MBABANE – The clock is ticking for runners hoping to secure early admission into Eswatini’s biggest running event, the Imbube Marathon.
Aspiring participants have until Monday, June 30 to beat the early registration deadline.The majestic race, set to take centre stage on October 18, 2025 at Somhlolo National Stadium, offers various distances: 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km. Entry fees for these events currently range from E260 to E315. A special 3.3km category is also available with free entry.
Runners who miss the June 30 early registration deadline will incur an additional E50 fee for registrations made between July 1 and August 30. The final registration window will be open from September 1 to October 3, but this comes with a E100 penalty. Registration will officially close on October 3, 2025, or once the event reaches its capacity, whichever comes first.
Organised by the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF), the Imbube Marathon is a cornerstone annual running event in the country. It is renowned for its commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering community spirit and boosting tourism within the kingdom.
The marathon actively encourages healthy lifestyle choices among the Eswatini population and is a key driver in the development of athletics, aiming to identify local talent.
crucial
As a World Athletics-certified event, it serves as a crucial qualifier for international competitions, including the prestigious Comrades Marathon.
The event significantly raises Eswatini’s international profile, drawing participants from across the globe and contributing substantially to the local economy. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in participation from athletes with disabilities, highlighting the marathon’s inclusive design.
The Imbube Marathon route presents a varied terrain, incorporating both tar and dirt roads, and is famous for its challenging sections, most notably Malagwane Hill, a significant ascent that tests even the most seasoned runners. Participants can expect hydration and water stations approximately every three kilometres, with toilet facilities available every five kilometres.
Comprehensive medical support, including personnel and rapid response vehicles, will be stationed along the route and at the start/finish lines. Participants frequently praise the event for its excellent organisation, festive atmosphere, stunning scenery and highly-supportive volunteers.
Founded by His Majesty King Mswati III, the first Imbube Marathon took place in 2015 and has since grown steadily in popularity, attracting thousands of athletes annually. The decision to move the 2025 race day to a Saturday aims to provide runners, particularly international participants, with a well-deserved rest day.
In all previous editions, it was staged on the first Sunday of October.
The 2025 edition of the Imbube Marathon has already secured over E800 000 in sponsorship, with Standard Bank confirmed as the platinum sponsor.
EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Venue: Somhlolo National Stadium
Distances:
- 42.2km (Full Marathon) – Start time: 5:30am
- 21.1km (Half Marathon) – Start time: 6am
- 10km – Start time: 6am
- 3.3km (Fun Run) – Start time: 6am
Registration:
- Early bird: April 1 to June 30, 2025 (current period)
- Mid-registration: July 1 to August 30, 2025 (with E50 penalty)
- Late Registration: September 1 to October 3, 2025 (with E100 penalty)
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