…Attendees praise Eswatini’s hospitality, culture and warm reception
BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The future of both the MTN Bushfire Festival and the Nazareth Baptist Church (Shembe Church) Prayer Festival appears bright, with many visitors expressing their desire to return to Eswatini following what they described as a memorable and welcoming experience.
The two major events, which attracted thousands of local and international visitors, concluded on Sunday, 31 May 2026. Many attendees began travelling back to their respective countries on Sunday and Monday after spending several days participating in the festivities.
Visitors attending both events have been sharing positive experiences through traditional media platforms and social media, praising the warmth, hospitality and respect shown to them by emaSwati during their stay in the Kingdom.
Bushfire visitors impressed by culture and hospitality
Attendees of the 2026 MTN Bushfire Festival described the event as one of the most welcoming cultural experiences they had encountered.
Many highlighted the friendliness of local people, the quality of food available at the festival and the vibrant atmosphere that characterised the event throughout the weekend.
Visitors were particularly impressed by the cultural diversity on display, as participants from different parts of Africa and around the world gathered to celebrate music, arts and culture.
The colourful attire worn by festival-goers and performers also drew admiration, with many visitors describing Bushfire as a unique platform that showcases cultural expression from across the globe.
Several attendees indicated that the experience had exceeded their expectations and that they were already looking forward to returning for next year’s festival.
Shembe Church members full of praise
Members of the Nazareth Baptist Church who travelled to Eswatini for their annual prayer gathering were equally appreciative of the reception they received.
Many church members took to social media to express gratitude for the respect, kindness and humility demonstrated by emaSwati throughout their visit.
Some visitors said they were surprised by the level of courtesy shown to them by people from all walks of life.
They noted that even individuals they perceived to be in positions of influence or authority interacted with them respectfully and treated them with dignity.
For many, the experience served as a reminder of the importance of humility, compassion and mutual respect in society.
Respect and humility leave lasting impression
Several visitors remarked that acts of kindness and respect had become increasingly rare in some communities and countries.
As a result, they were deeply touched by the way they were welcomed in Eswatini.
They observed that simple gestures of courtesy and consideration created an environment where visitors felt valued and appreciated.
Some Shembe Church members said they would carry those lessons back to their communities and hoped to see similar values promoted elsewhere.
They emphasised that respect for others, regardless of social status or background, remains an important ingredient in building stronger and more united societies.
Festivals continue boosting Eswatini’s image
The positive feedback from visitors is expected to further strengthen Eswatini’s reputation as a destination for cultural, religious and tourism events.
Both the MTN Bushfire Festival and the Nazareth Baptist Church Prayer Festival have become significant annual events that attract large numbers of visitors and contribute to the country’s tourism sector.
The events also provide opportunities for cultural exchange, economic activity and the promotion of Eswatini’s image on the international stage.
With many visitors already expressing their intention to return next year, organisers and stakeholders are likely to view this year’s editions as a success.
For many attendees, it was not only the festivals themselves that left a lasting impression, but also the warmth, respect and hospitality of the people of Eswatini.
