Africa-Press – Eswatini. Families, friends, and community members from across northern Eswatini are preparing to participate in the 9th Annual Gobolondlo Mountain Hike, a 14.66 kilometre trek organised by Vusumnotfo.
The event aims to motivate healthy living, raise environmental awareness, and generate funds to support community programmes across 17 rural communities. Vusumnotfo Board Chair Mandla Mncina said the hike is guided by two principles. The first – planning and management equals respect – requires participants to purchase tickets in advance by April 30.
This is to ensure that Vusumnotfo can prepare adequately for a smooth experience. Hikers are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, with refill stations available along the trail to reduce waste.
The second principle – everyone is equal on the mountain – is reflected in the flexible start time between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. There is no formal opening programme, allowing participants to begin at their own pace. “There is a time and place for protocol, and there is a time to remember our common humanity,” Mncina said. “When people from all walks of life hike Gobolondlo Mountain as equals, it reminds us that we all have something to offer. By working together for the common good, we can achieve sustainable development for future generations.”
Funds raised from the hike supports Vusumnotfo’s work to reverse the negative cycle of dependency- by strengthening child development and learning practices in the 17 Swazi communities that formed Vusumnotfo.
Their activities focus on improving inclusive parenting and teaching practices at family and commuity preschool level; improving financial and nutrition practices at family level; and improving infrastructure and management practices at community level with a focus on community preschools, water and sanitation systems and hygiene and conservation practices.
Vusumnotfo’s vision – 17 Swazi communities, willing and able to improve their environmental, social and economic conditions i.e. Parenting for a Sustainable FutureTM.
Tickets are available in two categories: Early Bird, available until March 31, 2026, at SZL 170 per person, and General, from April 1 to 30, at SZL 180 per person. Early bird groups of 10 or more also receive free branding on their T-shirts. Each ticket covers entry, T-shirt, light refreshments, and access to raffle draws. Participants will park about one kilometre from Piggs Peak Hotel and Casino, with directions provided after payment.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
1. Mobile Money – Sbongile Kunene 7694 4143 (to verify Mobile Money)
2. Cash at Vusumnotfo (Call for directions)
3. Cash – Zanele Dlamini 7615 2185 at Piggs Peak, Puma Filling Station
4. Bank Tranfer – email: [email protected] for transfer details, or call +268 7624 827
