Africa-Press – Eswatini. Incwala Main Day continues to affirm its status as Eswatini’s most powerful cultural magnet, drawing thousands of people from across the country and beyond its borders to the Ludzidzini Royal Residence.
Visitors from Africa and Europe joined locals in large numbers to witness the Kingdom’s most sacred cultural ceremony, led by His Majesty King Mswati III alongside Libutfo, Lutsango, Imbali, Ingaja, Bokhololo, and dignitaries dancing during the Incwala main day on Tuesday January 6,2026
Among first-time attendees was Mzimkhulu Xingwayo from the Eastern Cape, South Africa, who described Incwala as one of the most exciting cultural experiences he has ever encountered. Although he has attended other cultural events such as Buganu, he said Incwala stands out for its deep symbolism, unity, and powerful display of tradition.
International visitors also made their way to Eswatini for the ceremony. Erick Mang’era, a senior economist from Tanzania’s Ministry of Finance, attended Incwala Main Day alongside his colleagues Mary Mihigo and Manase Micah. The trio, who were in the country on holiday, said they were impressed by the richness of Eswatini’s culture and the striking traditional regalia on display.
From Europe, Cecilie Nymann and Nicolai Kofod travelled from Denmark after learning about Incwala online. They said witnessing the ceremony firsthand at Ludzidzini gave them a deeper appreciation of Eswatini’s cultural pride, traditions, and long-preserved customs.
Italian national Davide Cristaldi, who works in Mozambique, entered Eswatini through the Lomahasha border post specifically to attend Incwala Main Day. Attending for the first time, he said the experience inspired him to return next year dressed in full traditional attire. Fellow Italian visitor Lulia Pavel also described Incwala Main Day as an unforgettable experience that gave her a first-hand appreciation of Eswatini’s rich culture.
Local voices echoed the importance of the ceremony. Sukangihlale Dlamini from Lwembesane, Hhohho, said Incwala is a time of prayer for the Emaswati, while Muvakwesigameko Mamba from Inyatsini yaMswati, Ngabezweni, expressed joy at seeing attendance grow every year.
Young Emaswati also encouraged participation. Bongiswa Dlamini from Lobamba urged her peers to be part of Incwala to better understand their culture and traditions. Umbutfo Khotsumlomo Shongwe from Emagumedzeni, initiated through Kubutseka in 2023, said being part of Incwala strengthened his sense of identity and unity.
First-time participant Mazwi Maseko, Umbutfo Maphuma eDzakeni Umgadlela Ngabezweni, attended the ceremony after completing Kubutseka on December 24, 2025, describing the experience as a significant cultural milestone.
Entertainment and hospitality stakeholders have also noted the ceremony’s wider impact. Thulani Ntshangase, Director of If’s Lounge, said Incwala continues to attract both international tourists and local people, boosting leisure destinations and supporting the hospitality and entertainment industries.
Local artist Sancheziey (Mkhuleko Mangwe), known for the song Siyabonga Gogo, emphasised that attending Incwala is a powerful way to honour culture, unity, and national values.
As thousands gathered at Ludzidzini, Incwala Main Day once again proved that Eswatini’s culture not only unites the nation but continues to attract the world.
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