BY MBONO MDLULI
BUHLENI – Thousands of members of the Lutsango regiment have dispersed from Buhleni Royal Residence, marking the official close of the first leg of this year’s Buganu Festival.
The women departed on Sunday, 1 March 2026, having arrived in Buhleni on Friday, 27 February 2026, for three days of vibrant cultural celebration. Despite sweltering conditions, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 36 degrees Celsius, the regiment remained spirited as they brought colour, song and dance to the revered royal residence.
As proceedings drew to a close, the jubilant atmosphere gradually gave way to warm farewells, as members prepared to return to their respective homes across Eswatini.
Before departure, members of the regiment received tinkunzi in the form of chicken portions and other gifts. The symbolic gesture reflected appreciation for their participation and continued commitment to upholding the nation’s cherished cultural traditions. The presentation underscored the deep respect accorded to Lutsango, whose role remains central to preserving Eswatini’s heritage.
Soon afterwards, buses lined the grounds of Buhleni as the women carefully packed their belongings, signalling the end of a colourful and spiritually uplifting gathering that had drawn emaSwati from various regions of the country.
Many of the women expressed heartfelt gratitude to Their Majesties for the generous food items. Several noted that their children and other dependants at home would be delighted to receive something from the royal celebration, describing the gifts as both meaningful and practical.
While the festivities at Buhleni have concluded, participants departed with more than just provisions. They carried with them renewed pride, strengthened sisterhood and lasting memories forged through unity and shared cultural identity.
The Buganu Festival — also widely known as the Marula Festival — remains one of the nation’s most treasured cultural events. Celebrating the marula harvest, the festival reinforces national identity, tradition and royal heritage. The first leg at Buhleni traditionally sets the tone for the broader celebrations, blending cultural expression with royal ceremony.
With the first phase complete, attention now shifts to Hlane Royal Residence, where the second leg of the festival will continue. There, the spirit of tradition, celebration and unity is expected to once again bring the nation together.
Though the songs at Buhleni have quietened and the regimental formations have dispersed, the significance of the gathering endures — a testament to the strength of Eswatini’s cultural foundations and the women who proudly uphold them.
