BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE– Shiselweni you are Up!
His Majesty King Mswati III, through Sidzandzane se Makhosi Bongiwe Hlatshwako, has announced that the Shiselweni leg of the Umhlanga Reed Dance ceremony will take place on October 13-15, 2023.
In the Royal announcement yesterday, His Majesty King Mswati III summoned the Imbali Umhlanga ceremony.
Umhlanga main ceremony
The Umhlanga ceremony, a cultural tradition of Eswatini, celebrates the importance of young women in society.
Speaking on behalf of the King, Hlatshwako revealed that Imbali is expected to arrive and register at Mbangweni Royal Residence on October 13 , 2023.
The ceremony will officially commence on the next day when Imbali departs from Ludzidzini to cut reeds in various locations as directed by the King.
“On October 14 2023, the cutting of the reeds will take place as the maidens will bring their own reed , marking a significant aspect of the Umhlanga ceremony. On October 15, 2023, Imbali whill join his Majesty King Mswati III in dance,” said Hlatshwako
Worth mentioning is that the peak of the ceremony will take place on the last day, when Imbali delivers the reeds to the Ludzidzini Royal Residence.
Thereafter proceed to the arena day for the song and dance. As the ceremony reaches its climax, anticipation is building for the main day of celebration.
Imbali will showcase their singing and dancing talents before their Majesties, King Mswati III, Her Majesty the Indlovukazi and other dignitaries.
Meanwhile shortly after the announcement a number of social media users shared their excitement on various platforms indicating that they were looking forward to the day.
“Bayethe wena Wa Phakathi. We are ready, your Majesty, for this day we are ready,” said one Slindo Dlamini.
While another one said “ This is the one announcement we were looking forward to. We are ready Your Majesty,”
These were some of the many positive comments shared by people, especially Imbali.
