Africa-Press – Eswatini. Two aspiring soldiers from Lushikishini, Sifiso Ngcobo (33) and Benele Jele (30), will each receive E1 000 after successfully passing all stages of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) recruitment exercise, including medicals, as they prepare to undergo full army training.
The reward, announced by Lushikishini Umphakatsi Bucopho Mduduzi Motsa, is intended to assist the candidates with any needs as they transition into a permanent military career.
Ngcobo, who claimed first place in the men’s category, described the achievement as a milestone in his journey toward stability. “I’ve been working on and off, but this opportunity means I can finally find something permanent. I live with my sisters, and I’m happy that I am finally going to be able to properly take care of them,” he said. Having previously attempted recruitment, Ngcobo had been eliminated during the press-up stage, despite excelling in the running events. This time, however, his dedication and training paid off.
Jele, who came second, has endured years of unemployment, taking on piece jobs such as brick laying to survive. “Now I finally have the chance to provide for my parents,” he said, adding that he trained hard for a full year to improve his chances. Jele’s goal is to build a home for his aging parents, giving them dignity and security in their later years.
Motsa said the E1 000 reward was a token of appreciation for the candidates’ hard work and a motivation for others in the community. “They really showed us dedication and determination. This gesture is aimed at encouraging other young people to follow their example,” he said.
The Umphakatsi leader further explained that the success of Ngcobo and Jele could spur community development, as permanent employment opportunities create a ripple effect, benefiting families and the broader Lushikishini area. “This is a lesson to the youth that giving up is not an option. Their journey has just begun, and we wish them well as they continue with the recruitment process,” Motsa added.
The reward and recognition signal hope not only for the candidates’ personal futures but also for Lushikishini, demonstrating how perseverance and resilience can translate into tangible benefits for individuals and communities alike.
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