BY PHUMELELE MKHONTA
MBABANE- Excitement, wonder, appreciation!
The above words describe how the news of South African Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza attending the Incwala Ceremony were welcomed by some members of the public and the international media.
Mabuza landed in the country yesterday and joined His Majesty King Mswati III in dance at the Little Incwala at Buhleni Royal Residence.
The international media, including News24, MSN, Zalebs and many others wrote, about his private visit in the country.
Also, some locals took to their social media, applauding Mabuza for attending, saying that his surname was Swati meaning he was a liSwati as well. They also said this was proof that the Eswatini heritage was gaining popularity.
“It was eye-catching that he wore the proper gear and looked like he was in the zone. This is great,” said one social media user.
Another social media user said this was a humbling moment for Eswatini, saying it was such gestures that put the country on the map.
When sought for comment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sikhumbuzo Bhembe said it was great to notice that Mabuza’s visit had attracted positive attention.
“These are the things that put Eswatini on the map,” he said.
Yesterday, Government Spokesperson Alpheus Nxumalo sent out a statement stating that the Deputy President would also be paying homage to His Majesty King Mswati III.
“The Deputy President is not visiting in his capacity as a government official, but purely as a liSwati (son of the soil) here to participate in the on-going sacred Incwala ceremony and pay homage to His Majesty King Mswati III. He is accompanied by Chiefs and Princes based in the Mpumalanga Province in the Republic of South Africa and is currently at Buhleni Royal Residence,” detailed Nxumalo.
About SA Deputy President
David Dabede Mabuza was appointed as Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa on February 27, 2018. He was the Premier of Mpumalanga Provincial Government from May 6, 2009 until February 26, 2018. He has been a member of ANC National Executive Committee since 2007.
Mabuza holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of South Africa 1989 and he obtained a National Teacher’s Certificate from Mngwenya College of Education in 1985. He matriculated at Khumbula High School.
