BY THEMBA ZWANE
BUHLENI – His Majesty Mswati III has urged members of Lutsango to take full advantage of a new HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, recently introduced in Eswatini.
The King was speaking at Buhleni Royal Residence during the first leg of the 2026 Buganu Ceremony, where thousands of Lutsango members gathered to celebrate culture and heritage.
His Majesty welcomed the introduction of the innovative HIV prevention medication, describing it as a major boost in the Kingdom’s ongoing fight against the pandemic. Lenacapavir, produced by American pharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences, was recently delivered to Eswatini and Zambia as part of a market-shaping initiative under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
The global HIV initiative was established by former United States President Donald Trump to accelerate access to HIV treatment and prevention in high-burden countries.
“We appreciate the introduction of the new HIV/AIDS drug in Eswatini. This will help the nation manage the incurable disease,” said His Majesty.
The King emphasised the importance of safeguarding both personal and national health, encouraging Lutsango to embrace the new prevention method. He stressed that a healthy nation forms the foundation for sustainable development and prosperity.
In the same address, His Majesty commended Lutsango for their impressive turnout at this year’s Buganu Ceremony. He said their growing numbers set a strong example for the younger generation and reinforced unity and cultural pride.
Despite the recent enlargement of the Buhleni arena, attendance exceeded expectations, with the expanded space proving insufficient to accommodate the swelling numbers. The King indicated that further extension of the arena would be necessary ahead of next year’s ceremony.
Beyond matters of health and culture, His Majesty reminded Lutsango of their critical role in society. He encouraged them to share ideas on effective household management and to continue instilling moral values in children as guardians of the nation’s future.
Above all, the King called on Lutsango to remain steadfast in preserving Eswatini’s culture and heritage, ensuring that future generations inherit a strong, united and healthy Kingdom.
#BuganuCeremony #HisMajestyTheKing #BuhleniRoyalResidence #Culture #Eswatini
