Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Reed Dance Ceremony ended on a high note as over 120 000 maidens from all over the country and beyond the borders gave a colourful display before Their Majesties and special guests at Ludzidzini Royal Residence yesterday.
The last day of the ceremony also attracted thousands of spectators from all over the world, who watched in awe as the maidens displayed spectacular performances and showcased the beauty of Swazi culture.
The ceremony in celebration of the girl child continues to be one of the country’s popular events as it brings the world together judging by the many nationalities who gathered on the last day. His Majesty was joined by special guests in King Letsie III of Lesotho, Former president of South Africa Jacob Zuma and Former Botswana president Ian Khama.
The King’s guests also included several tribal leaders from South Africa.
Inkhosatana Sakhizwe, who has since taken over the reins as the leader of the regiment, was also equal to the task as she became a show stopper in the literal sense with her well-polished dance skills before the multitudes present.
The arena was filled to capacity as the nation, parents and Imbali adhered to the King’s call. Ludzidzini Royal Residence Imbali showed the way in their rhythmic, energetic, colourful and orderly dancing led by Imbali leader Princess Sakhizwe and acting Indvuna Bongiwe ‘Vivane’ Hlatjwako they danced to ‘Sibonga kutalwa kweNgwenyama’.
Maidens from across the borders, emaNdebele and those from KwaZulu-Natal also took to the stage and showcased their native dances.
Ngabezweni Royal Residence Inkhosatana Princess Makhosothando and Bhamsakhe Imbali leader Princess Buhlebetive also gave a spectacular performance as they did their solo sessions. The acting indvuna was first to open the solo session.
She was followed by representatives from Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force, Royal Eswatini Police Service and His Majesty’s Correctional Services, who danced collectively.
The turnout during the ceremony was impressive as the stands and no man’s land were filled.
Masters of Ceremonies Elangeni Inkhosatana Lieutenant General Tsembeni Magongo and Shiselweni regional Commissioner Wendy Hleta both brought order to the Imbali as they went about in the arena. Emazinyane and Emakhosikati also appreciated the princess as they danced in the arena.
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