BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
LUDZUDZINI – The wait is over!
Umhlanga 2026 begins tomorrow, August 25, as thousands of young EmaSwati women prepare to embark on their annual cultural journey, marking the start of one of Eswatini’s most significant celebrations of culture and heritage.
As the Imbali prepare to gather for Umhlanga, they have been urged to uphold respect, humility, discipline and unity, with their conduct expected to reflect the dignity and values of the cultural ceremony.
The call has come from Indvuna yeMbali Bongiwe “Vivane” Hlatjwako, who has reminded the young women that participating in Umhlanga comes with a responsibility to protect and uphold the cultural values passed down through generations.
In a previous interview with Eswatini Positive News, Hlatjwako placed respect at the centre of the Imbali’s conduct, stressing that the significance of Umhlanga extends far beyond the ceremony itself.
“Every maiden should demonstrate respect, humility, discipline, unity, and pride in our cultural heritage. Umhlanga is more than a ceremony, it is a symbol of our identity, values, and traditions,” Hlatjwako said.
She further reminded Imbali that they represent more than themselves when they participate in the national cultural gathering.
“Every participant should conduct herself with dignity and remember that she represents not only herself but also her family, her community, and the Kingdom of Eswatini,” she said.
Hlatjwako speaks from years of experience. She first attended Umhlanga when she was eight years old and has since grown from a young maiden into Indvuna yeMbali, a position that has given her the opportunity to guide, mentor and support younger women.
Reflecting on her journey, she said one of the most fulfilling aspects has been witnessing thousands of maidens come together in unity, discipline and pride to celebrate their culture.
“Serving as Indvuna yeMbali has given me the opportunity to mentor young women, encourage them to respect our traditions, and watch many of them grow into confident and responsible leaders,” she said.
She described her contribution to preserving Eswatini’s cultural identity as her greatest achievement, saying the experience has allowed her to play a role in ensuring that the country’s traditions continue to be valued by younger generations.
With the ceremony now only a day away, Hlatjwako has also encouraged Imbali to prepare themselves physically and mentally for the journey ahead.
She urged the young women to drink plenty of water and get sufficient rest before and during the ceremony, while also taking time to understand the purpose and significance of Umhlanga.
“Participate with respect, discipline, and a willingness to learn,” she advised.
Hlatjwako also called on Imbali to support one another and work collectively throughout the ceremony, emphasising the importance of following the guidance of their leaders and maintaining a positive attitude.
“Work together with fellow maidens, follow the guidance of your leaders and maintain a positive attitude throughout the ceremony,” she said.
As the Imbali prepare to make memories that will remain with them long after the reeds have been returned, Hlatjwako encouraged them to embrace the experience with confidence, joy and respect.
“Treasure this opportunity because it is a unique celebration of who we are as emaSwati,” she said.
She urged the young women to support one another, obey their leaders and uphold the values that have made Umhlanga an enduring symbol of Eswatini’s cultural identity.
“May this year’s ceremony strengthen our unity, preserve our traditions, and leave every maiden with lasting memories and valuable life lessons,” Hlatjwako said.
Tomorrow, the Imbali will begin their journey carrying with them more than reeds. They will carry the expectations of their families, communities and a nation proud of its heritage.
As Umhlanga 2026 gets underway, the message from the Indvuna yeMbali is unmistakable: celebrate with pride, participate with joy, but above all, uphold the respect, discipline and dignity that give the ceremony its enduring meaning.
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