BUHLENI – A breathtaking sea of red flooded the royal grounds, as thousands gathered for the first leg of the annual Buganu Ceremony at the Buhleni Royal Residence.
The arena transformed into a vibrant tapestry of culture, song and movement as Lutsango regiments from across the country assembled in remarkable numbers, creating one of the most visually striking openings in recent years. From early afternoon, groups began streaming into Buhleni, their coordinated chants announcing their arrival long before they entered the main arena. Dressed in radiant red with white lihiya and complemented by black pleated traditional skirts (sidvwaba), the women carried themselves with poise and pride. The regalia, entirely handmade by the very women who adorned it, reflected not only craftsmanship, but also devotion to tradition. Around their necks shimmered colourful traditional beadwork known as ligcebesha. The beads ranged from glittering green and bold red to soft light blue, while some incorporated the national colours of the Eswatini flag. Each colour symbolised the organisation, department, chiefdom or corporate body the regiment represented. As they moved in unison, the beads caught the fading sunlight, turning the arena into a living mosaic of colour.
Excitement reached its peak shortly before 6pm, when Indlovukazi and Ingwenyama arrived. The atmosphere instantly shifted. Ululations pierced the air, whistles echoed across the grounds, and thousands rose to their feet in respect and celebration. The arena, already alive with anticipation, erupted into a powerful chorus that welcomed Their Majesties. Moments after the royal arrival, the Lutsango regiments began dancing, energising the arena before the grand formal proceedings. Each group sang its own composition, yet the harmonies blended seamlessly, preserving the rhythm and beauty of the ceremony. The Lutsango from the health sector proudly sang: ‘Sivikela Ngemjovo Lonyaka’, loosely translated to mean we protect through vaccination this year. This highlights their public health mission. The Tinkhundla Lutsango declared: ‘Sitosuka sitsi Nkwe oKandaba Siletse Intfutfuko’ , meaning that they will rise with haste and facilitate development, reinforcing the message of national growth. From Montigny, a regiment carried a wooden shield engraved with the image of a wattle tree plant. Their song: ‘Sihalalilesela Emadvodza KaNgwane,’ also translates to mean we celebrate the men of the nation, drawing cheers from spectators who appreciated the tribute to heritage and strength. Many more songs with national themes followed.
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