PRINCESS SAKHIZWE CALLS FOR HERITAGE TO BE EXPERIENCED, PROTECTED AND PASSED ON

MLAWULA– HRH Princess Sakhizwe has called on emaSwati to become active custodians of the country’s natural and cultural heritage, urging families to ensure that future generations do more than admire heritage from afar, but instead experience it, protect it and pass it on.

The Princess made the remarks at the conclusion of the fourth edition of the Khabane Cave Explorer Walk, held at Mlawula Nature Reserve on Sunday, where more than 400 participants gathered to celebrate nature, adventure and Eswatini’s rich heritage.

Addressing hikers, families, community members, government officials and partners after the challenging trail, Princess Sakhizwe said the event’s growing popularity reflected a deepening appreciation for Eswatini’s historical and environmental treasures.

“Let us teach our children that heritage is not something to admire from a distance. It is something to experience, to protect and pass on,” she said.

She noted that participants had travelled from different communities and backgrounds, united by a shared love for nature, adventure and the Kingdom’s heritage. According to the Princess, the strong turnout demonstrated that Eswatini’s heritage remains vibrant when people come together to celebrate, learn and appreciate it.

Princess Sakhizwe also highlighted the growing significance of the Khabane Cave Explorer Walk, recalling that the initiative received royal endorsement earlier this year when His Majesty King Mswati III officially launched the newly developed trail during a hike in March.

She said the King’s participation elevated the importance of the event and reinforced Eswatini’s commitment to conservation, tourism development and cultural preservation.

The Princess encouraged participants to view the hike as more than just completing a physical challenge, but as a meaningful journey connecting present-day emaSwati with generations that came before them.

She congratulated every participant, regardless of age or hiking experience, saying each walker’s presence reflected courage, determination and love for the Kingdom. Whether they completed the trail quickly or at a slower pace, she said, every participant deserved recognition.

Princess Sakhizwe paid tribute to parents who introduced their children to nature through the walk, young people whose enthusiasm inspired others, elders who shared wisdom along the journey, and volunteers and organisers who worked tirelessly to keep participants safe throughout the event.

She also applauded those who encouraged fellow walkers when the trail became physically demanding, describing the event as a reflection of community spirit and shared purpose.

In recognising the collaborative effort behind the success of the event, Princess Sakhizwe extended appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the Lubombo Regional Administrator, the Eswatini National Trust Commission, the Rotary Club of Matsapa, corporate sponsors, development partners, surrounding communities, members of the media and all those who contributed behind the scenes.

She said the Khabane Cave Explorer Walk had grown into an important national platform because it successfully brings together wellness, adventure tourism, cultural appreciation, environmental conservation and community development.

Princess Sakhizwe added that walking through the reserve reminds participants that Eswatini’s heritage is not hidden away from daily life, but lives in the landscapes, stories and traditions that continue to shape the nation.

As the Khabane Cave Explorer Walk continues to attract more participants each year, the event is increasingly positioning itself as one of Eswatini’s standout heritage and eco-tourism experiences — celebrating not only the country’s natural beauty, but also the importance of preserving it for generations to come.