The main day of the Incwala ceremony drew a huge crowd of young people, with maidens, Ingaja and members of the public flocking in large numbers to Ludzidzini Royal Residence.
The youth expressed great enthusiasm for the cultural event, with many indicating that it was their first time attending the momentous ceremony.
They did not only attend as spectators but actively participated, with some joining traditional dances inside the cattle byre (sibaya).
Several maidens interviewed said they attended the ceremony to gain first-hand experience and deepen their understanding of Swati culture.
Noxolo Nhleko said she had never attended Incwala before and was delighted to be part of the ceremony this year.
“I wanted to see and understand what really happens during the main day of Incwala,” she said.
Another maiden, Senanile Mayisela, also a first-time attendee, said she was excited to be among the participants at the vibrant event, where she even danced alongside Their Majesties.
Mayisela said the experience had inspired her to attend the ceremony again next year.
Thrilled by tradition
Some maidens said they were thrilled to see Indvuna yeMbali Bongiwe “Vivane” Hlatshwako perform live, while others marvelled at the rare sight of members of the royal family in attendance, describing the moment as unforgettable.
Meanwhile, Ingaja Umbutfo Dudusi said he took part in cutting the sacred shrub (lusekwane), noting that the experience strengthened his appreciation of Swati culture.
He added that the cash gift from His Majesty King Mswati III motivated many Ingaja, particularly those from impoverished backgrounds, to continue participating in the cultural ceremony.
Despite the scorching sun, throngs of citizens gathered at Ludzidzini Royal Residence to witness and take part in the main Incwala ceremony alongside Their Majesties.
Inside the cattle byre, His Majesty actively participated in traditional dances together with various regiments, creating a colourful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
Security and protocol observed
Strict security and protocol were observed throughout the event. Before entering the cattle byre, attendants underwent security checks.
Women and girls wearing earrings, rings or other jewellery were advised to remove them before entry into sibaya.
Those not wearing emagcebesha or traditional necklaces were not allowed into the cattle byre, while the use of cellphones was strictly prohibited.
Also in attendance were Prime Minister Russell Dlamini, Cabinet ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs), who joined the nation in observing one of the country’s most significant cultural ceremonies.
Diplomats, including Taiwan’s Ambassador to Eswatini Jeremy Liang and United Nations representative George Wachira, were among those present to witness the main Incwala ceremony.
