KWAZULU-NATAL DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICIALS GO THE DISTANCE TEAM CROSSES FINISH LINE AT COMRADES MARATHON

By: Nomty Ndlovu

• Five KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development officials successfully completed the 2026 Comrades Marathon.
• Ms Msawenkosi Nsibande achieved an impressive 31st position among 5,196 female participants.
• The team’s accomplishment demonstrates resilience, teamwork, and the Department’s commitment to health and wellness.

The Ultimate Human Race tested their grit, but five dedicated officials from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development proved they have what it takes. In a powerful display of discipline and endurance, the team successfully completed the gruelling 2026 Comrades Marathon, crossing the finish line well within the official cut-off time.

Representing the Department with distinction were Ms Msawenkosi Nsibande, Ms Thuthukile Hlophe, Ms Samukelisiwe Zungu, Mr Lucky Mdlalose, and Mr Nkosi Nzimande. Running the Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, these public servants traded their office chairs for running shoes, embodying the resilience they promote daily through their social development work.

For each official, the race was more than a physical challenge—it was a personal and professional triumph. Ms Msawenkosi Nsibande led the team with a composed and steady pace, finishing in an impressive 31st position out of 5,196 women who participated in the 2026 Comrades Marathon.

Ms Thuthukile Hlophe showcased remarkable determination, pushing through the demanding hills of Inchanga and Ashburton. Mr Nkosi Nzimande and Mr Lucky Mdlalose ran shoulder to shoulder for much of the race, motivating one another through the punishing middle kilometres.

Meanwhile, Ms Samukelisiwe Zungu, a first-time Comrades runner, demonstrated extraordinary spirit and perseverance, crossing the finish line at Scottsville in Pietermaritzburg during the final hour before the cut-off.

All five officials completed the 86-kilometre marathon before the final gun, earning their medals and securing a memorable achievement. Their accomplishment highlights the Department’s commitment to health, wellness, and leading by example.

“This was not just about running. It was about showing the communities we serve that we are committed, resilient, and determined to finish what we start. The Comrades tests your mind more than your legs. As social development workers, we face challenging situations every day. This marathon reminded us that perseverance pays off,” said Ms Nsibande.

KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development management has extended heartfelt congratulations to the team, describing them as ambassadors of endurance and hope. Their successful completion of the race serves as an inspiration to colleagues and communities alike.