LUDZIDZINI – His Majesty King Mswati III has once again summoned Imbali for the final segment of this year’s annual Umhlanga Ceremony.
This follows the completion of the first leg of the event, which was held at Ludzidzini Royal Residence.
The annual Umhlanga Ceremony is a significant event, through which the country encourages and celebrates the girl child for preserving her virginity while focusing on her studies until she reaches the age of personal choice.
The ceremony also promotes abstinence among young girls as a means of protecting them against sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
During the event, the young girls are provided with life skills lessons to help them avoid older men who may attempt to sexually exploit them.
Through Imbali Indvuna Bongiwe ‘Vivane’ Hlatjwako, the King ordered the maidens to assemble at Mbangweni Royal Residence with reeds for registration on September 11. On September 12, the young girls are scheduled to deliver their reeds before Their Majesties and then proceed to the cultural stadium to showcase their pride in front of the monarchs and the entire world.
On September 13, the maidens will display their chastity, while dressed in full traditional attire before Their Majesties. Their return date will be communicated later; however, it is customary for them to return home on the Monday following the event, as the King is against them travelling at night.
The annual ceremony has attracted international attention due to its uniqueness and its positive impact on the tourism sector. During recent celebrations, many nations admired emaSwati for their unity in celebrating the girl child alongside Their Majesties in a single venue.
The event also affords emaSwati the opportunity to sell food, traditional attire and clothes, among other items, for the betterment of their families.
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