BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
LUDZIDZINI– South African cultural personality Nkosikhona ‘Phakel’umthakathi’ Ndabandaba joined thousands of eMaswati and visitors at Ludzidzini on Monday as the Kingdom celebrated the main day of the 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance.
Ndabandaba, who is popularly known as Phakel’umthakathi, was among the guests who attended the colourful ceremony and watched the Imbali take part in the traditional festivities before His Majesty King Mswati III performed Kudlalisela.
The KwaZulu-Natal-based cultural figure said he was pleased to be in Eswatini to support His Majesty in celebrating the country’s culture and heritage.
He also used his presence at the royal residence to call on men to play their part in protecting girls and women.
Ndabandaba said men had a responsibility to support efforts aimed at protecting the girl child and addressing gender-based violence.
Phakel’umthakathi has gained prominence in South Africa through his activities as a cultural figure, as well as his involvement in campaigns against undocumented immigration.
He has been at the forefront of anti-illegal immigration campaigns in South Africa, including the June 30 demonstrations held in several cities.
In July, he said his movement would intensify efforts against undocumented immigration and called for stricter enforcement of South Africa’s immigration laws. He has also been involved in campaigns calling for South Africans to be prioritised in employment and business opportunities.
His appearance at Umhlanga brought together his cultural activities in South Africa with his participation in one of Eswatini’s biggest traditional ceremonies.
The 2026 Umhlanga main day was held at Ludzidzini on Monday, with maidens from across Eswatini and beyond taking part in the annual ceremony.
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