BY MBONO MDLULI
LOBAMBA – His Majesty King Mswati III has sent his best wishes to the Imbali (maidens) of Eswatini as they take part in the Shiselweni Reed Dance (Umhlanga) Ceremony, the second edition of this year’s national cultural ceremony.
The King extended his well-wishes on Thursday, 2 October 2025, during a press conference at Ludzidzini Royal Residence. The briefing was initially convened to report on his participation at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, but His Majesty also took the opportunity to share words of encouragement with the young women who are now gathering at the Mbangweni Royal Residence in Nhlangano for the three-day cultural event.
The Shiselweni Umhlanga, which runs from Friday 3 October to Sunday 5 October 2025, is a continuation of the annual Reed Dance, an important national tradition that celebrates purity, unity, and cultural heritage. Thousands of maidens are expected to attend, representing chiefdoms from across the Kingdom.
His Majesty highlighted that Their Majesties had made special preparations to ensure that the maidens are well looked after during the festival, especially given the cold weather conditions in Nhlangano. According to reports, the southern town is experiencing low temperatures, with Friday recording a maximum of 13 degrees Celsius and Saturday expected to reach only 17. To provide comfort, mobile showers with hot water have been set up at the Mbangweni Royal Residence to help protect the maidens from the harsh weather.
On Friday, buses transported the maidens to the Royal Residence, where they were required to register for the event. They also brought along their reeds, which will be formally delivered to Their Majesties on Saturday. The highlight of the celebrations will take place on Sunday, when the maidens perform the traditional dances before Their Majesties and thousands of spectators.
The Shiselweni edition of Umhlanga has grown in stature over the years, attracting both local and international attention as a vibrant expression of Swazi culture and identity. The event not only honours the Queen Mother but also reinforces the values of unity and pride among the youth.
In his message, the King expressed confidence that this year’s ceremony would once again demonstrate the enduring strength of Swazi tradition. “We wish our maidens the very best as they embark on this important cultural journey. The Umhlanga continues to be a symbol of our values, our identity, and the pride of the nation,” His Majesty said.
The Shiselweni Umhlanga promises to be a memorable occasion, blending tradition, heritage, and youthful energy in celebration of Eswatini’s rich cultural tapestry.
