BY PHUMELELE GAMEDZE (INTERN)
MBABANE– Her Royal Highness Princess Sakhizwe is spearheading a growing movement to transform one of Eswatini’s most remarkable historical sites into a major tourism attraction, while inspiring young emaSwati to reconnect with their cultural roots.
The Princess has thrown her support behind the upcoming 4th Khabane Cave Explore Walk, an event expected to attract heritage enthusiasts, adventure seekers, researchers, and nature lovers from across the country and beyond.
Speaking during an interview on Eswatini TV’s Kusile Breakfast Show, Princess Sakhizwe described the initiative as more than just a hiking event. Instead, she said it represents an opportunity for emaSwati to rediscover their identity, celebrate their history, and unlock new economic opportunities through heritage tourism.
The highly anticipated event is scheduled for June 28, with camping activities commencing a day earlier on June 27, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere surrounding the historic site.
The event comes only months after His Majesty King Mswati III officially launched Khabane Cave and declared it a National Monument, a move that elevated the site’s status as one of Eswatini’s most significant heritage landmarks.
Princess Sakhizwe said preserving the nation’s heritage while creating sustainable economic opportunities was a responsibility that should be embraced by all citizens.
“What motivates me is wanting a brighter future for Eswatini and for the country as a whole. It is important for each and every person to contribute where they can bring value in creating a better country and a better economy,” she said.
Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Khabane Cave holds immense archaeological significance. Experts from the National Monuments Office and the Eswatini National Trust Commission revealed that excavations have uncovered evidence showing that the cave was occupied thousands of years ago.
Researchers have discovered ancient stone tools and plant remains that provide valuable insight into how early communities survived and adapted to their environment. Ongoing scientific investigations, conducted in collaboration with researchers from Germany, continue to reveal new findings that are helping to place Eswatini firmly within the broader story of human civilisation.
Princess Sakhizwe said the cave serves as a powerful bridge between past and present generations.
“It preserves evidence of how our ancestors adapted to their environment and highlights Eswatini’s important place in the broader story of human history,” she said.
As countries around the world increasingly invest in heritage tourism, Princess Sakhizwe believes Eswatini is sitting on enormous untapped potential.
Tourists are no longer seeking only wildlife and scenery. Increasingly, they want authentic cultural experiences, historical narratives, and opportunities to engage with local communities. Khabane Cave, she believes, offers exactly that combination.
The Explore Walk has therefore been designed as an educational and cultural experience that blends adventure, history, archaeology, and environmental appreciation.
“We notice that heritage tourism is somewhat untapped in the country. Visitors increasingly seek culture and history, and these create authentic experiences. Experiences broaden our minds and help us understand different ways of life,” she said.
Importantly, organisers say local communities stand to benefit directly from the initiative. Through partnerships involving stakeholders such as Rotary Club and heritage institutions, efforts are underway to create employment opportunities, community-based tourism ventures, tour guiding services, and other income-generating activities linked to the site.
Princess Sakhizwe also challenged young people to become ambassadors of Eswatini’s heritage by using social media and digital platforms to tell local stories in innovative and engaging ways.
“Heritage should not be museum pieces. We have stories to tell, and young people should use the platforms they are familiar with to ensure those stories reach even their peers,” she said.
Organisers believe the Khabane Cave Explore Walk demonstrates how heritage conservation, tourism development, youth engagement, and community empowerment can work together to preserve the nation’s identity while creating lasting economic value.
As excitement builds ahead of the June 28 event, Khabane Cave is rapidly emerging as more than just an archaeological site. It is becoming a symbol of how Eswatini can leverage its rich history and cultural heritage to drive tourism, create opportunities for communities, and inspire future generations to take pride in their national story.
(Courtesy Pic)
