BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MBABANE – His Majesty King Mswati III could not hide his joy for this year’s tetfulo as he said it will go a long way in assisting in the ongoing Incwala ceremony.
The King expressed heartfelt gratitude to the companies and individuals who contributed gifts, or tetfulo, valued at over E21 million. The event, held at Ngabezweni Royal Residence, reflected the nation’s unity and deep commitment to cultural preservation.
This was during the fifth day of the ongoing Little Incwala.
The offerings included cash, cattle, groceries, clothing, shoes, bags, water, and alcohol. Participants ranged from government officials and politicians to businesses and private citizens, exemplifying Eswatini’s tradition of communal support. This cultural practice extends beyond royal events, playing a vital role in both chiefdom and family-level ceremonies.
His Majesty highlighted the unprecedented nature of this year’s contributions, calling it one of the largest in history. He attributed the milestone to economic growth and increased production within the country.
“We hope God and the ancestors will bless you with more rain for more production,” the King said, underscoring the spiritual significance of the contributions.
By late afternoon, the royal residence was filled with activity as vehicles delivered 330 cattle alongside other gifts. His Majesty personally toured the offerings, acknowledging the contributors’ dedication and generosity.
Prominent contributors included companies such as Meat Industries, Inyatsi Group, Maloma Mine, Mvelase Mining, USA Distillers, Stwfanutti, Central Bank, MVA, SLOMOES, EEC, and PSPF. Additionally, the government, cabinet, ESERA, Huawei, and EPTC were among those presenting cattle to support the ongoing Incwala ceremony.
In his closing remarks, His Majesty applauded the nation’s unity and commitment to cultural preservation. He emphasized that tetfulo symbolizes Eswatini’s communal spirit, fostering solidarity and safeguarding the country’s cultural identity. His Majesty encouraged the nation to uphold these traditions, which continue to reinforce the values of unity and shared heritage.
