Manzini – The Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Force (UEDF) recruitment drive moved to Mkhiweni and Manzini North where hundreds of hopefuls still try their luck.
Nhlanhla Tsabedze (25), from Mnyenyweni outran everyone, yesterday, and has made it through the first phase of the army recruitment.
Mlamuli Dlamini (23), also from Mnyenyweni, was the second to cross the finish line. He says joining the army has long been his ambition, inspired by his father and uncle, who were also members of the army.
Sinethemba Magagula (20), from Mnyenyweni, blazed past the pack to become the first woman to cross the finish line in the 3.2km race at Manzini North Inkhundla. She expressed heartfelt thanks to her family for their steadfast support. She also credited her win to her coach, who is also a member of the UEDF. Magagula said her coach kept the fire burning even when many said the recruitment wouldn’t happen this year, encouraged her and her teammates to continue training.
Winisile Metiso (25), from Makholweni, was the second woman to cross the finish line, followed closely by Nosipho Dlamini (27) from Mangwaneni. The two will serve as female reserves, on standby in case anything affects the first-place finisher’s qualification.
On a lighter note, one army hopeful at Manzini North nearly missed his shot after officials questioned his ID he looked way younger in the photo than in person. Brigadier General Thabo Luhlanga had the final say, confirming it was indeed him, before joking: “Lona nguwe lokwa usemuhle mosi, pho yini inkinga?”
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