Prayer, fasting earned me first place – Winner

By Thokozani Mazibuko

For 27-year-old Khethukuthula Mdluli from Buseleni, victory didn’t come from sheer physical strength alone it was faith, fasting, and unshakeable belief that carried her to first place in the army recruitment race held at Nkwene Inkhundla.

Tears streamed down her face as she crossed the finish line ahead of dozens of determined competitors, each fighting for a dream that could change their lives forever. For Mdluli, this was more than a race it was the culmination of weeks of prayer and spiritual preparation.

“I told myself that I would not rely only on my body but on God’s strength,” she said, her voice trembling with emotion. “I fasted, I prayed, and I asked God to guide my steps. Today, I am living proof that faith and endurance can take you places you never imagined.”

The Nkwene recruitment exercise drew hundreds of hopefuls from across the Shiselweni region, all competing for a chance to join the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF).

The competition was intense, with participants battling scorching heat, fatigue, and anxiety as they tackled the challenging course.
For Mdluli, however, the journey to victory began long before the starting whistle.

She revealed that she spent the past two weeks in spiritual preparation fasting, meditating, and maintaining a strict training routine.

“Every morning I woke up before sunrise to train, and before every session I prayed. I told myself that if this is God’s will, then no obstacle would stand in my way,” she explained.

As she crossed the finish line to thunderous applause, spectators described her as “a woman on a mission.” Fellow competitors praised her discipline and humility, saying she remained calm and encouraging throughout the race.

Local leaders at the event also commended the spirit of determination shown by all participants. An army official on site, speaking anonymously, said Mdluli’s performance stood out not just for her pace but for her composure and positive attitude.

“You could see she was not just running to win she was running with purpose,” the official said. “That kind of mindset is what we look for in the force. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about character.”

As the recruitment process continues into the next phases of assessment, medical evaluation, and interviews, Mdluli says she remains grounded and prayerful.

“Winning the race was one step,” she said. “Now I have to keep the same faith and energy for the next rounds. I know the journey isn’t over yet.”

Her story has already inspired many young people in Nkwene and beyond, proving that perseverance, discipline, and belief can transform even the most uncertain path into triumph.

As she left the race grounds surrounded by friends and family, her final words summed up the day perfectly:

“I ran with faith and God ran with me.”

Would you bet on faith and endurance getting her to the final round?