BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MPISI FARM – Thousands of Imbali turned Mpisi Farm into a vibrant celebration of culture, unity and youthful energy on Thursday, August 27, 2026, as they gathered for the Umhlanga 2026 reed-cutting exercise, proudly carrying forward one of Eswatini’s most cherished traditions.
From the early hours, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. Powerful traditional songs rang across the fields, hands clapped in rhythm and the colourful sight of Imbali in their traditional attire brought the reed-cutting grounds to life.
The impressive turnout demonstrated the commitment of the younger generation to keeping Eswatini’s cultural heritage alive, as thousands came together to fulfil their cultural responsibility.
Her Royal Highness Princess Sakhizwe, who joined the Imbali at Mpisi Farm, was impressed by the atmosphere and praised the young women for the enthusiasm they have shown throughout Umhlanga 2026.
“The Imbali have shown so much excitement, energy and enthusiasm throughout Umhlanga, and it is beautiful to see them embracing their culture with such pride,” HRH Princess Sakhizwe said.
But her message went beyond the celebration of culture.
She encouraged the Imbali to channel the same energy, discipline and determination they demonstrate during Umhlanga into building their futures, particularly through entrepreneurship.
“I encourage the Imbali to start businesses and use their talents and energy to create sustainable livelihoods, create opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of the country,” she said.
With the Princess’s words resonating across the gathering, the Imbali proceeded into the reed fields to undertake the day’s cultural duty.
Working in groups, they cut, gathered and bundled the reeds, supporting one another throughout the exercise. What could have been a demanding task became a vibrant expression of teamwork, as singing and rhythmic clapping continued around the fields.
Leading and supporting the regiment were Liphovela LaZuma, Emazinyane and Indvuna yeMbali Bongiwe “Vivane” Hlatjwako, who remained alongside the Imbali during the exercise.
The reed cutting holds deep cultural significance, providing the Imbali with an opportunity to participate directly in a tradition that connects generations of EmaSwati.
For the young women, every reed gathered represented more than the completion of a task. It represented their contribution to a cultural tradition that continues to define the identity and heritage of the Kingdom.
After successfully completing the cutting exercise, the Imbali made their way back to the campsite carrying their reeds proudly.
The return sparked another burst of celebration, with singing and dancing filling the campsite as the young women marked the completion of their cultural duty.
The scene captured the spirit of Umhlanga 2026 perfectly — thousands of young women united by culture, working together with discipline while celebrating the heritage they have inherited.
Yet Day Three also carried a message about the future.
As the Imbali carried their reeds from the fields, they were reminded that they can carry something else with them beyond Umhlanga: the confidence, discipline, teamwork and determination needed to build businesses and create opportunities.
At Mpisi Farm, tradition met aspiration.
The Imbali demonstrated that preserving culture and preparing for the future can move hand in hand.
And as the reeds were carried proudly back to the campsite, one thing was unmistakable — Umhlanga 2026 is not only keeping Eswatini’s heritage alive; it is inspiring a new generation to carry that heritage forward while building a stronger future.
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