BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE – The Kingdom continues to show that disability is not inability. As the country prepares for the Buganu Ceremony, the Eswatini National Disability Unit has confirmed that more than 150 people with disabilities have registered to take part.
The registration is being managed under the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office. Fikile Shongwe from the Disability Unit said the response has been very encouraging. “People with disabilities are showing great interest in the traditional ceremony. At the moment, we have 150 registered participants and the numbers are still growing,” she said.
The growing number of participants shows that national events are open to all emaSwati. In recent years, people with disabilities have been included in important cultural ceremonies such as Umhlanga and Incwala.
They do not only attend, they actively take part. This shows that having a disability does not take away a person’s identity or love for the country.
Shongwe also said inclusion is seen not only in cultural events but also in leadership. She mentioned Simphiwe Kunene, who serves as a Board Member at the Ministry of Health. Despite having a physical disability, she continues to serve in a senior role, proving that ability is not defined by physical condition.
As preparations continue, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla ecently received a donation of sunscreen worth E30 000 from Eswatini TV. The sunscreen will help protect participants from the hot summer sun during the ceremony.
“Eswatini TV’s donation came at the right time. As we prepare for Buganu, this sunscreen will help protect our participants while they celebrate our culture,” she said.
The Deputy Prime Minister also thanked Their Majesties for promoting inclusion and dignity for people with disabilities. The Buganu Ceremony, known as the celebration of the first fruit, continues to bring the nation together. This year, it also carries a strong message that every citizen matters and everyone has a place in the country’s traditions.
