SOMHLOLO, LOBAMBA- The 2026 Imbube Marathon has received a major boost after securing sponsorships and partnerships valued at more than E2.7 million, as organisers officially launched this year’s partnership programme at Somhlolo National Stadium on Wednesday.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Principal Secretary Makhosini Mndawe said the overwhelming support from the corporate sector demonstrates growing confidence in the marathon, which has become one of Eswatini’s premier sporting events.
Mndawe also paid tribute to Eswatini Comrades Marathon Ambassador Khetsiwe Hlope, praising her for inspiring athletes and elevating the country’s athletics profile through her dedication and achievements.
He said the partnerships reaffirm the commitment made during the marathon’s official launch in April that the 2026 edition would be “bigger, better and more impactful” than previous years.
The event attracted strong backing from several corporate sponsors, with Standard Bank leading the cash sponsorships with E440,000, followed by Old Mutual Eswatini and Ubombo Sugar Limited, which each contributed E100,000. Other cash sponsors include Unifoods (E55,000), Industrial Development Company of Eswatini (E50,000), SPAR Eswatini (E20,000), Lactalis Eswatini (E15,000) and Balondolozi (E10,000), bringing total cash sponsorship to E790,000.
In addition, product and service partners contributed support valued at over E1.5 million, with Coca-Cola Eswatini serving as the marathon’s hydration partner, Paratus Eswatini providing connectivity services, and Eswatini Television Broadcasting Services coming on board as the official broadcast and media partner.
The marathon also introduced a new community partnership with Eco Manzini Solutions, a youth-led organisation that will provide waste management services during the event. Mndawe described the partnership as an example of how the marathon is creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs while promoting environmental sustainability.
Water point sponsorships worth more than E500,000 were also announced, with companies including FNB Eswatini, Stanlib Eswatini, Old Mutual Eswatini, Eswatini Mobile and several others committing to keeping runners hydrated while creating vibrant support stations along the route.
Looking ahead, organisers revealed ambitious plans to grow participation to 10,000 runners by the marathon’s 10th edition. Encouragingly, a single running club from KwaZulu-Natal has already confirmed that it will bring 120 athletes to compete in this year’s race, highlighting the event’s growing regional appeal and its potential to boost sports tourism in Eswatini.
The 8th edition of the Imbube Marathon will take place on 17 October 2026 at Somhlolo National Stadium. Organisers urged runners, schools, companies and clubs to register before 30 July, when the Early Bird registration period closes.
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