Army Commander impressed by youth turnout at 39th EUDF Recruitment Race
By Thokozani Mazibuko
The 39th edition of the Eswatini United Defence Force (EUDF) Army Recruitment Race drew massive crowds on Saturday, as hundreds of young people braved the heat and tough terrain in hopes of securing a place in the country’s military ranks.
The races, held simultaneously at Sithobelweni and Siphofaneni constituencies, attracted over 600 army hopefuls from each inkhundla, marking one of the biggest turnouts in recent years.
The event was graced by Army Commander Lieutenant General Mashikilisane Hulumende Fakudze, who expressed deep satisfaction with the enthusiasm and determination shown by the youth.
“I am very happy to see young people showing such strong interest in serving their country,” said Lt. Gen. Fakudze, addressing participants and spectators after the races.
“The EUDF values discipline, courage, and commitment and today’s turnout shows that our young citizens are ready to uphold those values.”
The Army Commander was accompanied by Siphofaneni Member of Parliament Nomalungelo Simelane, who commended the EUDF for reaching out to rural communities and giving the youth an opportunity to showcase their physical ability and patriotism.
“The army recruitment races have become a symbol of hope and inspiration for young people. They not only promote fitness and discipline but also give our youth a sense of purpose,” said MP Simelane.
This year’s recruitment races also highlighted the growing interest from school-going youth. Among the top performers were pupils from local high schools who defied the odds to compete against older and more experienced participants.
At Sithobelweni, Nomalungelo Shongwe, 18, a Form 4 pupil from Gundvwini High School, sprinted to victory in the ladies’ category, earning cheers from the crowd as she crossed the finish line with remarkable endurance and focus.
“I wanted to make my school proud and show that we young people can achieve great things if we put our minds to it,” Shongwe said, visibly moved after her win.
At Siphofaneni, Andile Siphephile Gwebu, 21, a Form 4 pupil from Mphumakudze High School, clinched the top spot in the women’s category, while Lethukuthula Ndlovu, 18, another Form 4 student from Gundvwini, impressed in the men’s division with a strong finish among the top runners.
A Form 2 pupil also stunned the crowd by winning one of the heats, earning applause from both military officials and spectators for his exceptional effort.
The EUDF recruitment races are part of the army’s nationwide campaign to identify and train potential recruits. Beyond the athletic competition, the races are designed to test physical fitness, mental strength, and endurance, key traits required for military service.
Lieutenant General Fakudze emphasized that the army remains committed to nurturing disciplined, patriotic young citizens who are ready to serve with integrity.
“The Defence Force stands for loyalty and service to the nation. We are proud to see this level of enthusiasm and dedication from our youth,” he said.
The atmosphere at both venues was festive, with families, teachers, and local leaders cheering on the competitors. The recruitment races have grown into community events that not only identify potential soldiers but also strengthen national pride and unity.
“These events show that Eswatini’s future is in capable hands,” said one teacher from Gundvwini High. “Our pupils are proving that they have the discipline and drive to represent the country.”
As the races concluded, hopefuls who qualified advanced to the next stage of medical and physical screening, moving a step closer to achieving their dream of joining the EUDF.
