BY NONTSETSELELO DLAMINI (INTERN)
SITEKI — Culture, music and road safety messages filled the air in Siteki as communities gathered for an Ingwenyama Cup activation supported by the Swaziland Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF), celebrating tradition while promoting safer roads.
The event formed part of activities linked to the prestigious Ingwenyama Cup, which brings together communities from across the country through sport and culture. Organisers used the gathering to reach residents with road safety awareness messages while also showcasing the richness of Swazi traditions through song, dance and traditional attire.
Addressing the crowd, The SMVAF Board chairman Zithulele Gina said the Ingwenyama Cup continues to play an important role beyond football by creating a platform where communities can engage on issues that affect their daily lives. “The Ingwenyama Cup will continue with strength because it is not only about football,” he said. “It is also a platform where we bring our people together while educating them about road safety and the importance of protecting lives on our roads.”
He added that the tournament provides an opportunity for communities from different regions to come together while showcasing their culture. “This competition allows every region and every chiefdom to shine,” Gina said. “Through the Ingwenyama Cup we celebrate our culture, but we must also remind people that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.”
The cultural aspect of the event was further emphasised by Prince Hlangabeza, who thanked SMVAF and other stakeholders for supporting the tournament and helping preserve Swazi traditions. “Swati attire must be respected in every category for both men and women,” the Prince said. “Judges should also consider how competitors present themselves because participants must always come dressed in their very best.”
He also educated attendees about kuvunula, the traditional Swati dress code, explaining that it reflects different stages of life and highlights the beauty of Swazi identity. The cultural competitions attracted energetic performances from youth groups emajaha, who entertained the audience with vibrant singing and dance routines.
Some groups used their performances to deliver road safety messages, blending culture with awareness. Lutsango also competed fiercely, displaying colourful traditional attire, powerful voices and impressive dance moves as they battled for top honours.
As the celebrations continued, SMVAF also recognised members of the public who participated in road safety surveys during the event. Winners were rewarded for their participation, highlighting the importance of community involvement in promoting safer roads.
Organisers said combining cultural celebrations with public education ensures that the Ingwenyama Cup continues to unite communities while promoting both cultural pride and road safety awareness.
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