By Inside Biz
The Lubombo Mountain Hike, an annual event organised by the dedicated employees of Ubombo Sugar Limited (USL), successfully drew throngs of participants on Saturday, July 13, 2024.
Braving the low winter temperatures, participants began the hike as early as 6:30 AM, starting from the new location at Mkhalamfene. Previously, the hike took place at another part of the Lubombo Mountain strip.
The trail, known for its challenging steep climb, rewarded hikers with scenic views of the surrounding hills, rivers, dams, and sugarcane fields, adding excitement to the day. Moreover, the new location provided an opportunity to build relationships with more communities under Nkilongo Inkhundla.
USL has found an engaging and effective way to give back to the community by organising outdoor events like the Lubombo Mountain Hike. This initiative not only raises funds for community-focused charity initiatives under the theme “Changing Lives, One Community at a Time,” but also brings together various people, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration.
Outdoor activities like hiking encourage team bonding, improve communication, and boost morale, all of which contribute to a more cohesive and productive work environment. Moreover, such initiatives demonstrate the company’s commitment to employee wellness and corporate social responsibility, further strengthening the organisational culture
Commitment to Community Welfare
Leonard Ndzimandze, Head of Corporate Affairs at USL, speaking on behalf of the company’s Managing Director, Muzi Siyaya, emphasised their commitment to aiding surrounding communities, acknowledging that the company operates and lives among them, and were thus aware of their needs.
He mentioned that this year, the hike moved from the upper side of Lubombo Mountain, where it usually takes place, to the southern side of the Mkhalamfene area to get closer to more communities neighbouring USL.
“Coming here, we have realised that there is a lot that still needs to be done, and we see the need to come back in the future,” said Ndzimandze.
He invited more companies to participate in this event in the future, emphasising that the funds raised would benefit the communities.
Donation of Water Tank
This year, the company recognised the plight of students who climb the mountain daily to reach their school at the top of the mountain. Some children from the Mkhalamfene area and from as far as Big Bend and surrounding areas walk for about 4 kilometres to attend school at the top of the Lubombo Mountain, along the border between Eswatini and South Africa.
To support these students, USL, through this employee initiative, donated a 5000-litre water tank which was placed at the bottom of the hill, ensuring that the children would access clean water and prevent dehydration.
The tank, purchased with funds from last year’s hiking event, will also benefit the local community in general.
Ndzimandze further thanked the participating companies, organizations, and the community, as well as the Wellness Champions, who played a key role in the event’s success.
“This event would never be possible without our dedicated team of Wellness Champions. We are very proud of the work that you put in day and night. We acknowledge the dedication, and we are proud of the results, considering that it is the first time we have come to this area.”
Commitment to Fostering Thriving Communities
USL is dedicated to building thriving, resilient communities, which it considers intrinsically linked to the company’s success, productivity, safety, and sustainability. Guided by the Illovo Thriving Community Purpose, USL believes in adding value to the communities in which it operates through various development initiatives.
Presentation of Awards
Key activities of the event included the presentation of awards to some of the participants as a symbol of appreciation for their continuous support towards the event.
Notable awards and winners included:
• Largest Group: Crookes Plantations
• Second Largest Group: ESWADE
• Third Largest Group: DPM’s Office
• Early Bird Registration: Bholi Clinic, Team Ndzevane NDZ, and Sithobela Health Centre
The event enjoyed widespread support, drawing representatives from various sectors. Attendees included individuals from the private sector and various government ministries such as the Lubombo Regional Administrator’s Office, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, and the DPM’s Office.
This broad representation highlighted the business community as well as the government’s commitment to community development and USL’s initiatives. UN agencies and NGOs also participated, reflecting the event’s alignment with broader developmental goals.
The presence of schoolchildren from neighbouring schools further fostered a sense of community and collective effort.
In addition to hiking, the event offered networking opportunities and refreshments, with participants enjoying braais. Companies also exhibited and marketed their products at the starting point arena, which featured gazebos.
After the hike, participants engaged in aerobics, allowing them to stretch their aching limbs. Employee-driven Initiative This initiative showcases the dedication and spirit of volunteerism among USL employees, particularly the Wellness Champions.