Africa-Press – Eswatini. With the Little Incwala now under way, excitement is building across the country as Emaswati prepare to participate in this year’s Incwala Ceremony, one of Eswatini’s most revered traditional events.
The centuries-old ceremony, which takes place towards the end of each year and continues into the beginning of the next, officially commenced on Saturday, December 20, 2025, with the arrival of regiments at Ludzidzini Royal Residence. Marching with energy and pride from Ngabezweni Royal Residence, the regiments took a brief rest at Lozitha before proceeding to Ludzidzini, marking the start of the Little Incwala.
The regiments arrived in the late afternoon, at around 6pm, but the atmosphere of celebration had already begun much earlier. Before entering the Royal Residence, the regiments danced enthusiastically to a variety of traditional songs just outside Ludzidzini for nearly an hour. Their spirited performances reflected both excitement and pride at being part of a ceremony deeply rooted in Eswatini’s identity and history.
Among the regiments were people from all walks of life, including government officials, ministers, principal secretaries, corporate leaders such as chief executive officers, and ordinary citizens. Young people, including school-going youth, also formed part of the regiments, demonstrating the continued relevance of Incwala across generations.
The Little Incwala is expected to be observed at various royal residences across the country in the days leading up to the Main Incwala. Further details and announcements related to the ceremony will be communicated to the nation as the traditional programme unfolds.
Even before the arrival of the regiments, members of the public had begun gathering near Ludzidzini Royal Residence as early as 2pm. Many women were already present, eagerly anticipating the procession from Ngabezweni and creating a lively atmosphere filled with song, conversation and anticipation.
Speaking to Eswatini Positive News, members of the Emabutfo and Lutsango expressed joy and pride at participating in Incwala. Members of the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) also arrived at Ludzidzini at around 3pm, visibly excited to take part in the annual ceremony, which is held only once a year.
Members of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF), including Kayise Dlamini, Sicholo Dlamini, Tholiwe Motsa, Lomvelo Dlamini and Gcamile Simelane, echoed similar sentiments. They emphasised the importance of preserving Eswatini law and custom, noting that these traditions play a vital role in uniting the nation and ensuring harmonious national development.
Bhekumbutfo Shongwe and Shiyemantungwa Shabangu also highlighted the unifying nature of Incwala, saying the ceremony brings Emaswati together in unity with Their Majesties. Regiments from Buhleni described participation in Incwala as a privilege, noting that few nations enjoy the opportunity to sing and dance alongside their leaders.
Nyakanyaka Ndaba, Umbutfo from Ngabezweni, together with Tfulumhlaba from Shiselweni, described Incwala as a national prayer that welcomes everyone, regardless of personal circumstances or views. Teenage regiment Sidvwashilesimanti Mkhatshwa from Lwandle encouraged Emaswati, particularly those who may not have participated at chiefdom level, to seize the opportunity to be part of Incwala and experience the beauty of unity with their leaders.
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