Africa-Press – Eswatini. Senators have applauded the Ministry of Home Affairs for its outstanding performance in managing national cultural events, citing increasing attendance and growing international recognition.
The sentiments were raised during the Senate Portfolio Committee budget debate for the Ministry of Home Affairs on March 26, 2027.
Senator Sicelo Dlamini delivered strong praise for the ministry’s role in successfully managing key national ceremonies such as Incwala, Reed Dance (Umhlanga) and the Buganu Festival.
He noted that despite criticism from some emerging online publications, public confidence in these events remained high, as reflected by increasing attendance figures.
The Senator cited the recent Buganu Ceremony held at Hlane, where high volumes of attendees resulted in traffic congestion, with some participants taking up to two hours to gain entry an indication of growing interest and participation.
The senator also conveyed appreciation from Their Majesties for gifting Lutsango regiments with umihelwane, which has enhanced uniformity and cultural presentation. He added that Eswatini’s cultural heritage continues to attract admiration internationally.
Senator Isaac Magagula echoed similar sentiments, commending the ministry for its consistency in delivering well-coordinated cultural events that continue to draw large crowds year after year.
Responding on behalf of the Minister of Home Affairs, Princess Lindiwe, Minister of Public Service Mabulala Maseko expressed gratitude to the senators for recognising the ministry’s efforts. He said the ministry remained committed to strengthening the management of cultural events, which continue to see growing participation from both local and international visitors.
He also acknowledged the importance of preserving cultural identity through initiatives such as the provision of lihiya to Lutsango, which contributes to a unified and dignified cultural display.
Recent statistics further underscore the growing success of Eswatini’s cultural calendar. The 2025 Umhlanga Reed Dance recorded 34 599 visitor arrivals, marking a 5.8 per cent increase from the previous year.
The event also saw participation from over 2 500 maidens from South Africa, while accommodation facilities reached an average occupancy rate of 84.9 per cent, with Ezulwini peaking at 94.9 per cent.
The 2026 Buganu Ceremony also recorded significant milestones, including the participation of more than 150 persons with disabilities in the Lutsango regiment for the first time, alongside thousands of attendees.
Meanwhile, Incwala Ceremony attracted over 80 000 participants, reaffirming its status as one of the country’s most significant cultural events.
