– King’s message as thousands of Imbali begin reed-harvesting journey
BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
NGABEZWENI — “We must respect one another, follow the guidance of our leaders and make sure that everyone returns safely.”
This was the powerful message delivered to thousands of Imbali as His Majesty King Mswati III commissioned them to begin their journey to the designated reed-harvesting areas ahead of Thursday’s Umhlanga reed-cutting exercise.
The message placed safety, discipline and mutual respect at the heart of Umhlanga 2026, as thousands of young women left Ngabezweni in song and high spirits for Masundvwini and Mpisi Farm.
Under this year’s arrangements, the younger maidens will proceed to Masundvwini, while the senior Imbali will undertake the reed-cutting exercise at Mpisi Farm.
His Majesty’s message was communicated through Indvuna yeMbali Bongiwe “Vivane” Hlatjwako, who reminded the maidens that while Umhlanga is a time of celebration, cultural pride and excitement, participants also carry a responsibility to look after themselves and one another.
The commissioning marked another important stage in this year’s Reed Dance, with the actual cutting of the reeds scheduled for Thursday, August 27.
As the Imbali departed Ngabezweni, the atmosphere quickly transformed into a colourful cultural spectacle.
Songs echoed among the groups of maidens as they walked together towards their respective destinations, displaying the enthusiasm, unity and pride that have become synonymous with Umhlanga.
For many of the participants, the journey is about much more than collecting reeds.
It represents an opportunity to take part in one of Eswatini’s most treasured cultural traditions while building friendships, learning discipline and strengthening a sense of belonging among young women from communities across the country.
The maidens were further encouraged to follow instructions from their leaders throughout the journey and harvesting exercise.
“Respect, discipline and safety must remain a priority throughout the journey,” was another message communicated to the Imbali.
Adding to the excitement was Liphovela LaZuma, who joined the maidens as they embarked on their journey towards the reed-harvesting areas.
Walking alongside the Imbali, her presence contributed to the vibrant atmosphere and the strong sense of togetherness surrounding the departure.
The reeds will be harvested on Thursday as the ceremony moves into one of its most physically demanding and culturally significant stages.
Reed cutting remains a central part of Umhlanga, with the harvested reeds forming an important component of the traditional activities associated with the ceremony.
Beyond the harvesting itself, however, the exercise continues to promote teamwork and responsibility.
Thousands of young women travel, work and sing together, sharing an experience that connects generations and keeps Eswatini’s cultural traditions alive.
The emphasis on safety is therefore equally important, particularly as large numbers of maidens move between Ngabezweni and the harvesting areas.
The call for every participant to return safely reinforces the collective responsibility carried by the maidens, their leaders and those supporting the ceremony.
As thousands of singing Imbali continue their journey towards Masundvwini and Mpisi Farm, Umhlanga 2026 is gathering momentum ahead of Thursday’s reed cutting.
The scenes of youthful energy, song and colourful traditional attire tell a broader story — that of a generation of young women proudly taking its place in preserving one of Eswatini’s most recognised cultural traditions.
At the centre of it all remains the simple but significant message: respect one another, follow the guidance of your leaders and ensure everyone returns safely.
