BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LUDZIDZINI – Their Majesties were joined by thousands of regiments at Ludzidzini Royal Residence during Kushiswa Kwelukhuni (Burning of the Log), the sacred ritual that marks the official conclusion of the Incwala Ceremony.
The day’s activities began with regiments ascending the mountains to fetch firewood, a deeply symbolic act that reflects unity, discipline and commitment to Eswatini’s cultural traditions. The return of the regiments and the subsequent burning of the firewood signified the formal close of the Incwala period.
Speaking during an interview at Ludzidzini Royal Residence with Babukisi Foundation, His Majesty’s Headman, Finyeza Mncina, described the day as one of great national importance. He explained that Kushiswa Kwelukhuni represents the final stage of Incwala, sealing weeks of sacred observances carried out under the leadership of His Majesty.
Mncina further explained the regalia worn by male regiments, noting that it varies according to Royal household affiliation. He said regiments from LaNqabane, also known as Lidwala (Inkhabave), wear the yellow stripe, while Ludzidzini regiments wear indlubu, the dotted regalia from Juluka. Hhohho regiments wear liketane (chain), while regiments from Mphumalanga and Shiselweni wear the white stripe.
He also detailed the ceremonial attire worn during Kushiswa Kwelukhuni. From head to toe, regiments wear inyoni without timphondvo, accompanied by ingula. Around the neck is simohlwane, while the body is adorned with inkhonyane together with umhlandla. On the right hand, regiments carry a halved lishoba, as sigeja is removed on this day. Two emashoba are worn – one on the forearm and another near the hand. Around the waist is ingwe (leopard skin) known as umdada, and tiphandla are worn on the ankles.
Commenting on the significance of the ceremony, Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe said the large numbers witnessed during this year’s Incwala were a clear indication that Emaswati continue to value, respect and support their culture. He noted that the day’s celebrations featured Incwala yelukhuni, the traditional dance performed during Kushiswa Kwelukhuni, which marks the official conclusion of the Incwala Ceremony.
The vibrant singing and dancing by the regiments, alongside the presence of His Majesty, brought the sacred season to a dignified and powerful close, reinforcing national unity and the continuity of Eswatini’s rich cultural heritage.
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