BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE– Persons with disabilities across Eswatini will have the opportunity to participate in this year’s Incwala ceremony, following a collaborative initiative by the Strength to Cope Foundation and the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office.
The program will provide transport and catering for Tingaja living with disabilities, ensuring they are fully included in the country’s flagship cultural event.
According to Sikhulile Dlamini, the Metron for persons with disabilities, the initiative mirrors the foundation’s previous success with the Umhlanga Reed Dance, where persons with disabilities were similarly supported. “Just like Umhlanga, we will be sending Ingaja to Incwala ceremony with the help of the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office,” Dlamini said. “The Deputy Prime Minister has always shown great commitment to supporting persons living with disabilities, as they are very close to her heart, and we are grateful for her continued involvement.”
Registration for Ingaja living with disabilities who wish to attend the Incwala ceremony closes on 30 November 2025. Interested participants are encouraged to visit the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, Disability Office, and ask for Thabile Matsebula for assistance.
The initiative builds on the success of including persons with disabilities in the Umhlanga Reed Dance, demonstrating a continued commitment to cultural inclusion. Recently, the Republic of China (Taiwan) donated two Toyota Quantums specially designed for persons with disabilities to the Government of Eswatini. Handed over to Deputy Prime Minister Senator Thulisile Dladla on 10 November 2025, the vehicles increase the total number of specialized transport options in the country to four, further improving mobility and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
These vehicles are equipped with universal features to enhance safety, comfort, and mobility for individuals with different physical needs, enabling easier access to health, education, and social services. With the Incwala ceremony approaching, these new resources will ensure that persons with disabilities can participate fully in Eswatini’s rich cultural traditions.
“This is a historic moment,” said Sikhulile Dlamini. “It shows that Eswatini is committed to inclusion, and that cultural events are for everyone, regardless of ability.”
(Courtesy Pic)
