BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – As the Buganu Ceremony begins tomorrow, Lutsango from government ministries is ready to participate in the 2026 Buganu Ceremony.
This was observed by the Eswatini Positive News team on February 25, 2026, during visits to several ministry rehearsal points where intensive preparations were underway ahead of the first leg of the ceremony. Participating ministries include the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, and the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT).
Although rehearsals are conducted separately within each ministry, a shared spirit of cultural pride, discipline and commitment to tradition was clearly evident among participants.
At the Ministry of ICT, Lutsango members were seen in high spirits as they rehearsed, reflecting the celebratory yet respectful nature of the Buganu Ceremony. The ministry also received a morale-boosting visit from Mabhodweni Tsabedze, which further encouraged the participants.
His Majesty King Mswati III summoned Lutsango for the Buganu Ceremony on February 27, 2026, officially marking the commencement of their participation in the first leg of the ceremony at the Buhleni Royal Residence.
On Friday, Lutsango will arrive at Buhleni Royal Residence to present Tetfulo to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi. Saturday will mark the main ceremony (engomeni), during which the regiment will be in Red (lihiya). The ceremony will conclude on Sunday with the dispersal of the regiment in Orange (lihiya).
Meanwhile, preparations at Buhleni Royal Residence have also been finalised. The main arena has been transformed into a lush green space, providing a dignified setting for the sacred cultural dances. The arena was carefully nurtured over the past three weeks by DuGreen Organic in readiness for the ceremony.
Tourism Significance
Beyond its cultural importance, the Buganu Ceremony plays a vital role in Eswatini’s tourism sector. The event offers visitors an authentic cultural experience, granting rare access to traditional rituals, ceremonies and Swazi heritage that are not staged for tourism purposes.
The ceremony attracts both local and international visitors, leading to increased hotel occupancy, transport usage, and demand for local crafts and souvenirs. This, in turn, stimulates economic activity and supports small businesses.
Local communities actively participate through song, dance and craftwork, fostering cultural pride and economic empowerment. This strong community involvement not only preserves cultural heritage but also creates meaningful engagement between visitors and locals.
Through the promotion of the Buganu Ceremony, Eswatini continues to position itself as a premier cultural tourism destination offering an experience rooted in authenticity, tradition and royal heritage that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
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