…Ntsima says it had been an honour to accompany His Majesty King Mswati III on arrived at the main arena at Ludzidzini for the main Umhlanga proceedings
BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE – Botswana Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship Tiroeaone Ntsima says he leaves the Kingdom of Eswatini with a deep sense of admiration for the country’s rich cultural heritage after combining a working visit focused on trade and regional partnerships with attendance of the 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance Ceremony.
Ntsima was in Eswatini representing Botswana President Duma Boko and the Government of Botswana, with his visit including participation in the 58th Eswatini International Trade Fair and the main day of the Umhlanga Reed Dance Ceremony at Ludzidzini Royal Residence.
The Botswana minister said his working visit provided an opportunity to strengthen trade, investment, entrepreneurship and regional cooperation while exploring opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
The 58th Eswatini International Trade Fair was held under the theme, “Unlocking Green Economy Opportunities for Sustainable Trade Promotion,” providing a platform for businesses and stakeholders to engage on sustainable economic opportunities.
Ntsima said his participation in the Trade Fair formed part of Botswana’s broader interest in strengthening economic ties with Eswatini and advancing regional cooperation.
“I am currently in the Kingdom of Eswatini on a working visit, representing Mr President and the Government of Botswana, for the 58th Eswatini International Trade Fair,” he posted on his social media while in the kingdom.
He said the visit presented an opportunity to strengthen trade, investment, entrepreneurship and regional cooperation, while exploring opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
The minister subsequently attended the 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance, where he represented President Boko at the cultural event.
Ntsima said the experience had left a lasting impression on him, particularly the manner in which Eswatini continues to preserve and celebrate its cultural heritage.
“As I conclude my visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini, I leave with a deep sense of admiration for the richness, pride and enduring strength of the Eswatini cultural heritage,” he said.
He described witnessing the 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance at Ludzidzini Royal Residence as a “truly remarkable experience”, saying it showcased discipline, unity, tradition and national pride in a powerful celebration of identity.
Ntsima also described it as an honour to accompany His Majesty King Mswati III as the King arrived at the main arena at Ludzidzini for the main Umhlanga proceedings.
“As a guest of His Majesty, I am deeply impressed by the vibrant display of Eswatini’s rich culture and heritage,” he said.
He singled out the songs, dances, colourful traditional attire and pride displayed by the Imbali as particularly impressive, saying they reflected Eswatini’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its traditions.
The minister extended appreciation to Their Majesties, the Royal Family, the Government and the people of Eswatini for the hospitality extended to the Botswana delegation.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Botswana, I extend my sincere appreciation to Their Majesties, the Royal Family, the Government and the people of Eswatini for the warmth and hospitality extended to us,” he said.
Ntsima said the strong bonds of friendship between Botswana and Eswatini should continue to grow, anchored in their shared values, culture and commitment to strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
His visit therefore brought together two important dimensions of bilateral relations – economic cooperation through the Eswatini International Trade Fair and people-to-people and cultural ties through Umhlanga.
Ntsima’s attendance at the main Umhlanga ceremony placed Botswana among the regional countries represented at the annual cultural gathering.
The Botswana minister was among the dignitaries who witnessed the main day of the ceremony at Ludzidzini, alongside prominent regional figures, including former Botswana President Ian Khama and former South African President Jacob Zuma.
His participation also provided an opportunity for Botswana to engage with Eswatini beyond cultural diplomacy, with his Trade Fair programme focusing on areas such as trade, investment, entrepreneurship, regional integration and sustainable economic development.
As he concluded his visit, Ntsima expressed optimism that the existing relationship between the two neighbouring countries would continue to deepen, with cultural understanding and economic cooperation serving as important pillars of the partnership.
His message from Eswatini was ultimately one of appreciation for the Kingdom’s culture and optimism for stronger Botswana-Eswatini cooperation.
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