Africa-Press – Eswatini. At a high-profile ceremony held in Harare, Zimbabwe, on 13 February 2026, the Babukisi Foundation was officially honoured at the prestigious Iconic Africa Summit & Honors.
The award recognizes the foundation’s outstanding contribution to preserving Siswati culture and strengthening the social fabric of the Kingdom of Eswatini through innovative education and global digital outreach.
The Foundation’s Founder and Executive Director, Thobejane Magagula, received the award on behalf of the organisation during the event, which was attended by African traditional leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and global influencers. The Summit, convened under the theme “The Africa We Want: Sustainable Development, Everyone’s Responsibility,” celebrates African excellence and advances African-led transformation.
“We are honored to represent Emaswati here, educating and inspiring other Africans to move towards first world status with their culture and traditions,” Magagula stated. He emphasized that the foundation’s mission is rooted in the belief that modern progress should never come at the expense of one’s traditional identity and heritage.
The Babukisi Foundation was specifically lauded for its work in promoting and educating Emaswati and the world about Siswati traditions. Since 2012, the organisation has implemented cultural education programmes in over 450 schools across the Kingdom. This initiative has empowered thousands of young people with a deep knowledge of their heritage, identity, and social values.
In the digital space, the foundation has become a leading voice in African cultural storytelling. In the past 12 months alone, Babukisi’s cultural content has reached over 23 million views. With audiences spanning more than 45 countries, the foundation is successfully positioning Siswati traditions on a global stage, making culture accessible to a digital-first generation.
During the ceremony, Magagula praised His Majesty King Mswati III for championing culture as a pillar of national development, drawing significant applause from the international delegation. “We are grateful to Their Majesties for leading the nation by example when it comes to developing while remaining true to our identity as Emaswati,” Magagula added.
The Kingdom was well-represented by a delegation of prominent business and civic leaders, including Muzi-Wandile Hlatshwayo, Duncan Dlamini, and Malibongwe Xaba. Prince Lindani also delivered remarks during the event and was formally welcomed by the Vice-President of Zimbabwe, further underscoring the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations.
The nomination was facilitated by the Small Enterprises Development Company (SEDCO), which identified impactful leaders to represent Eswatini. This recognition provides Babukisi with access to a powerful continental network, opening doors for further integration of cultural heritage within modern economic frameworks and international trade.
This honour marks a milestone for Eswatini’s cultural diplomacy. “This recognition strengthens our visibility and advances the vision of Eswatini as a beacon of culture and development,” Magagula noted. By bridging ancient heritage with modern innovation, the Foundation is ensuring the Kingdom’s identity remains a leading force in Africa’s collective progress.
The Babukisi Foundation is a cultural organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting Siswati traditions through school outreach, digital storytelling, and creative productions.
