KING GIFTS LIBUTFO E45M IMBASHA

His Majesty King Mswati III has gifted Libutfo a total of E45 million imbasha and 141 cows (tinkunzi) to be shared among the warriors following the completion of the weeding of the royal fields.

The gifts were announced by Indvuna Finyeza Mncina at Ngabezweni Royal Residence yesterday, shortly after the King dispersed Libutfo.

Addressing the warriors, His Majesty described this year’s Incwala as beautiful and enjoyable from start to finish, saying its success and splendour began with the commissioning of the water party ahead of the Little Incwala, continued through the cutting of Lusekwane, and culminated in the Main Incwala and the weeding of the royal fields.

The King noted that the rains experienced during the Incwala period were blessings from God, symbolising luck and prosperity, adding that the balance of rain and sunshine greatly enhanced the enjoyment of the ceremony.

Ingwenyama commended Ingaja for their enthusiasm and massive turnout, recalling that their numbers were so large that while some were still waiting to join the march, those at the front had already reached Siphumulweni en route to Esikhaleni seLusekwane.

He further recalled that Libutfo had been called upon to extend the royal kraal at Ludzidzini Royal Residence ahead of Incwala, but the overwhelming turnout required even further extension. He said this demonstrated the need for adequate space to allow everyone, including emajaha, Lutsango and Imbali, to fully participate in the ceremony.

Expressing admiration for the warriors, His Majesty said that when viewed from above, the lusekwane (sacred shrubs) looked like moving trees. He drew a comparison with Shakespeare’s Macbeth, where moving bushes were considered a miracle, noting that in Eswatini this was an annual reality and a testament to the country’s blessings and good fortune.

The King applauded Ingaja for their dedication, saying their turnout reflected a deep love for culture and tradition. He also thanked the nation for contributing to the ceremony, noting that the donations ensured Libutfo were well provided for as they celebrated with their King.

His Majesty further expressed appreciation for the presence of Libutfo labaMalume, saying they did not want to miss Incwala, which he described as a prayer for the entire nation.

The King then dispersed the thousands of warriors, who also received Tibiyo TakaNgwane branded calendars.

Announcing the gifts, Indvuna Finyeza Mncina instructed tindvuna from various chiefdoms that the King wanted confirmation that all regiments were fed, received their share of the meat, and that a report be submitted confirming that every warrior received their portion of the monetary gift.