Join hands, protect King – Phakel’umthakathi urges Swati men

LUDZIDZINI – Nkosikhona Ndabandaba, widely known as Phakel’umthakathi, has called upon men in Eswatini to join hands in protecting the King and the institution of the Monarchy.

The South African activist, cultural practitioner, traditional leader and actor, who is well known for leading high-profile campaigns and marches against illegal immigration in South Africa, made this appeal at Ludzidzini Royal Residence during the main day of the annual Umhlanga Ceremony.

He emphasised that every man should recognise and understand the importance of the King and the institution of the Monarchy in the country.

“Men should join hands and support the King and the Monarchy, which is the custodian of culture. As the custodian of culture, the King uses the annual Umhlanga Ceremony to protect the girl child against gender-based violence (GBV).

“It is, therefore, essential for every man to support the King’s initiative, as no one wants their child to fall victim to GBV,” he stated briefly.

Ndabandaba, who hails from Nongoma, Hlalankosi in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, said he was in Eswatini to support His Majesty King Mswati III during the significant event, which aims to promote the development of the girl child.

It is worth noting that, as Ndabandaba pointed out, the annual Umhlanga Ceremony is one of the most important events dedicated to appreciating the girl child. The ceremony encourages young girls to preserve their virginity and focus on their studies until they reach their personal choices. Additionally, the event promotes abstinence among young girls as a measure of preventing HIV/AIDS.

Ndabandaba is among several African leaders who strongly believe in culture as a way of life for the African people. He is also recognised for his activism against illegal immigration, leading campaigns that demand undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa. He frequently organises large public demonstrations and heads the Insizwa Ngobunsizwa Development Foundation.

Furthermore, he is a prominent figure in Zulu cultural leadership. As a respected cultural leader from Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, Ndabandaba is known for mobilising and leading traditional Zulu regiments (amabutho) and advocating for traditional values and manhood.

Ndabandaba was warmly received by Army Commander General Mashikilisane Fakudze, who then introduced him to the National Commissioner of Police, Vusi Manoma Masango and Chief Fire Officer Luke Lushaba. Fakudze, who appeared visibly pleased upon seeing Ndabandaba, requested that he be given space for a photo shoot before Ndabandaba joined the warriors accompanying the King during the appreciation of Imbali dances at the arena.