BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
EZULWINI- The 2025 Swazi Polo event brought together a stunning display of fashion, culture, and sport, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Held at the beautiful Yellowstone, Swazi Lizkhar, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, this year’s gathering was a celebration of elegance and creativity, where the theme “Polka Dot” shaped the attire and expression of all who attended.
The theme, simple yet timeless, evoked a nostalgic sense of vintage glamour, prompting fashion lovers to embrace style with flair. From bold black-and-white patterns to soft pastel designs, the venue transformed into a vibrant tapestry of creativity. Gentle spring breezes played with flowing dresses, sharp suits, and eye-catching accessories as the kingdom’s finest showcased their interpretations of “Polka Dot couture.”
Swazi Polo has become a cultural landmark, celebrating Eswatini’s evolving fashion identity while honoring the prestigious sport of kings. As guests began to arrive, it was clear that this was no ordinary Saturday. The clinking of champagne glasses melded with laughter, accompanied by the fresh scent of cut grass as spectators settled beside the lush polo fields.
Hosts Sakhile Simelane and Alan Stewart expertly guided the event, balancing elegance and excitement throughout the day. Their ability to navigate the various phases, from match announcements to fashion showcases, lent a unique rhythm to the proceedings. The atmosphere buzzed with the vibrancy that only Swazi Polo can inspire.
Adding to the glamour were South African stars Jaziel Brothers, Skhumbuzo and Nandile, whose performances infused the air with musical magic. Their lively sets perfectly complemented the elegance of the day, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
The guest list was a who’s who of familiar faces from Eswatini and beyond. Thapelo Mokoena, the stylish South African actor, television producer, and presenter, stood out among the glamorous crowd. Dressed in a chocolate-colored shirt adorned with subtle dots and loose, breezy trousers, Thapelo embodied the theme with understated sophistication.
Mokoena, who has visited Eswatini seven times, expressed his fondness for the kingdom. “Every visit feels like a homecoming,” he said with a warm smile. “Eswatini has this rare charm, a peaceful rhythm that keeps calling me back. Swazi Polo isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of art, style, and African unity.”
Known for his roles in Trackers and Bulletproof (Season 3), Thapelo has become an honorary son of Eswatini. His admiration for the kingdom’s hospitality was echoed by another beloved South African celebrity, Enhle Mbali, whose arrival elicited a flurry of camera flashes.
Enhle Mbali, the acclaimed actress and fashion icon, graced the venue in a stunning white outfit that perfectly balanced elegance and strength. Her minimalist yet striking look proved that simplicity, when worn with confidence, can outshine extravagance. Now on her third visit to Eswatini, Enhle praised the country’s warmth and charm.
She described Eswatini as a delightful place, filled with hospitality and beauty, making each visit memorable. Her enthusiasm for the culture and people contributed to the vibrant atmosphere of the Swazi Polo event. Enhle mingled with guests, posed for selfies, and shared laughter, transforming the occasion into a family gathering rather than a formal affair.
As the sun began to set, its golden rays illuminated sequined fabrics and champagne flutes. The “Polka Dot” theme, far from being restrictive, became a unifying language, connecting diverse personalities and backgrounds. Each dot represented a story of elegance, culture, and individuality.
Fashion designers, stylists, and photographers flocked to capture the essence of Eswatini’s emerging fashion scene. Local designers unveiled dotted collections that blended modern tailoring with traditional motifs, proving that Swazi creativity not only follows trends but sets them.
The venue, Yellowstone, Swazi Lizkhar, offered a stunning backdrop for the colorful event. Guests indulged in gourmet delicacies and signature cocktails, savoring the best of Eswatini’s culinary artistry. From local-inspired canapés to fusion desserts, the culinary experience matched the richness of the fashion on display.
Polo enthusiasts networked, laughed, and shared their favorite looks. Swazi Polo has evolved into a lifestyle statement, showcasing Eswatini’s cultural confidence and creativity. It bridges local artistry with international appeal, placing the kingdom firmly on the map of Southern Africa’s luxury events. This year’s edition, with its perfect blend of dots and delight, reaffirmed that fashion in Eswatini is not just about clothing; it’s about identity, innovation, and pride.
