E50 000 for VOC Marathon

MANZINI – Yasuka Twe! Yesterday, the Voice of the Church (VOC) launched its third edition of the marathon at their offices in Manzini, with a substantial E50 000 sponsorship.

The event styled Yasuka Twe! was graced by the presence of VOC Chairperson Mandla Maduna, who emphasised the importance of mass participation in such initiatives.

He lamented the reported decline in the life expectancy of emaSwati and urged congregants and marathon enthusiasts to register and take part in large numbers, emphasising that their involvement would embody both their spiritual and physical well-being, ultimately contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

Maduna extended a warm invitation to all Christians across the country, expressing his desire for comprehensive representation and support.

He expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from pastors and emphasised the significance of holding such events at least quarterly.

Additionally, he encouraged individuals to lace up their running shoes and join the movement for a healthier lifestyle.

“I’m inviting all the Christian blocks in the country. If it were me, we would have a chairperson for the League of African Churches, Eswatini Conference of Churches and Council of Swaziland Churches; they should all be here. As we know this is the third edition of the marathon, I would like to express my gratitude for the support we have had and continue to have. To our pastors, we are grateful for your marshalling of congregants to take part holistically in such initiatives,” he said.

Zakhele Dlamini, who is the President of Athletics Eswatini (AE), emphasised the inclusivity of their sport, affirming that anyone can participate without specific talents or skills. He shared a verse from Timothy 1 Verse 8, underlining the importance of physical training and its alignment with both spiritual and physical well-being. He urged mass participation at the upcoming VOC Marathon on May 4 at Zakhele Sports Ground in Manzini, acknowledging the collaborative efforts with Zithande Athletics Club to ensure the success of such initiatives.

“The nice thing about our sport is that anyone can participate. You don’t need a certain talent because you are basically putting one foot in front of the other. It is unlike the other sports, the likes of football, which needs certain skills; everyone is able to participate in our sporting code,” Dlamini said.

Darius Dlomo, who is Eswatini Sport and Recreation Council (ESRC) Chief Executive Officer, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the benefits of physical activities for overall wellness and their alignment with the VOC Marathon’s holistic approach.

Maxwell Jele, CEO of Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA) expressed gratitude for the consistent progress of VOC and encouraged athletes from all corners of the country to participate in the marathon.