BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA
MBANGWENI – Education and Training Minister Hon. Owen Nxumalo encouraged Imbali to take the lessons learnt during Umhlanga beyond the royal residence and apply them in their everyday lives.
Speaking during the main day proceedings of the Umhlanga Reed Dance at Mbangweni Royal Residence, Nxumalo encouraged the maidens to make practical use of the health and skills lessons shared with them during the annual ceremony.
The minister said the value of Umhlanga should not end when the maidens leave the gathering. Instead, the knowledge they receive should influence the choices they make and the way they conduct themselves in their communities.
His message placed emphasis on the educational side of the ceremony, where thousands of young women from different parts of the country come together while also being exposed to lessons intended to support their wellbeing and personal development.
Nxumalo also applauded the large turnout, noting that Imbali had travelled from schools, colleges and universities across Eswatini to take part in the ceremony. He described their participation as a demonstration of love and devotion to His Majesty King Mswati III and the country.
The gathering at Mbangweni brought together Imbali from different backgrounds, with the young women becoming part of a ceremony that combines cultural practices, education and communal participation.
For many of the maidens, the experience extends beyond the colourful displays at the Arena. The lessons shared during the event are intended to give them information that they can carry with them after the ceremony.
As Umhlanga 2026 reaches its main day, Nxumalo’s call puts the spotlight on what happens after the singing, dancing and celebrations and whether the knowledge gained during the ceremony becomes part of the maidens’ everyday lives.
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