Africa-Press – Eswatini. A talented delegation of five students and two teachers from Eswatini has embarked on an exciting journey to represent the kingdom at the prestigious Robben Island Schools Festival in South Africa.
The festival, which runs from October 3 to October 11, 2025, is themed “Nurturing Future Leaders Through Memory and Meaning,” reflecting its commitment to fostering leadership through cultural expression and serving as a platform for cultural exchange.
According to Ronnie Gamedze, President of the Eswatini Art and Culture Association (ESACA), the selected students represent various art forms offered by schools, emphasizing the rich cultural heritage of Eswatini. The students representing Eswatini are:
Bayanda Thwala – Sibhaca (Timphisini High School)
Melokuhle Zitha – Ummiso (Lobamba National High School)
Musawenkhosi Mbatha – Drama (Vulamasango High School)
Thandolwethu Dlamini – Music (Vulamasango High School)
Khulekani Magongo – Drum Majorettes (Ekukhanyeni High School)
Accompanying these talented students are their dedicated leaders:
– Ronnie Gamedze – President of ESACA (Lucaceni High School)
– Thembie Makhubu – Treasurer of ESACA (Lozitha High School)
These students performed exceptionally well during the Inyatsi Schools Art and Culture Competitions 2025, showcasing their dedication and talent in their respective art forms. Gamedze expressed his pride in their achievements, stating, “Our students have shown immense talent and dedication, and their success at the Inyatsi competitions truly reflects the rich cultural heritage of Eswatini.”
Eswatini has a long-standing tradition of participating in the Robben Island Schools Festival, attending for over seven years and sending different students each time to represent the country. In last year’s 2024 festival, Eswatini secured an impressive fourth position out of nine schools competing at Robben Island, showcasing the talent and hard work of its students. Gamedze noted, “This is not just a competition; it’s an opportunity for our students to connect with their cultural roots and gain inspiration from the historic island.”
The festival provides a platform for young artists to shine and serves as a vital cultural exchange, allowing students from different backgrounds to interact and learn from one another. This exposure is invaluable, fostering mutual respect and understanding among young artists, while encouraging them to develop their skills in various artistic disciplines.
The Inyatsi Foundation has generously contributed E30 000 to support the Eswatini delegation’s trip, covering allowances, toiletries, tracksuits, and T-shirts. This continued support highlights the foundation’s commitment to promoting arts and culture in the kingdom. Last year, they contributed over E20 000 for the same initiative, demonstrating a strong investment in the future of Eswatini’s youth. The financial backing from the Inyatsi Foundation and the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture ensures that students are well-prepared for this significant event.
As the students prepare for this enriching experience, the anticipation is palpable among their peers and the community. Friends, family, and educators are all excited to see how the students will represent Eswatini on such a prominent platform. The journey to Robben Island is not just about competition; it is also about learning, growth, and building connections with other young artists from across the region.
The festival serves as a reminder of the power of the arts in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among youth. By participating in events like the Robben Island Schools Festival, Eswatini is investing in its future leaders, encouraging them to embrace their cultural identity while honing their skills in various artistic disciplines.
The Eswatini delegation’s journey to Robben Island is a significant milestone for the students and the nation as a whole. With the support of organizations like the Inyatsi Foundation and the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture, these young artists are poised to make a lasting impact, both in their personal development and in the broader context of Eswatini’s cultural landscape. As they embark on this adventure, they carry with them not only their talents but also the hopes and dreams of their communities, eager to shine on the international stage.
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