BY PHUMELELE GAMEDZE
MBABANE — Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla has bid farewell to imbali living with disabilities ahead of Umhlanga, reaffirming Eswatini’s commitment to inclusion, dignity and equal participation in cultural traditions.
The colourful farewell at the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office carried a message that reached beyond the upcoming national ceremony: people living with disabilities matter and deserve to participate fully in the cultural life of the nation.
The imbali are preparing to join thousands of maidens at Ludzidzini Royal Residence for this year’s Umhlanga Reed Dance, one of Eswatini’s most significant cultural celebrations.
Their participation continues a journey that gained prominence last year when DPM Dladla personally joined and accompanied imbali living with disabilities during the cutting of the reed.
The gesture has helped shine a spotlight on inclusion within a tradition that brings emaSwati together from across the country.
For the maidens, being part of Umhlanga is more than simply attending a cultural event. It is an opportunity to stand alongside their peers, celebrate their heritage and demonstrate that disability should never determine whether someone belongs.
Chief Mhawu of the Down Syndrome Organisation expressed appreciation to the Deputy Prime Minister for championing the inclusion of people living with disabilities.
He thanked DPM Dladla for making the imbali feel recognised and valued, noting that her actions showed them that they matter and have a place in the nation’s cultural celebrations.
Chief Mhawu also commended the Deputy Prime Minister for her work in serving the nation of Eswatini.
Adding to the spirit of the farewell, Chief Mhawu donated T-shirts to the imbali living with disabilities as they prepare to participate in Umhlanga.
The donation demonstrated the importance of partnerships in making inclusion meaningful, with support extending beyond words to practical gestures.
Umhlanga is deeply rooted in Eswatini’s culture and identity, bringing thousands of maidens together in a celebration of tradition and unity.
The participation of imbali living with disabilities adds a powerful dimension to this year’s celebration. Their presence sends a clear message that cultural heritage is not limited by ability.
As they prepare to join their fellow maidens at Ludzidzini, their journey represents more than participation it is a statement of belonging.
At Umhlanga, they will not simply watch the tradition unfold. They will be part of it.
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