By Mbono Mdluli
BULANDZENI – Joy and happiness were evident on the faces of those who attended the Ummemo cultural ceremony at the Bulandzeni Chiefdom, under the Ndzingeni Constituency in the Hhohho Region.
The event took place on March 1, 2025, at Buya Nndeni Kabomntwana Royal Kraal. Described as well-attended by Bulandzeni residents and members of the public from other areas, the event started around midday and continued well into the evening.
Attendees were so delighted that it was difficult for them to leave, as they enjoyed every moment—from the interactions and performances to the food and drinks, which were in abundance. For many, it was an event to remember.
The festivities began with a performance by a cultural group from Bulandzeni known as Tingidzi Temhlaba. The group, comprising performers of various age groups, showcased different cultural acts, including Sibhaca and Ingadla.
Before this, the audience was thrilled by the sight of young boys participating in the Kubutseka custom at the Royal Kraal. The crowd was particularly amused when the boys had to run with a porous bucket full of water on their heads. This bucket is known as inkilingane in SiSwati.
The boys performed this feat while dressed in traditional regalia. Members of the Lutsango regiment from Bulandzeni also captivated the audience, including Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe and his guests, with their songs.
One of the highlights was the song titled ‘Uyayeyez’ Umnguni’, which is regarded as a flagship or trademark traditional song among members of the Ndwandwe clan. Many guests could not resist joining the dance.
During the ‘Kutsamba’ dance, Lutsango members took turns displaying their skills to the delight of the attendees. Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe’s wives, Emakhosikati LaSengwayo and LaNkhosi, also showcased their dancing skills, much to the audience’s appreciation.
The Emakhosikati eventually led Lutsango out of the arena with a song titled ‘Halala’. Lacwebetelako then entered the arena, starting with ‘Kuhkehla’ and later performing ‘Umgubho’.
Following these performances, it was time for Chief Ndlaluhlaza to deliver his much-anticipated speech.
In his address, the traditional leader expressed profound gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event. He emphasized that the purpose of the event was to unite Bulandzeni residents in the spirit of preserving their culture.
He urged residents to continue teaching each other about the beauty of their culture, assuring them that the Royal Kraal would continue hosting such events, with the next one likely to take place in about three years.
Bulandzeni Indvuna Musa Ollom Tsabedze also spoke to this publication before the event. He explained that Ummemo was about reminding residents of how things were traditionally done. He extended his gratitude to everyone who played a role in making the event successful.