BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MBABANE– When Hip Hop meets the royal heartbeat of Eswatini, the result promises to be more than just a song — it becomes a cultural statement.
Young Zesh and Her Royal Highness Princess Buhlebetive are joining forces on ‘Giya’, a new cultural Hip Hop single set to drop on August 21, 2026, with the record blending contemporary sounds with traditional Swati musical elements in celebration of the annual Umhlanga (Reed Dance) Ceremony.
Produced by DJ Navie and released under Mabonwa Abulawe Records, the song is positioned as a cultural anthem aimed particularly at young people, with a strong message encouraging young women to embrace their heritage and participate in Umhlanga.
Young Zesh said the record was born from a desire to make culture resonate with a younger generation without losing its authenticity.
“Giya is a powerful cultural Hip Hop anthem that celebrates the beauty, pride, and heritage of Eswatini’s Umhlanga (Reed Dance) Ceremony.”
The artist said thousands of unmarried young women who participate in Umhlanga each year inspired the song’s message of unity, tradition and cultural pride.
Young Zesh delivers energetic verses encouraging young women to take pride in their identity, participate in the ceremony and uphold values passed down through generations.
Adding a royal touch to the collaboration, Princess Buhlebetive features on the song with a verse praising His Majesty King Mswati III while highlighting Umhlanga’s importance in preserving Swati customs and promoting national unity.
For Young Zesh, working with the princess elevated the project beyond an ordinary music collaboration.
“Having Princess Buhlebetive on the song made it even more meaningful because she brings a genuine connection to the culture and to the royal family.”
The rapper admitted that although the collaboration was an honour, it came with a few nerves.
“Honestly, working with the princess was an amazing experience, but I was also a little scared at first!”
With DJ Navie bringing the production together, Young Zesh said the creative process was “really beautiful”, describing the collaboration as a special experience.
At its heart, ‘Giya’ is intended to turn up the volume on cultural pride while giving young people a sound they can connect with.
“The main message behind ‘Giya’ is to encourage our young women to participate in and embrace Umhlanga. It is about being proud of who we are, where we come from and the culture that has been passed down to us.”
With its royal collaboration, Hip Hop energy and traditional Swati influence, ‘Giya’ is set to arrive as both a musical release and a celebration of Eswatini’s identity on August 21.
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(Courtesy Pic)
