MISS PIGG’S PEAK CROWNED MISS CULTURAL HERITAGE 2024

MLAWULA – Gcinizwi Tsikati emerged as the new Miss Cultural Heritage 2024, out of the 21 beauties who participated in the pageant.

The crowning was held at the Mlawula Nature Reserve during the annual campfire festival, where Tsikati was crowned the queen alongside her regional queens. The contestants who won the regional titles are Manzini’s Nonkazimulo Bennett, Shiselweni’s Mbali Mashiloane, Hhohho’s Mwali Senanile and Lubombo’s Precious Dlamini. The pageant finale was attended by the Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth  Affairs, Bongani Nzima, Lubombo Regional Women Member of Parliament Futhi Ngcamphalala among other dignitaries. In his speech, the minister emphasised the importance of crowning someone who embodies the values, traditions and aspirations of the nation.

“We recognise that the new queen carries a responsibility beyond the title. She will serve as an ambassador of our rich cultural heritage and an inspiring example for our youth. The queen’s role in preserving and promoting heritage is essential,” he said. Nzima also added that she will also be a guiding light, showing young people the strength and pride in being rooted in their heritage.

During the question and answer session, the contestants were asked what difference or changes they would make if they were to be crowned the next Miss Cultural Heritage. Tsikati advocated for women and young girls to work together especially on crafts. “I would ensure that women (Lutsango) work together closely with young girls (Imbali) and they teach them handicraft, more especially making young girls traditional attire. I would also get sponsors to build a national art centre for the youth, where we would showcase our amazing work which in turn would boost the country’s economy,” she said. Tsikati also added that the work in the art centre would attract tourists and some of the work may be showcased outside of the country and that will also strengthen the country’s relations with other states.

Eswatini National Arts and Culture (ENCAC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Stanley Dlamini, revealed some of the big plans that the council has for the future. “We are delighted to have partnered with these amazing people, I believe that this is the beginning of great things. This would not have been possible without our sponsors, who continue supporting us without fail. As a council, we believe that in the near future, we will also host Miss Cultural Heritage Global in the country if we continue working hard with our dedicated staff,” he said.

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