BY LINDELWA MYENI
MBABANE– Extensive transport and logistical arrangements have been put in place for the Shiselweni Reed Dance, with 50 buses, 83 trucks and 18 tankers prepared to support the movement and welfare of thousands of maidens during the annual cultural event.
The 50 prepaid buses will operate from 18 pickup points covering 15 Tinkhundla areas, ensuring that maidens are transported to and from the royal residence. The 83 trucks will carry luggage and harvested reeds, while the tankers will support water and shower services throughout the ceremony.
The state of readiness was confirmed during a stakeholders’ preparation meeting held at Mbangweni, where officials from various departments presented updates on arrangements ahead of the event.
Transport officers and regional coordinators have completed vehicle allocation and deployment schedules, while the Ministry of Public Works and Transport confirmed that the vehicles have been serviced and supplied with sufficient fuel for the duration of the ceremony.
Senator Pholile Shakantu, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, who represented the Minister for Home Affairs, welcomed the progress reported by the different teams and commended their efforts towards ensuring the smooth running of the royal event.
Regional Administrator Themba Nhlanganiso Masuku also confirmed that the Shiselweni Region was prepared to fulfil its responsibilities during the ceremony.
Beyond transport, accommodation arrangements have been finalised, with 34 schools prepared and sanitised to accommodate arriving maidens. Tibiyo Taka Ngwane has also erected the major marquees, while the remaining tent structures were expected to be completed before the end of the day.
Water services will be supported by the Eswatini Water Services Corporation through mobile tankers supplied from its depot. Environmental Health officers will provide sanitation services, including temporary latrines, flushing toilets, VIP facilities and shower stalls.
Electricity supply will be supported by a dedicated standby team from the Eswatini Electricity Company, with industrial generators available to ensure uninterrupted power. The team will also monitor electrical installations to prevent exposure to live cabling.
Medical teams comprising doctors and nurses will operate day and night at the stadium and school accommodation sites.
Social welfare measures will also be in place, with information stalls planned to provide guidance to maidens, while arrangements have been made to support maidens living with disabilities.
Road safety has received attention ahead of the event, particularly along the Mkhondvo-Nhlangano road, where stray cattle have been identified as a potential hazard. The Motor Vehicle Accident Fund has deployed eight officers to assist police in managing the risk.
The Shiselweni Reed Dance will begin on Friday, September 11, with the registration of arriving maidens. Reed delivery will follow on Saturday, September 12, before the ceremony concludes on Sunday, September 13, when the maidens will showcase their chastity before His Majesty the King and distinguished guests.
Mozambique has already confirmed its attendance, while favourable weather is expected over the weekend, with no rain forecast and temperatures of 23 degrees Celsius on Saturday and 25 degrees Celsius on Sunday.
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