Thousands of Ingaja and Libutfo poured out in song and motion yesterday, marching more than 10 kilometres to cut the sacred shrub (Lusekwane) in one of the most powerful moments of the Incwala Ceremony.
According to estimates from the Ministry of Home Affairs, participation surpassed 80,000, marking what some described as a record-breaking turnout.
The historic march followed the official commissioning by His Majesty King Mswati III, who dispatched Ingaja in accordance with Incwala custom. The ceremony marked the 15th day, signalling that the sacred proceedings had entered their final and most demanding stages.
The commissioning took place early in the afternoon, releasing a sea of eager participants, who were visibly ready for the task ahead.
Clad in full regalia and carrying their dancing sticks, Ingaja and regiments moved as one, walking, singing and chanting in perfect rhythm. Their excitement was unmistakable, their voices rising and falling in unison as they advanced with purpose.
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The sheer scale of the procession was breathtaking with a long, flowing line of participants stretching as far as the eye could see.
“We are still consolidating figures through our electronic division,” said Ministry of Home Affairs Communications Officer Mlandvo Dlamini. “However, just by observing the procession, I can confidently say the numbers were above 80,000 when all regiments are included.”
He attributed the overwhelming turnout to the deep love Emaswati have for their King, noting that participation in Incwala remains one of the strongest expressions of national loyalty and unity.
Minister of Home Affairs Princess Lindiwe echoed the sentiment, describing the scene as heartwarming and deeply affirming. She said she was particularly struck by the increased number of Ingaja this year.
“As we observed the groups leaving the royal residence, it became clear there was no end to it,” she said.
“The numbers of Ingaja appear to have doubled. Emaswati have shown that they believe in their country and love their king, and that is impressive.”
The minister also welcomed the visible participation of people with disabilities and those with albinism, some of whom were initiated (kubutseka) a few days ago.
“They are bona fide Emaswati too,” she said.
“They love their King and have every right to take part in our national ceremonies.”
As the march gained momentum, the excitement intensified. Groups followed one another in an unbroken flow, moving as if they had been born for that moment. Observers estimated that the column of marching regiments stretched close to a kilometre in length—a living river of song, colour and cultural pride.
In keeping with tradition, His Majesty also marched alongside his Libutfo, reinforcing the significance of the mission and strengthening the bond between the Monarchy and his people.
His presence elevated the occasion, turning the march into a powerful symbol of unity, endurance and shared responsibility.
Ingaja displayed extraordinary energy and determination, fully aware that the dispatch to cut Lusekwane demands more than spirited singing. It requires strength, discipline and resilience—qualities deeply embedded in the Incwala tradition.
Faces glistened with sweat, feet struck the earth with resolve, and voices carried the weight of centuries-old ceremony.
As the procession disappeared into the distance, one thing was clear: this was not merely a march, but a national declaration of identity and devotion.
The dispatch of Ingaja remains one of the pinnacles of Incwala, a moment when the nation literally moves together, answering a sacred call with unmatched unity and strength.
