BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MATSAPHA- His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) Imbali have been officially sent off to join thousands of maidens from across Eswatini at the 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance, which commenced on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence.
The send-off ceremony was held at the Correctional Staff College in Matsapha on Monday, August 24, 2026, marking the culmination of weeks of dedicated preparation by the HMCS maidens ahead of their participation in one of the country’s most significant cultural events.
The maidens were joined during rehearsals by Imbali from Vulamasango School and the Eswatini Nazarene Health Institutions (ENHI), adding strength to the preparations and fostering collaboration ahead of the national cultural gathering.
The ceremony was attended by members of the HMCS Executive Command, representatives from ENHI, Inkhosikati Make Ginindza of Nkhaba and other HMCS officers.
Speaking on behalf of the department’s Imbali Overseer, Assistant Commissioner Futhi Mhlanga, Chief Officer Mbuso Malandvwa Dlamini commended the maidens for their hard work, dedication and commitment throughout the rehearsal period.
Dlamini said the regiment was ready to represent HMCS with pride and uphold the department’s standards during the national event.
“The maidens have worked hard and demonstrated commitment throughout the preparations. They are ready to represent the department and participate in this important national cultural event,” he said.
In his address, Acting Commissioner General Luke Malindzisa thanked the maidens for responding to His Majesty King Mswati III’s call to participate in the annual Umhlanga Reed Dance.
He urged the maidens to maintain discipline and uphold the values and standards of HMCS throughout the ceremony, stressing that their conduct would reflect on the department as a whole.
Malindzisa further encouraged the Imbali to give their best when appearing before Their Majesties and to carry themselves with dignity and pride throughout the cultural event.
The 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance runs from August 25 to August 31, bringing together thousands of maidens from across the country. The main ceremony will be held at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence on August 31.
As HMCS Imbali joins the national gathering, the maidens will not only participate in a cherished cultural tradition but will also represent their department on a national stage.
With weeks of preparation behind them and a strong call for discipline from their leadership, HMCS Imbali now head to Umhlanga ready to showcase their commitment, pride and respect for Eswatini’s cultural heritage.
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(Courtesy Pic)
