THOUSANDS FLOCK TO SIBEBE ROCK FOR ADVENTURE, TOURISM AND CHARITY

By Tlalane Dlamini

MBABANE – Eswatini’s breathtaking Sibebe Rock came alive on 26 July 2026 as thousands of local and international hikers gathered for the 21st Sibebe Survivor Challenge, reaffirming the Kingdom’s growing reputation as one of Southern Africa’s leading adventure tourism destinations.

The annual charity hike, organised by the Rotary Club of Mbuluzi-Mbabane, transformed the iconic granite formation into a vibrant hub of outdoor adventure, wellness and community spirit. From seasoned hikers and corporate teams to families and first-time visitors, participants embraced the challenge while enjoying spectacular panoramic views and the natural beauty that makes Sibebe one of Eswatini’s most treasured attractions.

More than just a hiking event, the Sibebe Survivor Challenge continues to showcase the Kingdom’s rich eco-tourism offering, encouraging visitors to experience Eswatini’s diverse landscapes while contributing to meaningful community development.

This year’s event received a major boost from anchor sponsor Nedbank Eswatini, which contributed E500 000 towards the initiative, reinforcing its commitment to supporting both community development and sustainable tourism.

Rotary Club of Mbuluzi-Mbabane President Buyani Fakudze said every cent raised through the challenge is invested directly into charitable projects that improve lives across the country.

“The hidden element of this event is that all the proceeds go to charitable causes. None of it remains with the club,” he said.

Fakudze explained that the Rotary Club supports programmes aligned with Rotary International’s areas of focus, including maternal and child health, clean water and sanitation, education, youth development and environmental conservation.

He said the event has experienced remarkable growth since its inception, evolving from fewer than 500 participants into one of Eswatini’s flagship outdoor events.

“Today, we have to cap participation at 5 000 hikers because of environmental considerations,” he said.

“We now attract participants from across Eswatini and beyond our borders. It has become an international event, which is something we are proud of.”

The increasing popularity of the challenge continues to generate positive exposure for Eswatini as an adventure travel destination, encouraging visitors to explore the country’s spectacular mountains, hiking trails and natural attractions.

Nedbank Eswatini Managing Director Fikile Nkosi said the challenge is a powerful example of how outdoor tourism and philanthropy can create lasting social impact.

She revealed that last year’s event raised approximately E847 000, funding community projects ranging from maternity packs and healthcare improvements to rural water infrastructure, school rehabilitation and food assistance for vulnerable elderly people.

“Every great act of kindness begins with a single step,” she said.

“For some, the climb was about testing personal limits or spending time with friends, family and colleagues. For many others, those steps represented hope, dignity and opportunity.”

Nkosi added that the challenge also complements the bank’s Get Money Fit campaign by promoting resilience, discipline and long-term wellbeing.

She commended the Rotary Club of Mbuluzi-Mbabane, sponsors, volunteers and participants for sustaining the initiative for more than two decades, noting that it continues to demonstrate how tourism, conservation and community development can work hand in hand.

As one of Eswatini’s most anticipated outdoor events, the Sibebe Survivor Challenge continues to attract nature lovers, adventure seekers and photographers eager to experience the country’s dramatic landscapes while supporting a worthy cause.

The 22nd Sibebe Survivor Challenge is scheduled for August 1, 2027, offering another opportunity for visitors from across the region and beyond to discover the beauty of Sibebe Rock and experience the warmth, hospitality and adventure that define the Kingdom of Eswatini.