The fourth edition of the Khabane Cave Explorer Walk is set for June 28, spotlighting the archaeological importance and economic potential of Eswatini’s heritage sites.
Reading Time: 2 minutes The fourth edition of the Khabane Cave Explorer Walk will be held on June 28.. The initiative is organised by the Rotary Club of Matsapha in partnership with the Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC).. Launching the Explorer Walk, Princess Sakhizwe, the country’s ambassador for local economic growth, said Khabane Cave was a global treasure of archaeological significance.. According to the princess, recent excavations at Khabane had unearthed thousands of Middle Stone
Age stone tools, alongside pristine botanical remains, ancient leaves, twigs and biological samples that offered an unparalleled insight into the palaeo-environment of the Southern African region.. “Our natural and cultural heritage sites are the original ‘Made in Eswatini’ products.. They are unique to us, they are authentic and they are irreplaceable,” said Princess Sakhizwe.. She said developing sustainable tourism around sites such as Khabane was not only about preserving rocks and artefacts, but also about
creating value for local communities.. “We are driving economic growth, empowering our youth with knowledge of their past and attracting the world to experience the beauty of our kingdom,” she said.. The princess added that by appreciating, carefully managing and marketing such sites to the world, the country would be building a stronger and more self-reliant Eswatini.. She called on the nation to take collective responsibility for preserving this legacy, ensuring that the fourth edition
of the walk became another milestone in a long and vibrant history of national preservation.. Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane said when the initiative was first conceptualised, it was merely a vision; a bold aspiration to combine the physical demands of adventure with the critical and non-negotiable importance of environmental stewardship, cultural heritage preservation and the socio-economic empowerment of rural communities.. Mkhonta-Simelane said four years later, the event had evolved from a
modest gathering into a flagship feature on the country’s national tourism calendar.. She said Princess Sakhizwe, as a dedicated and distinguished brand ambassador, had worked tirelessly to place the event on the global map.. “Her Royal Highness embodies the very spirit of our nation, grace, resilience and a deep, intrinsic connection to the land and its ancient history,” said the minister.. She added that the princess’s involvement had bridged the gap between the country’s rich
traditional heritage and the modern tourism sector, ensuring that the Khabane legacy was celebrated with the dignity, seriousness and excitement it deserved.. The minister said the princess brought not only prestige to the platform, but also a genuine and informed passion for environmental and cultural preservation that challenged everyone to become better custodians of the nation’s heritage.. She added that Princess Sakhizwe was a testament to the fact that leadership was found in service and
that her patronage of the walk had been the catalyst for its significant growth.. Representing the Rotary Club of Matsapha, President Bahle Xaba said the Khabane Cave Walk presented a unique opportunity to uplift surrounding communities by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.. Xaba said from local guides and small businesses to cultural exhibitions and hospitality services, the initiative enabled communities to actively participate in and benefit from eco-tourism.. “This is the essence of Rotary, creating opportunities
that are not only impactful, but also sustainable and community-driven,” she said.. NOW READ | I cannot afford E15 000 bail – Mechanic