Umhlanga Reed Dance Main Day Thrills Thousands at Ludzidzini Royal Residence
By Sebenele Ndlovu
The climax of Eswatini’s annual Umhlanga Reed Dance ceremony unfolded in grand style at Ludzidzini Royal Residence, as Imbali (maidens) from across the Kingdom and beyond showcased their cultural pride before Their Majesties.
Led by Inkhosatana Sakhizwe, Liphovela LaZuma, and the newly appointed Indvuna yeMbali Bongiwe Hlatjwako, Imbali from South Africa, including Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal Natal danced in high spirits, celebrating tradition, purity, and unity.
This day, regarded as the most significant of the eight-day cultural event, carries deep cultural, spiritual, and symbolic meaning for the Swazi nation.
The ceremony drew thousands of Emaswati and international visitors, filling the royal arena to near capacity.
Among the dignitaries and guests were South Africa’s King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, former South African President Jacob Zuma, Botswana’s former President Ian Khama, Princess Sibahle’s husband Yassin Monteiro Nunes, Emakhosikati, and members of the Swazi royal family.
Princess Sihle Mdluli, Liphovela to King Misuzulu, led her regiment of Zulu maidens from eMashobeni Royal Residence and was seen dancing proudly before Their Majesties and the Zulu King himself.
In a parallel highlight, King Misuzulu formally engaged his fiancée, Ndlunkulu okaMawewe, who also led the Zulu maidens during the festivities.
Imbali expressed appreciation and honor as His Majesty King Mswati III did Kudlalisela to Imbali, in a way of expressing his gratitude to the maidens.
Inclusivity was celebrated this year as Imbali, living with disabilities, took part in the dance, supported by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office. Their participation underscored the unifying and inclusive nature of the cultural event.
On the same platform, Indvuna yeMbali Bongiwe Hlatjwako, together with princesses from the Hhohho region, Inkhosatana yakaBhamsakhe Themabheka and Inkhosothando of Engabezweni, demonstrated their traditional dance skills before Their Majesties, captivating the crowd.
The maidens, dressed in vibrant beadwork, sashes, and traditional attire, formed large dancing circles (umkhumbi) as they sang, stamped their feet, and chanted rhythmically.
Their performance symbolized purity, discipline, loyalty to the monarchy, and respect for Swazi customs.
The Umhlanga Reed Dance, one of Eswatini’s flagship cultural tourism events, continues to place the nation on the global map. It is both a rite of passage for young maidens and a reaffirmation of the Queen Mother’s role as “Mother of the Nation.”
As the sun set on the main day, the event left a strong reminder of Eswatini’s commitment to cultural preservation, national pride, and unity – drawing the admiration of both locals and international guests who witnessed the deeply symbolic occasion.
