By Siphesihle Dlamini
Nothing in the world unites people more than culture. Just like any other nation or tribe, emaSwati too, are brought together and united by cultural events including the much celebrated Buganu Festival.
Buganu Festival also known as Marula Festival brings the nation together each year and on this joyous event, emaSwati’s rich traditions and values, that bind the nation together, are showcased and celebrated.
It is celebrated throughout the Kingdom of Eswatini, with the royal family leading the festivities. His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Indlovukazi, the Queen Mother, travel to various regions of the Kingdom to mark the beginning of the Marula season which is symbolised by the Buganu Festival festivities.
At the heart of the Buganu Festival is the celebration of the marula fruit, which holds great significance in Eswatini culture.
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The Marula Season typically begins in mid-February and continues until May, marking the harvest of the Marula Fruit. As the green fruits fall to the ground, women and children gather and store them until they ripen to a creamy yellow colour.
Once ripe, the fruits are squeezed in water, sugar is added, and they are fermented and distilled into the famous Marula Beer, also known as Buganu.
The festival is also a time for song, dance, and gratitude for the provision of this fruit, which is not only used to brew the famous Marula Beer but also for various other purposes, such as skincare products.
Often referred to as the celebration of the ‘first fruit,’ following the Incwala ceremony, the Bugano Festival is also a symbol of cleansing and renewal as emaSwati enters a new year. During this ceremony, women network and showcase the different products they create within their communities.
The largest celebration takes place at the royal residence at Buhleni, where the royal family joins the nation in song and dance.
While the marula fruit is found across Africa, it holds a special place in the hearts of emaSwati.
It is not only seen as a food source but also as a magical healing ingredient with fertility properties. During the Buganu Festival, the King and Queen Mother are presented with Marula gifts and Marula Beer from each household. Only after they have partaken in the beer is the rest of the nation allowed to join in the celebration.
The Marula fruit’s significance extends beyond brewing beer in Eswatini. It has been developed into beauty products as part of Her Majesty, The Indlovukazi’s initiatives to create jobs and alleviate poverty for rural women. Under the company, Swati Secrets, the Marula fruit has been transformed into a range of beauty products, available in hotel packages and gift packages.
The Buganu Festival follows a timeline of events that further highlights the importance of the marula fruit in the Eswati culture.
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On the first day, the Queen Mother arrives at Buhleni Royal Residence, where women from the area present bucket-loads of marula fruit harvested over the past week. Dressed in traditional regalia, the women show respect, offer praise, and express gratitude.
On the second day, the main day of the festival, the King joins the Queen Mother, and the marula brew – Buganu, is presented to their Majesties. They partake in the brew, declaring the season open, and the occasion is celebrated with songs and dances specific to the festival.
Following this, Buganu is officially blessed and can be consumed throughout the country. A similar set of rituals takes place at Hlane Royal Residence, further emphasizing the significance of the Buganu Festival in Eswatini culture.
Some of the products produced from marula fruit:
1. Marula oil: This oil is extracted from the seeds of marula fruit and is known for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties. It is used in skincare products like lotions, serums, and hair treatments.
2. Marula liqueur: The fruit is fermented and distilled to create a delicious liqueur with a fruity and nutty flavour. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in cocktails.
3. Marula jam: The sweet and tangy flavour of marula fruit makes it perfect for making jams and preserves. Spread it on toast or use it as a topping for desserts.
4. Marula tea: The leaves of the marula tree can be dried and brewed to make a refreshing and aromatic tea. It is often consumed for its potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system and aiding digestion.
5. Marula body butter: marula oil is also used to create luxurious body butter that deeply moisturizes the skin. It is especially beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types.
6. Marula wine: Like the liqueur, marula fruit can be fermented to produce a delicious wine. It has a unique flavour profile that combines sweetness with a hint of tartness.