MBABANE — The Government of Eswatini has announced the departure of a cultural delegation to India for the 39th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 15, 2026.
The announcement was made during an official briefing held at the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Youth Affairs boardroom in Mbabane. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Arts, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, the Principal Secretary, senior ministry officials, members of the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture board and management, the cultural troupe, and members of the media.
While a total of 20 delegates will represent Eswatini at the fair, only the 10 member cultural troupe attended the briefing. The full delegation comprises 10 cultural artists and 10 craftsmen selected by the Department of Handicrafts.
The Surajkund International Crafts Mela, now in its 39th year, is one of India’s largest cultural festivals, drawing thousands of exhibitors and large numbers of daily visitors. The fair serves as a global platform for cultural exchange, artistic performance and the promotion of traditional crafts.
ENCACC Chief Executive Officer Stanley Dlamini said, “The festival presents an opportunity not only to showcase performance arts but also to promote the country’s cultural identity through crafts and exhibitions.” He said the event allows Eswatini to project its heritage and creativity to an international audience.
The cultural troupe consists of three Ingadla dancers, three Sibhaca dancers, three Lutsango performers, one performing artist and a head of delegation. The artists were selected from regional arts centres and recognised performers across the country.
Ingadla dancer Octavia Mkhatshwa said being chosen to represent the country was “an honour” and described the opportunity as a proud moment in her career. Gospel artist Siphiwo Ndoni Ndlangamandla, the only singer in the troupe, said the chance “to carry the nation’s flag abroad was both humbling and motivating.”
The delegation will be led by ENCACC’s Assistant Culture Manager, who will be responsible for coordination and overall management during the trip. The ministry confirmed that allowances have been arranged to cover incidental expenses for the delegation.
Indian High Commission Second Secretary for Education, Mr Sriram, welcomed Eswatini’s participation, saying, “Organisers of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela are looking forward to the country’s involvement, not only for dance and performances, but also for crafts and other cultural displays.” He also spoke of India’s interest in strengthening cooperation through structured cultural exchange programmes.
Officials encouraged the cultural troupe to uphold national values, maintain discipline and represent Eswatini with dignity while abroad, while also sharing updates on their activities during the festival.
The Ministry of Arts, Culture and Youth Affairs wished the delegation a safe journey as they prepare to represent Eswatini’s cultural heritage at the international event.
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