Lobamba – The Incwala, the main day of the ceremony, held yesterday at Ludzidzini Royal Residence, drew large crowds of Emaswati and international visitors who gathered to participate in and witness the Kingdom’s most sacred cultural event.
The annual event was led by His Majesty King Mswati III, accompanied by Libutfo, Lutsango, Imbali, Ingaja and Bokhololo, alongside senior members of the nation’s leadership. Thousands filled the royal grounds to dance, sing and observe rituals that form the heart of Eswatini’s cultural calendar.
Attendees travelled from across the country and beyond its borders to be part of the ceremony. Bonginkosi Mthimkhulu from Eshowe in South Africa, attending for the first time, described Incwala as a powerful cultural experience. He said while he had previously attended events such as Buganu in Eswatini, Incwala stood apart for its symbolism, unity and depth of tradition.
Visitors from the region were also present. Erick Mang’era, a senior economist at Tanzania’s Ministry of Finance, attended the main day with colleagues Mary Mihigo and Manase Micah. The group, who were in Eswatini on holiday, said the ceremony offered a rare opportunity to witness living traditions and distinctive regalia preserved over generations.
European visitors were equally visible among the crowds. Cecilie Nymann and Nicolai Kofod travelled from Denmark after learning about Incwala online. They said being at Ludzidzini allowed them to better understand the pride Emaswati take in their customs and the care taken to protect cultural practices.
Italian national Davide Cristaldi, who works in Mozambique, entered the country through the Lomahasha border post specifically to attend the main day. Experiencing Incwala for the first time, he said the ceremony left a lasting impression and motivated him to return next year dressed in full traditional attire. Fellow Italian visitor Lulia Pavel also described the day as memorable and educational.
Local participants spoke of the ceremony’s spiritual and social meaning. Sukangihlale Dlamini from Lwembesane in the Hhohho Region said Incwala is a period of prayer and reflection for the nation. Muvakwesigameko Mamba from Inyatsini yaMswati in Ngabezweni said he was pleased to see attendance increase with each passing year.
Young people also called on their peers to take part. Bongiswa Dlamini from Lobamba said participation helps young Emaswati understand their roots and traditions. Umbutfo Khotsumlomo Shongwe from Emagumedzeni, who underwent Kubutseka in 2023, said involvement in Incwala strengthened his sense of identity and national unity.
Mazwi Maseko, Umbutfo Maphuma eDzakeni Umgadlela Ngabezweni, attended Incwala for the first time after completing Kubutseka on December 24, 2025. He described the experience as an important cultural step in his life.
Beyond cultural significance, the ceremony also carried economic value. Thulani Ntshangase, Director of If’s Lounge, said Incwala continues to attract both international tourists and locals, bringing increased activity to leisure spaces and supporting the hospitality and entertainment sectors.
Local musician Sancheziey, whose real name is Mkhuleko Mangwe and who is known for the song Siyabonga Gogo, said attending Incwala remains a meaningful way for citizens to connect with culture, unity and shared national values.
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