‘Hunger, poverty almost killed me’ – winner
Nkomiyahlaba Inkhundla winner Bonginkhosi Stewart (24)
By Thokozani Mazibuko
Against all odds, 32-year-old Sipho Mamba from Nyakeni emerged victorious in the 3.2-kilometre army recruitment race held at Ekukhanyeni Inkhundla on Tuesday, securing his place in the next phase of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) recruitment drive.
Mamba, who works at Montigny Investments in Bhunya, revealed that the journey to this triumph has been marked by hardship and perseverance. “Hunger and poverty almost killed me. I am the breadwinner at home and life has been very tough,” he shared after the race.
“I thank His Majesty King Mswati III for granting us young people this opportunity. It gives us hope to work for our country and support our families.”
The seasoned athlete, who also runs with the His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) team, stumbled three times at the starting point but refused to give up. With determination, he powered through the challenge to finish first in front of a cheering crowd.
His victory highlighted not just his athletic endurance but also the resilience of many young emaSwati who view the recruitment as a doorway out of unemployment and poverty.
Runner-up secures his spot
Close behind was Ndumiso Sibandze (28), also from Nyakeni, who claimed second place in the hotly contested race. Sibandze’s strong performance ensured that he too advanced to the next stage of the army selection process.
The Ekukhanyeni recruitment race drew hundreds of hopefuls and spectators, with the atmosphere charged with anticipation and excitement.
The 3.2km race, a crucial part of the army’s recruitment procedure, continues to be one of the most competitive events in the national drive, testing both physical fitness and mental toughness.
For Mamba, this victory represents more than just athletic achievement. It symbolizes a chance at a brighter future. “Running today was not just about fitness, but survival. I ran with everything I had, because I knew this could change my life,” he said.
As the army recruitment process continues across constituencies, stories like Mamba’s are a reminder of the resilience, determination, and hope carried by many young emaSwati who see this opportunity as a lifeline.
