BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
BUHLENI -Thousands of Lutsango from across Eswatini on Friday presented tetfulo to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi at the Buhleni Royal Residence, officially opening the 2026 Marula (Buganu) Ceremony.
Agape love visibly demonstrated through the transformation of the dancing arena into a lush, dignified and well-manicured space.
The transformation was undertaken under the directive of King Mswati III and carefully nurtured over the past three weeks by DuGreen Organic, ensuring a safer and more orderly arena for the main dances (engomeni) scheduled for Saturday and the dispersal of regiments on Sunday.
This was revealed on February 27, 2026, by the Minister of Home Affairs, Princess Lindiwe, as Lutsango arrived from all corners of the country to present tetfulo, marking the beginning of Buganu celebrations that also attract visitors from outside Eswatini and contribute to national tourism revenue.
Princess Lindiwe reminded Lutsango of the ceremonial programme and attire, stating that Saturday’s main ceremony requires Red (lihiya), during which regiments will dance before Their Majesties, while Sunday’s dispersal will see participants wearing Orange (lihiya).
She urged strict adherence to rules and regulations, respect for leadership through following tindvuna, and discipline in time management. She emphasised that when Lutsango are called to enter the dancing arena, they must do so promptly and as instructed to maintain order.
The Minister said this year’s Buganu dances are expected to be smoother and safer, noting that stones and thorns that previously disrupted performances have been removed.
She added that the improvements are in line with preparations for the Jubilee marking 40 years of His Majesty on the Throne, to be celebrated in April 2026.
Throughout the day, Lutsango arrived in colourful regalia, many singing as they advanced to present tetfulo to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi. The gifts included Buganu (marula brew), fruits, vegetables and other traditional items symbolising respect, gratitude and cultural continuity.
Senators, Members of Parliament and government ministries also observed tradition by presenting tetfulo.
The Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, joined Lutsango in a lively dance at Buhleni, celebrating culture, tradition and environmental heritage while showcasing the vibrancy of Eswatini’s tourism sector.
Beyond its cultural significance, the Buganu Ceremony continues to draw visitors from beyond the country’s borders, boosting economic activity through accommodation, transport and related services.
As thousands of Lutsango gather at Buhleni, the 2026 Buganu Ceremony has begun on a strong note of unity, order and renewal, with agape love clearly reflected in the transformed arena and the collective commitment to uphold Eswatini’s living cultural heritage.
#Buganu2026 #EswatiniCulture #Lutsango
