Africa-Press – Eswatini. His Majesty King Mswati III has hailed the successful completion of the 2025 Incwala Ceremony, marking 40 years of the Kingdom’s most sacred cultural tradition, as a profound symbol of divine blessings, peace and national unity.
Incwala has been continuously danced since 1986, when His Majesty King Mswati III ascended to the throne. The year 2025 marks the 40th year since Incwala was danced for the first time since the King was on the throne.
Speaking on Saturday, 24 January 2026 during Kucitfwa kweLibutfo (the Dispersal of Regiments) at Ngabezweni Royal Residence, His Majesty reflected on the spiritual journey of this year’s Incwala, from the Commission of Bemanti, Little Incwala, the cutting of the lusekwane shrub, Incwala Main Day, to the weeding of the Royal Fields. He praised the unwavering dedication, discipline and resilience displayed by Ingatja and the Emabutfo throughout the sacred rituals.
The King described the 2025 Incwala as particularly special, noting that the persistent heavy rains experienced throughout the ceremony were a blessing from Heaven. He said the rains accompanied the ritual from beginning to end, signifying divine favour upon the nation. His Majesty further commended Ingaja for returning with impressive quantities of lusekwane, describing the sight as extraordinary and deeply symbolic.
Highlighting the blessings associated with Incwala, His Majesty said they were evident in the positive developments the country continues to experience, including international goodwill, donations and the recent introduction of the long-acting PrEP injection. He encouraged emajaha to make use of the PrEP injection as an added preventive measure against HIV and AIDS, while stressing that it should complement responsible behaviour, discipline and self-respect.
The King expressed optimism that HIV and AIDS can be defeated, noting that the songs composed and sung during Incwala carry messages of hope and resilience. He added that the twice-yearly PrEP injection represents renewed protection and confidence for the nation’s youth.
His Majesty also praised the participation of people from outside Eswatini, describing their involvement as a blessing to the Kingdom. He explained that the sacred songs performed during Incwala are themselves blessings, which is why they may not be sung outside the ceremony. Regiments from abroad who participated and performed these songs, he said, carry Eswatini’s blessings back to their home countries, spreading peace and cultural goodwill.
In a historic development, members of His Majesty’s Correctional Services, commonly referred to as BoMalume, participated alongside Emabutfo for the first time. The King described this inclusion as another blessing and encouraged them to practise umgubho in preparation for future participation, while observing the rules governing sacred songs.
His Majesty expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the ceremony by bringing tetfulo, ensuring the smooth running of the event. He also acknowledged the need to expand the royal cattle byre, citing the large turnout of regiments from across the country and beyond.
Commending Emabutfo for completing the weeding of the Royal Fields despite challenging weather conditions, the King urged emajaha to take the spirit of diligence and farming back to their chiefdoms to strengthen national food security. He noted that the abundant rainfall promised a good harvest season.
In recognition of their service, His Majesty announced that Ingaja and Emabutfo were rewarded with 141 head of cattle, E45 million (timbasha), calendars, chicken portions and food supplies.
Marking the 40-year milestone of Incwala, His Majesty emphasised that the ceremony reflects peace, unity and the continuity of cultural blessings, which will continue to guide Eswatini’s growth, stability and socio-economic development.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
