BY NELIWE NGUBANE
LUDZIDZINI– As the vibrant songs and dances of Umhlanga 2026 draw to a close, Indvuna Yembali Bongiwe “Vivane” Hlatjwako has urged Imbali to carry home more than memories of the cultural celebration – encouraging them to return to school and make education their pathway to success.
Speaking at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence on the final day of the Umhlanga Reed Dance, Hlatjwako reminded the maidens that their journey does not end when they leave the royal residence, but continues in the classroom where their future is shaped.
She encouraged Imbali to take their education seriously, study hard and remain focused as they return to their respective chiefdoms and prepare for their upcoming examinations.
“Hold onto your education because education is the key to success. As you go back to school, study hard and prepare well for your examinations. I wish you all the best,” said Hlatjwako.
Her message came as thousands of Imbali prepared to depart Ludzidzini following a colourful Umhlanga celebration that brought together maidens, members of the royal family, dignitaries, visitors and spectators.
Hlatjwako described this year’s Umhlanga as a beautiful and successful celebration, emphasising that its beauty was not only seen through the participation of Imbali, but through everyone who contributed to the cultural spectacle.
She also extended her congratulations to His Majesty King Mswati III on his 40 years on the throne and his 58th birthday, describing the milestones as significant moments celebrated during this year’s festivities.
As the maidens prepared to travel back to their homes, Hlatjwako wished them safe journeys and encouraged them to return safely to their families and schools.
The send-off marked the conclusion of another chapter of Umhlanga 2026, with Imbali leaving Ludzidzini carrying the pride of their cultural participation and a strong reminder that preserving tradition and pursuing education can go hand in hand.
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