Lobamba – Rising Swazi cultural artist Sancheziey underwent the traditional kubutseka ceremony on April 12, 2026, at the KaMgadlela Engabezweni Royal Kraal, marking what he describes as a defining new chapter in both his life and his artistic journey.
Known for building the Salukazana brand and for his appearances at platforms such as the Mlawula Campfire Festival, Sancheziey said the ceremony carried deep meaning for him as someone who writes and sings cultural songs. “As a Swazi traditional artist who writes and sings cultural songs, undergoing Kubutseka is more than just a rite of passage, it is a deep spiritual and cultural awakening. It connects me directly to my ancestors and strengthens the authenticity of my music. It gives my voice truth, because I am no longer just singing about tradition, I am living it,” he said.
The artist said the calling he felt within himself was what pushed him to take the step. “What inspired me to go through this process was the calling I felt within myself. As someone who represents Swazi culture through music, I knew I had to fully immerse myself in our customs. I wanted to understand, respect, and embody the journey that many before me have taken, so that when I create, it comes from a place of truth and experience,” he said.
During the ceremony, Sancheziey was given the warrior name Gandz’ Umjono, a name he said was earned through the effort and commitment he showed from kukhemanti and kugiya. “Taken from the effort and commitment I showed from kukhemanti and kugiya is the reason behind the name, with thus, putting an effort in everything I do has been the centre of every small and big achievement I’ve earned as the brand,” he explained. “The name I received there as a warrior is a sacred part of my identity. It reflects my character, my journey, and the spirit I carry. I hold it with great honor and respect.”
Since becoming a member of the Umbutfo, Sancheziey said the experience has reshaped how he carries himself. “The journey since becoming Umbutfo has been powerful and humbling. It has brought discipline, pride, and a deeper sense of identity. I now carry myself with more responsibility, knowing that I represent not only myself but my people and my culture. It has also influenced my music in a profound way, giving it depth, strength, and purpose,” he said.
On maintaining the customs associated with the journey, the artist was clear about his commitment. “To maintain the Swazi customs of this journey, I commit to living by the values I was taught, respect, discipline, unity, and cultural pride. I will continue to educate others through my music, preserve our traditions, and remain grounded in the teachings of our elders,” he said.
Sancheziey also extended his appreciation to the Babukisi Foundation for documenting the ceremony. “I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Babukisi Foundation for taking the time and effort to beautifully capture the special moments of my Kubutseka cultural activity. Your dedication, professionalism, and attention to detail truly mean a lot to me. Through your work, these meaningful memories have been preserved in a way that I will cherish for years to come,” he said.
The artist is also preparing for an upcoming performance at the MoMo Experience on June 27, which he has described as another significant milestone for the Salukazana brand, with his sound promising what he calls a culture-triggering and immersive experience for both local and international audiences.
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