Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Times of Eswatini Group of Newspapers has taken a bold and historic step towards nation-building with the official launch of its inaugural Times Half Marathon, a landmark sporting event aimed at promoting health, unity and community development across the Kingdom.
The event, themed “Your Race, Your Pace”, was officially unveiled on Friday, 6 February 2026, at Ramblas Restaurant in Mbabane. Ramblas Restaurant is one of the sponsors of the event. The half marathon is scheduled to take place on 23 May 2026 along the scenic Ezulwini–Lobamba corridor, an area rich in cultural, historical and economic significance.
The launch attracted high-profile stakeholders from government, sport, local authorities and the private sector, highlighting the national importance of the initiative. Among those in attendance were Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima, Eswatini National Sports and Recreation Council (ENSRC) Chief Executive Officer Darius Dlomo, Athletics Eswatini President Zakhele Dlamini, Ezulwini Town Council CEO Mathokoza Shongwe and E-Mali CEO Nozipho Dlamini.
Speaking at the launch, Times of Eswatini Managing Editor Thobeka Manyathela described the marathon as a groundbreaking initiative in the newspaper’s 129-year history, marking a transition from reporting on national issues to actively contributing to solutions that improve the quality of life for emaSwati.
Times of Eswatini Managing Director Martin Dlamini said the marathon reflects the organisation’s commitment to building a healthier and more productive nation. He highlighted that for more than a century, the Times of Eswatini has played a vital role in informing, educating and uplifting communities through journalism and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
“Now we are ready to take things a step further, quite literally, by encouraging people to take charge of their health and wellbeing,” Dlamini said. “This marathon is not just a race; it is an investment in preventive healthcare, social cohesion and national productivity.”
The Times Half Marathon will feature three race categories: a 21-kilometre half marathon, a 10-kilometre run, and a 5-kilometre fun run, ensuring inclusivity for participants of all ages and fitness levels. Nearly 60 prizes, with total prize money amounting to E50 000, will be up for grabs, including awards for veterans, masters, juniors and special categories such as best-dressed runner and largest team.
Registration for the event opens on Saturday, 7 February 2026, and will be conducted via the E-Mali platform, ensuring a seamless, secure and accessible registration process. E-Mali CEO Nozipho Dlamini encouraged the public to register early and praised the partnership as an example of how digital financial solutions can support national initiatives.
Ezulwini Town Council CEO Mathokoza Shongwe welcomed the decision to host the marathon in Ezulwini, noting that the town is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. She said the event aligns with the town’s vision of promoting a clean, scenic and healthy environment that enhances quality of life.
Athletics Eswatini President Zakhele Dlamini expressed confidence that the marathon will strengthen the country’s athletics calendar and contribute to the development of competitive runners capable of representing Eswatini at regional and international levels.
ENSRC CEO Darius Dlomo emphasised that sport plays a critical role in building an active society, improving productivity and nurturing national pride. He recalled Eswatini’s legacy of producing athletes who have competed on the international stage and said initiatives such as the Times Half Marathon help revive that spirit.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Bongani Nzima commended the Times of Eswatini for its leadership in promoting wellness through sport. He said the theme “Your Race, Your Pace” powerfully reinforces inclusivity, reminding citizens that participation, not competition, is the heart of the event.
The minister highlighted the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease, noting that physical activity initiatives are essential investments in preventive healthcare. He further emphasised the mental, emotional and social benefits of sport, including resilience, discipline and stress management.
Beyond health, Minister Nzima pointed out that the marathon will serve as an economic catalyst for the Ezulwini–Lobamba corridor, benefiting accommodation providers, transport operators, small traders and local businesses.
He concluded by praising the collaboration between government, the private sector, sporting bodies and the media, expressing hope that the Times Half Marathon will grow into a flagship national event that unites emaSwati and tells countless stories of determination, resilience and achievement.
With strong partnerships, a clear vision and an inclusive approach, the inaugural Times Half Marathon is poised to become a lasting symbol of a healthier, more united Eswatini.
