MANZINI – The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) yesterday honoured emaSwati who served and sacrificed their lives during the Second World War (1939–1945), during the annual Umsizi Day commemoration held at the army’s headquarters in Nokwane.
The solemn commemoration brought together members of the country’s security forces, senior government officials, former security chiefs and other dignitaries to pay tribute to the fallen servicemen whose contribution remains part of Eswatini’s military history.
His Majesty King Mswati III was represented by Liqoqo Chairman Paul Dlamini, while Deputy Prime Minister Senator Thulisile Dladla represented Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini at the event.
Other security institutions that joined the UEDF included the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) and His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS), demonstrating a collective commitment by the country’s security establishments to remember those who served before them.
The ceremony also attracted former commanders and former heads of security institutions, whose presence added to the significance of the occasion as the country reflected on the sacrifices made by earlier generations.
The fallen heroes were remembered through a gun salute and the laying of wreaths, which formed part of the solemn proceedings. The gestures symbolised the country’s respect and gratitude towards those who answered the call to serve during the Second World War, many of whom never returned home.
Umsizi Day is an important occasion on the national calendar, commemorating Swazi men who participated in the Second World War under British command, with many recruited into the African Auxiliary Pioneer Corps.
Their responsibilities included transport, construction, engineering and logistical support to Allied military operations in North Africa and Europe.
Historical accounts indicate that thousands of Swazi men participated in the war, with historian Hamilton Simelane estimating that close to 4 000 were recruited for the war effort.
The commemoration also recognises the sacrifices made by the families of the servicemen, who endured years of uncertainty while their loved ones served in foreign territories.
The significance of Umsizi Day has grown over the years as the number of surviving veterans has dwindled. In November 2023, Moses Mhhushile Khumalo, aged 100, was identified as the country’s last surviving World War II veteran. He reportedly died in 2024, leaving the country without a surviving veteran from that generation.
Yesterday’s commemoration therefore served as a reminder of the importance of preserving the history of the servicemen and ensuring that younger generations appreciate the contribution made by their forefathers.
Through the gun salute, wreath-laying ceremony and participation of current and former security leaders, the country once again paid tribute to those whose sacrifices helped shape its history.
