By Mfanufikile Khathwane (Intern)
MANZINI – In a historic first, Manzini North Inkhundla hosted the Culture Day for Persons with Disabilities how May 31, 2025 celebrating diversity and inclusion through traditional music, dance, and education.
The vibrant event was organized by Langalethu Charity Organisation in partnership with the Sunscreen Drive and Strength to Cope Foundation.
The event was held under the theme “Kute Tibi Tendlu” “Let there be no shame in our home” the event boldly addressed cultural taboos surrounding disability and abuse.
Sikhulile Dlamini from Strength to Cope Organization called for an end to the harmful narrative of “Tibi Tendlu”, which often silences abuse survivors. “There is no such thing as Tibi Tendlu. Abuse is abuse,” she declared. She further urged parents to protect their children, stressing that exploiting them for financial gain is unacceptable. “Enough is enough,” she said. “It’s time for justice and change” she added.
The event was attended by Manzini North MP Sifiso Mashayinkonjane Nhlengetfwa, who praised the organizers for prioritizing people with disabilities. He pledged to advocate for increased disability grants and donated E2 000 to Langalethu Charity Organisation. He also promised that the Inkhundla would explore ways to provide the group with a vehicle to reach more communities.
Bongiwe Dlamini, co-founder of the Sunscreen Drive, shared how her organization supports people living with albinism by visiting schools, nurturing talents, and providing sunscreen. She emphasized how events like these fuel motivation and raise awareness.
Representing the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, was Manzini branch Social Worker Mfanawenkhosi Simelane. He thanked organizations and encouraged the celebration of culture and diversity. He also rewarded participants who answered quiz questions correctly with E10 each.
Siphelele Dludlu, who holds a degree in Mental Health from the University of Eswatini, educated the audience about the importance of a healthy diet and advised them on diseases that can be caused by poor nutrition. Although he studied medicine, he has a strong interest in food and nutrition.
Khumbuzile Mbhamali who lives with disabilities is a proud LiSwati and second-year student at the University of Eswatini studying Bachelor of Art (BA) in Humanities, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Disability is not a weakness. It is a platform to show our resilience”.
As communities continue to embrace such initiatives, Eswatini moves closer to becoming a society where no one is left behind and where disability is seen not as a limitation, but as a source of strength.
