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<\/p>\nBy Kwanele Dhladhla<\/p>\n
His Majesty King Mswati III has praised the resounding success of this year\u2019s Umhlanga (Reed Dance) Ceremony, describing it as a celebration that continues to inspire pride, unity, and international recognition for the Kingdom of Eswatini.<\/p>\n
Speaking at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence on Wednesday, when receiving tetfulo amounting to a staggering E18.9 million, the King said he was deeply impressed by the ever-rising number of maidens who participated in the sacred cultural event.<\/p>\n
Thousands of Imbali from across Eswatini, joined by delegations of maidens from various African states, graced the ceremony, reinforcing its position as one of the continent\u2019s most cherished cultural festivals.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Umhlanga Ceremony is not just an event; it is a symbol of purity, dignity, and African identity,\u201d His Majesty declared. \u201cEvery year, the numbers of maidens grow, and this demonstrates the value that families and communities attach to preserving our traditions.<\/p>\n
It is also a reflection of God\u2019s blessing upon our land, and indeed this year, the rains that accompanied the event were a clear sign of divine favour.\u201d<\/p>\n
The tetfulo gifts poured in from all sectors of society, symbolizing national solidarity and appreciation for the values upheld by the Reed Dance.<\/p>\n
Contributions came from government, princes, politicians, companies, the Pan African Tourism Board, and numerous individuals. The donations included cattle, groceries, toiletries for the maidens, and substantial sums of money.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Among the most notable contributions was the E1 million package from subsidiaries of the Inyatsi Group. Eswatini Mobile, the Clinic Group, Maloma Colliery, Construction Associates, Lidwala Insurance, and Inyatsi Construction each donated E150 000, while Eswatini Meat Industries, under the group, offered E100 000. The King warmly acknowledged these gifts, emphasizing that such generosity strengthens the cultural bond that unites the nation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe commitment shown by companies and individuals is a testament to the strong partnership between culture and development. When we preserve and honour our heritage, we also build the foundation for progress and prosperity,\u201d His Majesty said.<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s Umhlanga was not only a national celebration but also an international spectacle. Distinguished African leaders, including former South African President Jacob Zuma, and tourists from overseas joined the festivities.<\/p>\n
The King said the growing global interest in the Reed Dance underscored its role as a cultural export that enhances Eswatini\u2019s standing in the world.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Umhlanga is now a global attraction. Visitors from across Africa and beyond come to witness this extraordinary display of unity, discipline, and tradition.<\/p>\n
It showcases the beauty of Eswatini, our people, and our values,\u201d His Majesty noted.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"By Kwanele Dhladhla His Majesty King Mswati III has praised the resounding success of this year\u2019s Umhlanga (Reed…","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3000,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"iawp_total_views":0,"csco_display_header_overlay":false,"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","csco_page_load_nextpost":"","csco_post_video_location":[],"csco_post_video_location_hash":"","csco_post_video_url":"","csco_post_video_bg_start_time":0,"csco_post_video_bg_end_time":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,24,25,26],"tags":[73,48,49,58],"class_list":["post-2994","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-eswatini-daily-news","category-future","category-national","category-swaziland","tag-eswatini","tag-feature","tag-human-interest","tag-national","cs-entry","cs-video-wrap"],"yoast_head":"\n<\/div><\/strong><\/p>\n