Photo series: Traditions of Swaziland

  1. Posted on Wednesday 27 October 2010 - 11:35
    alexmukuka
    Image of alexmukuka
    Text and pictures by Alex Mukuka/ Mount Pisgah Picture Agency
    Swaziland has been a monarchy since the Nguni people entered the territory, where they lived under the leadership of Dlamini I. The country and people of Swaziland derive their name from a later King, Mswati I, who reigned during the mid 19th century.
    King Mswati III of the Eswatini people of the Kingdom of Swaziland
    The dual Swazi monarchy is the only ruling one in Africa, although Lesotho and Morocco also have Kings. The Swazi King, Traditionally called (Ingwenyama) lion rules in conjunction with the Queen mother, Indlovukazi (the she-elephant).

    The present monarch, King Mswati III ascended the throne in 1986 at the age of 18, succeeding his father King Sobhuza II, a much respected and loved man who was also the world’s longest reigning monarch, ruling from 1921 until 1982.

    The Swazis are a proud but peaceful people with happy, easy-going and often humorous personalities.

    Swaziland is one country that is known for conserving its culture. Old Swazi traditions are carefully guarded and colorful ceremonies annually take place to mark some these occasions, which include
    Umhlanga (The reed dance ceremony)

    The ceremony allows the King to select a wife as the maidens line-up clad in traditional attires.

    Currently King Mswati III has 13 wives.

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