MBABANE – The Times of Eswatini will host its inaugural Half Marathon in May 2026, marking the first time in the 129-year history of the newspaper that it has organised a sporting event, according to a report by InsideBiz.
The launch event in Ezulwini was attended by Minister of Sports, Culture, and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima; Chief Executive Officer of the Eswatini National Sports and Recreation Council (ENSRC), Darius Dlomo; Athletics Eswatini President Zakhele Dlamini; Ezulwini Town Council CEO Mathokoza Shongwe; and e-Mali CEO Nozipho Dlamini. Government officials, sporting bodies, sponsors, and partners also participated, signalling the national significance of the event.
Minister Nzima described the Half Marathon as a unifying initiative. “This is not just a race for elite athletes. It is an inclusive platform for everyone, young and old, beginners and experienced runners, to participate at their own pace,” he said. “Initiatives like this are critical to building a healthier nation and addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.”
The event will feature a 21km half-marathon, a 10km run, and a 5km fun run, designed to encourage broad participation, particularly among young people and families.
Times of Eswatini Managing Director Martin Dlamini said the race represents a major milestone for the newspaper, established in 1897. “For over a century, the Times of Eswatini has played its role by providing information, shaping national conversations, and supporting social uplift through CSI initiatives. Today, we are taking that contribution a step further, quite literally, by helping build a healthier nation through sports,” he said.
Dlamini noted that the Half Marathon aligns with His Majesty King Mswati III’s vision of a productive, healthy, and innovative population. “This race is about more than running. It is about accountability for our health, embracing change, teamwork, and commitment, values that are essential not only on race day, but in everyday life,” he said.
The event is expected to generate economic benefits for the Lobamba-Ezulwini corridor, boosting activity for accommodation providers, transport operators, restaurants, fuel stations, street vendors, and local traders. Minister Nzima said the event could also position Eswatini as a destination for regional sports tourism. “A half-marathon is not only a sporting event; it is also an economic driver. This initiative has the potential to grow year after year, placing Eswatini firmly on the regional athletics map,” he said.
Athletics Eswatini has added the Times Half Marathon to the 2026 national athletics calendar. President Zakhele Dlamini confirmed that the event meets all regulatory and safety requirements, with plans to eventually certify it as a qualifying platform for international competitions.
The Half Marathon will use digital technology in partnership with e-Mali to facilitate registration and on-site payments. “Cashless payments are no longer a luxury; they are essential to economic competitiveness,” said e-Mali CEO Nozipho Dlamini, noting that agents and vendors will be available to assist participants.
Nearly 60 prizes, including junior, masters, veterans, early-bird, and novelty categories such as best-dressed runner, will be awarded, with total prize money of E50,000.
Dlamini encouraged EmaSwati from all walks of life to join. “This is your race, your pace, and your story. Registration opens tomorrow, and we invite everyone to be part of this historic moment,” he said.
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