Mbabane – “We are going to be very strict with club licensing for the 2026 season,” Athletics Eswatini (AE) President Zakhele Dlamini declared during a press conference held yesterday at Sigwaca House, issuing a direct call to action for athletes, clubs and all stakeholders in the sport.
Dlamini said the federation is prioritising compliance as it prepares for future regulatory frameworks, including any potential requirements under the forthcoming Sports Act. “Every athlete must have a valid running licence, and that licence must come through an affiliated club. We want an organised sport that is ready for any regulatory changes,” he said.
The President urged athletes not yet linked to clubs to regularise their status. “Join a club. It simplifies the licensing process, and it ensures we maintain proper athlete records and competition standards,” he stressed, adding that vigilance from clubs will be key as AE strengthens its governance systems.
In the same briefing, Dlamini revealed an exciting development for the national road-running scene. “We are pleased to confirm that we will be partnering with the Times of Eswatini to introduce a Half Marathon to our calendar,” he announced. Shortly after the press conference, AE met with the newspaper to finalise collaboration plans for the new race.
He said full details of the Times of Eswatini Half Marathon will be unveiled at an upcoming launch event. “This is a major step in expanding our road-running programme. We want to grow the sport and create bigger opportunities for our athletes,” he said.
Dlamini concluded by reaffirming AE’s commitment to unity and progress within the athletics fraternity. “As we build towards 2026, we are moving together for gold.”
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