Ubombo Sugar Limited (USL) has fulfilled its promise by returning to Mkhalamfene Mountain with over 3,500 hikers to raise money for a second 5,000-litre water tank.
The challenging 4km hike from the foot to the summit of Mkhalamfene took place on Saturday morning, repeating last year’s event, which resulted in the nearby community of Nkilongo, California (Big Bend), receiving its first 5,000-litre tank.
The hike united employees, community members, private-sector representatives, development partners, and government officials in support of a cause that directly impacts pupils who climb the mountain daily to attend school at the summit.
The day included the hike, networking opportunities, refreshment stalls, and exhibitions by participating companies.
Speaking to this publication after the hike and aerobic session on behalf of USL Managing Director Muzi Siyaya, Head of Corporate Affairs Leonard Ndzimandze said the event was evolving into a national occasion supported by both private and public sectors.
“The hike is part of our Thriving Communities initiative under USL’s long-standing corporate social investment programme,” Ndzimandze said. “We are part of this region, so we have to care for the community because this community cares for us as Ubombo Sugar. In 2024, we responded to the community’s need for clean drinking water.
We have children, young adults, and the elderly who climb this steep mountain daily to go to school, seek healthcare in neighbouring South Africa, or reach places of employment — many walk long distances of up to four kilometres or more.”
Ndzimandze explained that funds raised through the 2024 initiative were used to purchase the first 5,000-litre tank, positioned at the mountain’s base so individuals can access water before starting their ascent. “The response to the clean water has been overwhelming,” he said. “This year, 2025, we have donated a second water tank, which we placed right beside the first.”
He added that the funds for the water tanks were raised through the participation and contributions of over 3,500 hikers.
“We hope that in 2026 we will be able to donate a toilet block to the area, because there is currently no proper sanitation. Reports indicate that people are relieving themselves in nearby bushes, which is unacceptable. With support from other companies taking part in the walk, we aim to rebuild a toilet,” he said.
“Additionally, we want to thank our peer educators for organising tents, water points, braais, and the logistics on the ground. Their community work is invaluable as they are volunteers.”
This year’s hike also attracted new corporate participants, including Websters, Robson, and two of Ubombo Sugar’s Small Grower associations.
Ndzimandze also acknowledged companies that brought the largest groups, such as Crooks with 155 participants, the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office with 85, Eclipse (a contractor at Ubombo) with 80, Robinsons with 69, and the CTA with about 45. Participants came from across the country, including Mbabane, Manzini, and Nhlangano.
Representing the Lubombo Regional Administrator, Themba Msibi, was Lubombo Member of Parliament (MP), Futhi Ngcamphalala, who praised USL’s community initiatives.
“Ubombo Sugar is a large company, and because of them, this event has grown from a regional to a national one,” she said. “The event is helping to bring the community together and improve local lives. We support Ubombo Sugar’s efforts and encourage other companies to do the same. Ubombo is not only focused on making money but also on supporting the community, and I encourage everyone to join and participate in future events.”