BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LUDZIDZINI – Elders of the Nazareth Baptist Church have described Eswatini’s hospitality as “100 percent”, saying worshippers from South Africa have felt welcomed, respected and at home throughout their spiritual visit to the Kingdom.
The elders revealed this during an interview with Eswatini Positive News on May 31, 2026, at Ludzidzini Royal Residence during the Umgidi Ceremony of the Nazareth Baptist Church.
The event was graced by the presence of His Majesty King Mswati III, Her Majesty the Indlovukazi, Emakhosikati, Emazinyane and other dignitaries.
Speaking on behalf of visiting worshippers, Sandile Shembe, who is visiting Eswatini for the third time, said the warm reception extended by Emaswati since their arrival had left a lasting impression on church members.
“We have received love, respect and support everywhere we have gone. The hospitality of the people of Eswatini is 100 percent,” said Shembe.
He said worshippers had enjoyed a peaceful and spiritually uplifting stay in the country, adding that many members felt a strong sense of belonging because of the kindness shown by local communities.
Shembe is among thousands of worshippers accompanying His Holiness Unyazi LweZulu during his ongoing spiritual visit to Eswatini. The church leader arrived in the country on May 19, 2026, through the Lavumisa Border Post for a series of nationwide prayer gatherings, church services and royal engagements.
During the interview, other church elders also reflected on the significance of the Umgidi celebrations and the values that guide the church.
Zakhele Msinga and Sihle Cele explained that Limbatha, a special attire worn during Umgidi, is only adorned when permission has been given by His Holiness Unyazi LweZulu. They said the attire is more than ceremonial clothing, but a symbol of obedience, faith, unity and respect for church teachings.
“We wear Limbatha when the instruction has been given. It represents discipline, commitment and unity among worshippers,” they explained.
Meanwhile, Bhekinkosi Xulu of Eshowe Ezazi Temple shared the spiritual significance of Inkozo Imigidi, saying the sacred gathering is rooted in biblical teachings and serves to strengthen faith among worshippers.
He further praised the reception received in Eswatini, saying church members had experienced exceptional hospitality since crossing the border into the Kingdom.
Throughout his visit, His Holiness Unyazi LweZulu has travelled to several key locations, including Esabelweni semaSwati in Mahlanya, Buhleni Royal Residence and Mpumalanga Royal Residence, where he has led prayer services and held engagements aimed at promoting spiritual growth, unity and national harmony.
As the Umgidi celebrations continue at Ludzidzini Royal Residence, church elders say the warmth shown by Emaswati will remain one of the most memorable aspects of their visit, further strengthening the long-standing relationship between the Nazareth Baptist Church and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
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