BUHLENI – Lidwala Insurance Company Managing Director (MD) Dr Thokozani Nkambule says the Lidwala Wellness Walk will play a key role in transforming Eswatini into a First-World nation.
Dr Nkambule mentioned this during his remarks yesterday at the fourth edition of the historic event.
More than 17 000 emaSwati came together with one common purpose: to celebrate life, promote wellness and demonstrate that a healthier nation is a stronger nation.
Dr Nkambule said the numbers exceeded every expectation.
“On behalf of the Board, Management and Staff of Lidwala Insurance Company, I extend our deepest appreciation to every participant. Whether you walked one kilometre or completed the entire route, you became an ambassador for healthy living and an advocate for a stronger Eswatini,” Dr Nkambule said.
He said at Lidwala Insurance, they believe that insurance is not only about paying claims after unfortunate events occur. It is equally about helping people prevent illness, improve their quality of life and invest in healthier lifestyles.
“The Wellness Walk is, therefore, much more than a corporate event—it is a national investment in prevention, physical activity, mental wellness, social interaction and community cohesion,” he said.
The decision to make participation free reflects the belief that wellness should never be a privilege reserved for a few, but that all emaSwati deserve the opportunity to pursue a healthier lifestyle regardless of economic circumstances.
“This initiative also aligns strongly with His Majesty King Mswati III’s vision of transforming Eswatini into a First-World Nation. A First-World nation is not defined only by infrastructure or economic prosperity. It is equally defined by healthy citizens, productive communities, social cohesion and people who care for one another,” the MD said.
He further noted that the Wellness Walk contributes meaningfully to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, while also advancing partnerships under SDG 17, reducing inequalities through inclusive participation under SDG 10 and promoting sustainable communities under SDG 11.
“I would also like to acknowledge and sincerely thank our parent company, the Inyatsi Group, for continuously supporting this initiative,” Nkambule added.
He said the Group’s vision of becoming Africa’s Leading Integrated Business Partner can only be achieved through people who live its values every day.
He expressed pride that throughout the planning and execution of the event, colleagues from across the group and the entire Lidwala Insurance team demonstrated the core values of Accountability, Agility, Commitment, Embracing Change and Teamwork.
“This event has shown what becomes possible when people work together with a shared purpose. I thank every member of staff, every volunteer and every colleague who sacrificed countless hours over many months to make today possible,” he said.
Dr Nkambule also thanked sponsors, transport operators and bus owners who generously availed their vehicles to ensure participants could travel safely.
“Allow me to extend special appreciation to the Ministry of Health, our strategic partner since the inaugural Wellness Walk four years ago. Your unwavering commitment has helped shape this initiative into the national wellness movement it has become today. Thank you for believing in this vision from the very beginning,” he added.
He acknowledged that the unprecedented turnout of more than 17 000 participants created operational pressures beyond the original planning assumptions.
