His Majesty King Mswati III has lauded the film ‘BakaNgwane’ as a vital narrative that encapsulates the richness of Eswatini’s cultural heritage.
The King articulated his sentiments through Prince Senzangakhona at the official premiere of the film held at Julio’s Cinelux, where the Head of State hailed the significance of storytelling in reinforcing national identity.
“In a world increasingly dominated by globalisation, ‘BakaNgwane’ plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating our unique traditions, values, and stories as emaSwati,” the King stated, emphasising that the film serves as a compelling narrative that captures the essence of the nation’s rich cultural tapestry.
The cinematic BakaNgwane is brought to life under the visionary leadership of Senator Pholile Shakantu, the film’s Executive Producer.
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The talented Sibusiso Dlamini produced the film, and the acclaimed director Shaft Moropane guided the creative process.
The film industry, according to His Majesty King Mswati III, is not just an artistic outlet but a crucial component of the nation’s economy.
“It generates employment, stimulates creativity, and promotes tourism,” he explained, outlining how projects like ‘BakaNgwane’ can open doors to international markets.
“Our stories must be heard and appreciated around the globe. Our nation must support this work, for it enriches our cultural heritage and fosters economic growth,” he added, calling for a collective effort among emaSwati to invest in and promote local cinema.
As the audience gathered for the premiere, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation and pride. The King’s words served as a rallying call for the youth of Eswatini, urging them to engage actively in the film industry.
“We must engage our youth, encouraging them to delve into filmmaking and storytelling, for they are the custodians of our cultural legacy,” he asserted.
By nurturing the talents of young filmmakers and storytellers, the King believes that Eswatini can build a thriving industry that honours its past while innovatively looking toward the future.”
“The success of ‘BakaNgwane’ and all other locally produced films depends not only on the talents of its creators but also on the support of every one of us,” the King stated, recognizing that the collective responsibility of the nation is fundamental to fostering a vibrant arts community.
Ingwenyama commended the talented cast and crew behind ‘BakaNgwane,’ whose dedication and creativity have brought this monumental project to life.
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“Your hard work and commitment to portraying our culture authentically are truly commendable. Local artists, actors, and technicians have poured their hearts into this piece, showcasing the immense talent that resides in our nation,” he expressed.
The King further articulated that ‘BakaNgwane’ stands as a beacon of what is possible when the nation unites its skills and creativity for a common purpose.
“To the executive team; your belief in our culture and commitment to our local film industry is not only commendable but also inspirational.
Your efforts have paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers, actors, and storytellers in Eswatini,” he noted, encouraging ongoing collaboration and innovation within the creative sector.
Appealing to the entire nation, the King called on emaSwati to rally together and promote ‘BakaNgwane’ far and wide.
“Share our stories, celebrate our artists, and attend local screenings.
Together, we can show the world the beauty and resilience of our culture while simultaneously enhancing the landscape of Eswatini’s film industry,”
he remarked, highlighting the importance of community support in nurturing local talent and narratives.
The King’s vision for the future is one of growth and expansion within the film industry.
“With your support, we can ensure that more films like ‘BakaNgwane’ are brought to life, enriching our cultural heritage for all to see,” he stated, urging everyone to dream bigger and pursue projects that reflect Eswatini’s heritage and creativity.
“Let us celebrate our artists, nurture our talents, and support our industry. Working together as a nation, we can ensure that our stories are told, our heritage is preserved, and our culture thrives for generations to come,” he concluded.