Her Majesty the Indlovukazi yesterday urged the nation not to abandon its Siswati culture, but to cherish its language and identity.
In an address that resonated deeply with the Lutsango regiment and the broader nation, the Indlovukazi declared:
“Singalulahli lulwimi lwetfu, sihambenalo lolwetfu. Ngoba wonkhe umuntfu lokhona emhlabeni akabulahli buve bakhe.”
Translated, she said: “Do not throw away your mother tongue, hold it dear because every individual in the world does not abandon their true culture.”
Her Majesty emphasised that no matter where people travel or settle, they eventually return to their roots — often proudly wearing traditional attire that reflects their nationality.
“Even us as Emaswati, we should not lose our identity. We see how slowly but surely our children are losing it. We ought to teach them that: Buswati bakhe bukhutsalele,” she said.
She stressed the importance of actively teaching cultural values to younger generations to safeguard the nation’s identity.
The Indlovukazi highlighted the central role of language in preserving culture.
She reminded parents that English should serve only as a communication tool with others, not as a replacement for Siswati.
“Teach your children Siswati because you were also taught Siswati. Do not lead your children astray. This is not directed only to Lutsango, but to every Liswati here and at home,” she warned.
Her message was punctuated with the traditional call: Phezukomkhono!
Beyond cultural preservation, Her Majesty praised the health and wellbeing of the attendees, noting that hypertension and related illnesses had been kept at bay for the day.
She commended the large turnout, particularly of women, describing the event as a resounding success and expressing hope that the upcoming Buganu Festival at Hlane would be equally splendid.
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The Indlovukazi also expressed delight at the abundance of tetfulo (gifts) presented to Their Majesties. Some of the agricultural produce, she noted, were unfamiliar to her, yet she celebrated the dedication shown by Emaswati in farming.
“If Emaswati rose and dedicated themselves to farming, the country would not be affected by hunger. Already, the Hhohho region is green, as the famous saying goes: ‘Lubombo lubovu lumankelenkele,’” she observed.
Her Majesty’s address underscored a powerful call to cultural pride, unity and self-reliance.
She reminded the nation that preserving language, tradition and farming practices is a shared responsibility — one that must be carried forward for generations to come.
