Ezulwini – Baka Ngwane is more than a television series. It is a celebration of Eswatini’s origins, values and identity, the Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, said at the official launch of the production in Ezulwini on Thursday.
Speaking at the Sharma House, Nzima said the series tells an authentic Swati story that places the country’s history, culture and people at the centre of modern storytelling. He said at a time when foreign content dominates television screens, Baka Ngwane offers a platform for Eswatini to tell its own story, in its own voice, for its own people.
The minister said film and television play an important role in shaping national identity, preserving heritage and promoting social cohesion. He described Baka Ngwane as a national cultural product that should be viewed not only as entertainment but also as a tool for education and cultural continuity, passing knowledge and values from one generation to the next.
Nzima also highlighted the economic and social contribution of the production, noting that more than 600 extras from various communities were employed during filming. He said the project created opportunities for skills transfer to local actors, technical crew and creatives, contributing to the growth of Eswatini’s film and television industry.
He said the creative sector provides space for participation across generations and backgrounds, and contributes to livelihoods and economic activity. According to the minister, investment in the arts translates into investment in people and skills, with long-term benefits for communities.
The minister thanked communities and chiefdoms that supported the production by allowing filming in their areas, saying their cooperation reflected strong collaboration between filmmakers and traditional authorities. He added that the series also showcases Eswatini’s landscapes and heritage sites, contributing to tourism promotion and local pride.
Nzima further commended Eswatini Television for providing a national platform for local heritage content, saying the broadcast of Baka Ngwane ensures that Swati culture and history reach households across the country. He declared the series launched for broadcast and called on the nation to support local productions and take pride in Eswatini’s stories
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