BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LUDZIDZINI – Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe has hailed the overwhelming attendance witnessed during this year’s Incwala Ceremony, describing it as a powerful affirmation that Emaswati continue to firmly support their culture, traditions and the institution of the Monarchy.
Speaking during an interview with this publication on Thursday, January 8, 2026, during Kushiswa Kwelukhuni (the Burning of the Log), Chief Ndlaluhlaza. He said the massive turnout was a clear demonstration of unity, loyalty and respect for Swazi customs, adding that it also reflected a strong and stable Royalty.
“The numbers we witnessed this year clearly show that Emaswati continue to stand firmly behind their culture, traditions and the Monarchy. This level of support confirms that the Royalty is strong and stable,” said Chief Ndlaluhlaza.
He further commended Ingatja for bringing back an impressive Lusekwane, describing their performance as a strong sign that the future of the nation is secure.
“The strength, discipline and commitment shown by Ingatja demonstrate that they are capable of carrying our traditions forward. They are the generation that will pass on our customs to the next, just as it was done during our time,” he added.
The Incwala Ceremony officially began on December 20, 2025, attracting thousands of Emaswati to the Ludzidzini Royal Residence, where the sacred national ritual unfolded. On Day Two, regiments took part in traditional dances, showcasing the richness of Swazi culture while reinforcing unity, heritage and national pride. The ceremonies were graced by His Majesty King Mswati III.
From Ludzidzini, the sacred proceedings moved to Ngabezweni Royal Residence, then to Mbangweni Royal Residence in Shiselweni, and later to Buhleni Royal Residence in Hhohho, in line with the traditional royal itinerary.
As preparations intensified ahead of the cutting of the sacred Lusekwane shrub, Libutfo from Bulandzeni Royal Kraal departed from Etfuntini Royal Kraal, setting out in accordance with custom ahead of the royal commissioning.
The Lamnyama contingent was led by Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, accompanied by the Minister of Education and Training, Hon. Owen Nxumalo, Members of Parliament and other traditional leaders. The delegation made a brief stop at Magoga before proceeding to Bhalekane, their next destination.
Meanwhile, Ingatja emerged in large numbers and high spirits, eagerly anticipating the cutting of the sacred shrubs — a key cultural rite marking an important stage in the development and transition of a Swazi young man.
On Saturday, January 3, thousands of Ingatja and Libutfo marched for kilometres in song and motion to cut the sacred Lusekwane, following the official commissioning by His Majesty King Mswati III. This marked Day 15 of the Incwala Ceremony, signalling the entry into its final and most demanding stages.
On Sunday, January 4, 2026, Ingatja displayed remarkable determination and discipline as they delivered the sacred Lusekwane to Their Majesties at the Ludzidzini Cattle Byre. Travelling day and night, they fulfilled this revered rite of passage, demonstrating courage, endurance and unwavering commitment to Swazi culture and the journey into manhood.
The movement of Libutfo and Ingatja forms part of the deeply respected traditional processes leading to the royal rituals that define Incwala, a cornerstone of Eswatini’s national cultural calendar.
The Incwala main day was held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, followed by Kutila on Wednesday. On Thursday, January 8, 2026, the ceremony concluded with Kushiswa Kwelukhuni (Burning of the Log), where regiments ascended the mountains to fetch firewood before burning it later in the day, officially marking the end of the Incwala Ceremony.
The rituals will be followed by the weeding of the Royal Fields, which commenced on Friday, January 9, 2026, bringing the sacred national observances to their final phase.
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