BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI– Manzini’s rich cultural heritage and historic landmarks are expected to attract more local and international visitors as the region intensifies efforts to promote tourism through the Manzini Regional Day Heritage City Tour, which was held on July 30, 2026.
The tour, which formed part of the Manzini Regional Day 2026 celebrations, offered participants a rare opportunity to revisit the history of Eswatini’s commercial capital while highlighting the importance of preserving the region’s cultural identity for future generations.
Beginning at King Somhlolo Park, the guided excursion took visitors to some of the city’s most treasured heritage sites, including the Nazarene area, the Old Stone Church Museum, Tree Lonely Park, King Bhunu’s Trial Tree, the former District Commissioner’s office, Number 43 Trelawney Park, popularly known as KwaMagogo, and the bustling Manzini Main Market.
Regional Secretary Arnold Dlamini said the initiative represented an important step towards positioning Manzini as a cultural tourism destination while ensuring that the city’s history remains alive.
He said organisers hoped the programme would eventually develop into a permanent attraction, with dedicated buses transporting visitors between historical sites to learn more about the city’s past.
“We are hopeful that, with the tour we have today, there will eventually be a large bus running two or three times a day. People will be able to board the bus, learn about the history of the town and continue to other sites so that we preserve our heritage for future generations,” he said.
Dlamini said preserving historical sites was essential in ensuring that future generations understood the journey that shaped modern-day Manzini.
Municipal Council of Manzini Local Economic Development Officer Nokuphila Shabalala guided participants through the various locations, sharing stories about the people, events and traditions that contributed to the growth of the city.
The tour began at King Somhlolo Park, home to the bronze statue of King Sobhuza I, affectionately known as Somhlolo, whose vision of unity, prosperity and development continues to inspire the nation.
Participants also visited King Bhunu’s Trial Tree, a historic pod mahogany tree that serves as a reminder of the 1898 trial of King Bhunu by the Transvaal government.
A major highlight was the Old Stone Church Museum, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Completed in 1926, the landmark preserves important chapters of Eswatini’s religious and social history.
The museum documents the arrival and growth of Christianity in Eswatini from the 1840s while tracing the transformation of Bremersdorp into present-day Manzini. Visitors explored historical artefacts, photographs and displays that showcase the country’s journey through time.
Board member Elizabeth Hynd, the granddaughter of founders Dr David Hynd and Reverend Kanema Hynd, shared insights into the church’s century-long legacy and contribution to the local community.
The group also visited Manzini Nazarene High School, where Form One pupil Wandzisile Magagula provided an overview of the institution’s history. Established in 1962 by the Church of the Nazarene Mission, the school has played an important role in shaping generations of EmaSwati.
Another key stop was the Manzini Main Market, one of the city’s busiest trading centres and a vital pillar of the local economy. Participants learned about the market’s role in supporting livelihoods, connecting traders and attracting customers from across the country.
The tour concluded at Number 43 Trelawney Park, popularly known as KwaMagogo, which became a symbol of courage and solidarity during the apartheid era after sheltering more than 25 freedom fighters, including former South African presidents Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma.
As Manzini Regional Day 2026 celebrations continue, organisers believe the Heritage City Tour will strengthen cultural preservation efforts while creating new opportunities for tourism, education and economic growth.
The initiative is expected to ensure that the stories behind Manzini’s heritage sites remain alive and continue inspiring future generations.
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