Africa-Press – Eswatini. Her Majesty Indlovukazi has issued a clarion call to all pastors and church leaders in Eswatini, urging them to preach the true Gospel and guide their congregations in faith and unity.
Speaking at the 2026 Year Opening National Prayer for God’s Guidance held at Mandvulo Hall on February 14, 2026, Her Majesty emphasized the spiritual responsibility of pastors to “fish men into the truth.”
Her Majesty Indlovukazi said pastors must preach the true Gospel of truth. They are called to guide people toward God and away from division and conflict,” the congregation was told. Her Majesty expressed her disappointment after seeing disputes among congregants unfold on television, describing it as a sign that spiritual guidance must return to its intended purpose.
She reinforced the importance of wisdom and discernment with Proverbs 23:23, which says: “Buy the truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding.” “Pastors must hold firmly to truth and guide their people wisely,” she said.
Drawing from Genesis 37, the story of Joseph, Her Majesty reminded pastors of their divine calling to guide, correct, and restore believers in love.
Her Majesty also warned that some churches may have become like “marketplaces,” where the truth of the Gospel is being sold for gain rather than preached faithfully. She called on pastors and the nation to engage in self-introspection: “Are you walking in the ways of truth, or are you selling it? Our nation must be true worshippers, serving God for devotion and not for money. I appeal to the church and the nation: the truth must not be allowed to perish among us.”
Her Majesty Indlovukazi arrived at Mandvulo Hall at around midday and was warmly welcomed with a soulful rendition of “Emphini Zizothini” by award-winning gospel artist Nothando Hlomphe.
The arrival of His Majesty King Mswati III at 1:00 pm was marked by the singing of the National Anthem, followed by a gospel performance by the Mandvulo Choir, led by Nothando Dlamini.
The programme was directed by Rev Madudu Mabuza from Mafutseni, who acknowledged the significance of the event coinciding with Valentine’s Day. He described the occasion as a symbol of love and sacrifice, noting that both Their Majesties were seated in red chairs, reflecting the spirit of the day.
He further highlighted the biblical meaning of 40 years as a season of new beginnings, describing Eswatini as the “pulpit of Africa,” evidenced by the presence of international clergy, including Bishop George Jokwe from Zimbabwe.
Rev S. Mhlanga preached from Luke 5:4, stressing that the call to “launch out into the deep” was not only for the day but for the entire year. He urged believers to live lives that draw others closer to God, reminding the congregation that faith is not personal but communal. He emphasized that Eswatini continues to be sustained by prayer.
Rev Gloria L. Maseko from the Lubombo Region urged support for youth against bad influences. She also challenged the church to wake up from spiritual slumber, citing Isaiah 56:10. She warned that drug abuse, gangsterism, rising crime, and economic hardships were signs of watchmen sleeping on duty. She urged the church to take responsibility in restoring society, particularly by supporting the youth against harmful influences.
Rev Thulani Dlamini described 2026 as a year of rebound, encouraging the nation not to “wash their nets too soon,” a sign of defeat. He reminded the congregation that the same God who worked before is still able to do it again, calling on the nation to give the year their best effort and finish strong.
Praise and worship were led by the local team, alongside South African gospel sensation Xolly Mncwango, who ministered through “Liyabasebezela.” Mncwango is renowned for her award-winning debut album Jesus Is Enough (2020) and hit songs including “Umuhle Baba” and “Healing Power.”
Rev Nhlanhla Hlatswayo delivered a powerful message titled “God Is Still God – Champion of Champions,” drawing from John 11 and Luke 5:6. He reminded believers that even when God’s intervention seems delayed, His power remains unmatched. He posed a stirring question to the congregation: “Where has your situation placed you—where have you laid your Lazarus?”
Acting Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, while introducing Her Majesty Indlovukazi, emphasized the power of prayer and noted the divine significance of holding the national prayer on Valentine’s Day, describing Their Majesties as symbols of love and sacrifice for the nation.
