BY MBONO MDLULI
LOBAMBA – Thousands of Emaswati and international visitors gathered at Ludzidzini Royal Residence to participate in the main Incwala Ceremony on December 18, 2024. The event was declared a public holiday by His Majesty King Mswati III, allowing many to join the cultural celebration.
Shops across the country, including in Mbabane, closed by noon in observance of the holiday, with many residents taking the opportunity to attend the ceremony. By early afternoon, crowds had begun arriving at Ludzidzini, filling nearby areas such as Emashibhini, where vendors sold items ranging from clothes to food and drinks.
Increased traffic in Lobamba kept traffic police busy, while security forces, including the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF), His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS), and Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services (ENFES), maintained order.
By 4 PM, the Guard of Honour had assembled, awaiting inspection by His Majesty the King. His Majesty arrived at 4:30 PM, greeted by cheers and traditional praise singing. After inspecting the Guard of Honour, the National Anthem was sung, and the King proceeded to the cattle byre.
Traditional dances led by the Ingaja regiment continued inside the packed cattle byre, drawing enthusiastic participation from attendees. The celebrations extended into the evening, showcasing Eswatini’s rich cultural heritage and unity.
Pics: Babukisi
