EZULWINI – At Happy Valley Hotel, officials unveiled the 2026 Imbube Marathon, with government positioning the race as a catalyst to elevate Eswatini’s growing sports tourism ambitions.
The eighth edition of the Imbube Marathon, hosted by the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF), was officially launched yesterday, with a bold declaration of its role beyond athletics.
Among notable attendees were Athletics Eswatini (AE) President Zakhele ‘TZD’ Dlamini and Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Under Secretary Mzwandile Mthethwa.
Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima, speaking on behalf of his Labour and Social Security counterpart Phila Buthelezi, confirmed that Eswatini’s premier road race will be staged on October 17, 2026, starting at Somhlolo National Stadium.
Nzima struck a forward-looking tone, positioning the marathon as a key driver of sports tourism and national development.
“It is a historic milestone, coinciding with the 40th Jubilee of our beloved Kingdom of Eswatini. The Imbube Marathon is more than a race. It is a vital part of our national strategy to ignite a spirit of fitness across every corner of Eswatini,” he said.
He emphasised that the event also plays a role in addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
More pointedly, Nzima expressed the marathon’s growing significance as an international showcase.
“This marathon is not merely about running. It is a powerful platform that showcases the richness and potential of our kingdom. It highlights the potential of Eswatini to serve as a destination for sports tourism,” he said.
He added that alignment between public and private sectors could deliver outcomes that resonate far beyond our borders.
Meanwhile, ENPF Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Futhi Tembe confirmed the race retains its global standing.
“I am proud to affirm that the race maintains its World Athletics accreditation. This means times recorded are recognised globally. We remain a primary qualifier of the Comrades Marathon,” she said.
Tembe added that the event continues to attract elite athletes who view Eswatini as a serious destination for professional distance running.
She also revealed that partnerships with sponsors and official hydration partners would be announced in due course, promising professional timing, world-class medals and a safe race environment.
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The Imbube Marathon 2026 was officially launched at the Happy Valley Hotel yesterday by Minister for Sports,Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima. (Pic: Ntombikayise Gwebu)