….. Nation to honour former Prime Minister with State Funeral this weekend
By Tandzile Dlamini
MBABANE – The Kingdom of Eswatini will unite this weekend in a moment of national reflection and tribute, as it hosts a State Funeral for His Excellency Prince Mabandla, the former Prime Minister and one of the country’s most respected statesmen.
Government has officially announced that the State Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, 12 July 2025, at the New Zakhele Free Evangelical Assemblies Church auditorium, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
This solemn occasion will be followed by traditional burial rites on Sunday, 13 July, at Ntfonjeni in the Hhohho Region, after a night vigil at KaNdwandwe Umphakatsi.
The announcement, issued by Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, reflects the high regard in which Prince Mabandla was held across the nation. A condolences book has been opened at the DPM’s Office for emaSwati to pen messages of sympathy and respect.
Prince Mabandla, who once led the country as Prime Minister, leaves behind a legacy of selfless service, visionary leadership, and deep dedication to national unity and progress. His passing is not only a loss to the Royal Family but also to the people of Eswatini.
As the nation prepares for this important farewell, citizens are encouraged to join in paying their respects to a leader whose wisdom and service helped shape the modern Kingdom of Eswatini.
