BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Their Majesties have received a total of 20 cattle from the country’s uniformed forces in 2025, as a gesture of loyalty, respect, and appreciation for Their continued guidance and leadership.
The gifts came from the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF), His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS), Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), and the Eswatini National Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (ENFRES). Each of the institutions presented their offerings during their respective commemorative events held throughout the year.
Of the 20 cattle, 12 were presented to His Majesty King Mswati III, while eight were given to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi.
UEDF Leads with Army Day Presentation
The first presentation of the year took place on March 28, 2025, during the UEDF Day, commonly known as Army Day, held at the Defence Headquarters in Nokwane. On this occasion, the Defence Force presented five cattle to Their Majesties — three to His Majesty the King and two to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi.
The event was marked by His Majesty’s announcement that the UEDF would conduct a nationwide recruitment exercise across all 59 tinkhundla centres, aimed at strengthening the force and creating more opportunities for young Emaswati. The recruitment process is currently ongoing.
Correctional Services Express Gratitude
The His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) followed suit on June 20, 2025, during the Correctional Services Day at the Matsapha Correctional Services College.
HMCS presented five cattle to Their Majesties — three to His Majesty, who is the HMCS Commissioner-in-Chief, and two to Her Majesty — as a token of gratitude for Their support and presence at the event.
Commissioner General Phindile Dlamini said the gesture symbolised the Correctional Services’ respect for the monarchy’s continued commitment to national unity, rehabilitation, and human development.
Police Honour Their Majesties at 118th Anniversary
On August 15, 2025, the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) made its presentation during the 22nd Police Day and Passing Out Parade held at the Matsapha Police Academy. The REPS, which was also celebrating 118 years since its establishment, donated five cattle — three to His Majesty the King, who is the REPS Commissioner-in-Chief, and two to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi.
National Commissioner (NatCom) Vusi Manoma Masango noted that the gesture reflected the Service’s appreciation of the monarchy’s unwavering guidance and support in upholding peace, security, and law enforcement across the Kingdom.
Fire Service Rounds Off Year with Final Presentation
The final donation came from the Eswatini National Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (ENFRES) on October 24, 2025, during the Eswatini National Fire Day, held at the Matsapha International Airport. They donated three cattle to His Majesty the King and two to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi. However, Her Majesty was presented in absentia, as she is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on an official visit.
This year’s event also marked the 50th Anniversary of the Fire Service, which His Majesty King Mswati III, in his capacity as ENFRES Commander-in-Chief, commended for its versatility and dedication in protecting lives and property nationwide.
Through these symbolic gestures, the country’s uniformed forces have reaffirmed their deep loyalty and respect for the monarchy, reflecting the strong relationship that continues to unite Eswatini’s leadership with its disciplined services.
