Africa-Press – Eswatini. \The Incwala Ceremony has been described as highly blessed, marked by consistent rainfall from its opening days, a sign traditionally associated with prosperity, renewal and divine favour.
Speaking during an interview with this publication on Saturday January 3, 2025 Manzini Regional Administrator Chief Prince Gija said the ceremony has been spiritually uplifting, noting that rain has fallen almost every evening since Day One, including on the New Year’s Eve festive night.
“This year’s Incwala is blessed. From the first day, we have witnessed rain in the evenings, which is a positive sign for the nation,” said Chief Prince Gija.
His Majesty’s Headman Finyezi Mncina echoed the sentiments during an interview with Babukisi Foundation, stating that the presence of rain during Incwala is deeply rooted in history.
“It is good indeed. In the past, Incwala was always associated with rain. This is a sign of blessings and continuity of our traditions,” said Mncina.
The Incwala Ceremony officially began on December 20, 2025, drawing thousands of Emaswati to the Ludzidzini Royal Residence as the sacred national ritual unfolded. On Day Two, regiments actively participated in traditional dances, showcasing the richness of Swazi culture while reaffirming unity, heritage and national pride. The ceremonies were graced by His Majesty King Mswati III.
From Ludzidzini, the sacred proceedings moved to Ngabezweni Royal Residence, before proceeding to Mbangweni Royal Residence in Shiselweni and later to Buhleni Royal Residence in Hhohho, as part of the traditional royal itinerary.
As preparations intensified ahead of the cutting of the sacred Lusekwane shrub, Libutfo from Bulandzeni Royal Kraal departed from Etfuntini Royal Kraal, setting out in accordance with custom ahead of the royal commissioning.
Leading the Lamnyama contingent was Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, accompanied by the Minister of Education and Training Hon. Owen Nxumalo, Members of Parliament, and other traditional leaders. The delegation briefly halted at Magoga before proceeding to Bhalekane, their next stop on the journey.
Meanwhile, Ingaja came out in large numbers and high spirits, eagerly anticipating being commissioned to take part in the cutting of the sacred shrubs — a key cultural rite and an important step in the development and transition of the Swazi young man.
On Saturday, January 3, thousands of Ingaja and Libutfo poured out in song and motion, marching for kilometres to cut the sacred Lusekwane in one of the most powerful and emotional moments of the Incwala Ceremony. The march followed the official commissioning by His Majesty King Mswati III, who dispatched Ingaja in line with sacred custom. This marked Day 15, signalling that the ceremony had entered its final and most demanding stages.
On Sunday, January 4, 2026, Ingaja shone with determination and discipline as they delivered the sacred Lusekwane to Their Majesties at the Ludzidzini Cattle Byre. Travelling day and night, they embraced this proud rite of passage, demonstrating courage, endurance and unwavering commitment to Swazi culture and the journey into manhood.
The movement of Libutfo and Ingaja forms part of the deeply respected traditional processes leading to the royal rituals that define Incwala a cornerstone of Eswatini’s national cultural calendar.
The main day of the Incwala Ceremony is set for Tuesday, January 6, 2026, when the nation will once again gather to witness the climax of this sacred and historic celebration.
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