Local personalities celebrate culture at Hlane

MBABANE – A vibrant contingent of local personalities recently joined the nation at Hlane Royal Residence for the annual Buganu Ceremony.

The presence of high-profile media figures at such traditional gatherings underscores a vital message, the importance of every liSwati remaining rooted in their heritage. For many, the event was a powerful reminder that cultural participation is not just about tradition, but about identity and national pride.

Sbu De Drum DJ, a prominent figure in the local music scene, noted that attending such events is about more than just brand visibility.

He emphasised that it is essential for individuals to understand and actively participate in their own traditions.

“It is my first time attending the Buganu Ceremony and I must say, I am sad that I have been missing out all these years, indeed our culture is very unique and beautiful,” he said.

Echoing these sentiments, local MC Bayanda Ngcamphalala stated that attending cultural festivities has become part of his DNA. He described these events as the backbone of the Swati people.

Ngcamphalala argued that for Eswatini’s culture to be respected globally, it must first be championed by those at home. “Before other international celebrities even experience the beauty of our culture, we must also embrace it so that when we travel, we get to tell them how amazing an experience it is. These events are also significant because of the lessons that one gets from here,” he said.

The ceremony at Hlane serves as a reminder that as Eswatini modernises, the connection to traditional roots remains a priority for the youth and public figures alike. By swapping the stage for the traditional arena, these personalities are helping to ensure that the kingdom’s unique customs remain relevant for future generations.

Beyond the celebration, the gathering provided an opportunity for networking and community building. The integration of modern influencers into these age-old rites suggests a healthy future for the nation’s heritage, blending the contemporary with the classic in a way that resonates across all age groups.