Cultural practices, customs and tradition form the strongest foundations for personal, societal and national development. This assertion was made by second year International Baccalaureate (IB) student Ncusalenkhosi Myeni as Waterford students celebrated Eswatini Day this week. According to Myeni “rather than viewing culture as something that limits progress, it should be recognized as a powerful source of guidance, resilience and innovation.”
This was the fifth edition of the event that was first held in July 2022, whose theme was “Asilibuyiseni emasisweni: Growth rooted in Culture”
In a programme packed with cultural activities, the Lutsango (women’s regiment) from Waterford Kamhlaba were the first to give a performance with their rendition of the Kutsamba dance, setting off an enthusiastic applause from the audience. This was followed by a scintillating and spiritual performance on the Makhoyane instrument by Thobile Magagula.
Speaking during the celebrations, the Principal at the college, Jackie Otula explained that the theme of the event “Asilibuyiseni emasisweni: Growth rooted in Culture” spoke to her personally and also the United World College on diversity, honoring and appreciating each other in terms of their roots and culture.
As a Kenyan National Otula made a valiant attempt at addressing the students and invited guests in SiSwati. She highlighted that they had gathered to celebrate Eswatini Day to honor their customs. “We stand at the intersection of memory and meaning where heritage is not merely remembered but lived. Our culture is not an artifact of the past It is a living inheritance carried in our languages, expressed in our customs and reflected in the dignity of who we are.”
In the true spirit of academia, part of the programme included a quiz in which the students asked each other questions relating to Eswatini’s heritage such as the age at which His Majesty King Mswati III was inaugurated. A skit was also performed by some of the young male students in which they emulated how the “Butseka” ritual is carried out.
Through song and dance, the Waterford Kamhlaba imbali (young maidens) acknowledged the Ingwenyama’s role in the development of the country. As expected, their performance was spirited, reflecting their youthfulness. They also danced to the song “wasi biza sa sabela okandaba, phela ngithi boma bizasebele”
Their song “Lonyaka kuzo phela bantu” was greatly appreciated by the audience and it set up the young male (emajaha) students Sibhaca Dance team. The acrobatic Sibhaca dancers lifted the whole occasion to a crescendo.
The keynote speaker at the occasion was Thobejane Magagula from the Babukisi Foundation who intimated that his one wish would be that it is Eswatini Day every day. His delivery was spiced with SiSwati songs and anecdotes that enriched the occasion and gave depth to the nature of the occasion. He gave explanations as to the significance of the different age and gender groupings in society such as the Imbali (maidens), Lutsango (Women) and emajaha (boys).
Magagula’s presentation had a strong emphasis on the scourge of Gender Based Violence and the fight against it. This was particularly directed towards the Imbali and the Lutsango. With slogans such as “Siyini, siyi mbali yeMaswati sichakazile, sitawuku ncoba kuhlukubeteka” and “Phez komkhono” being loudly acclaimed.
He made a note of the song sung by the Lutsango whose message was that in their spousal relationships they choose not to return any violent act that they may receive in the same way but rather choose to address it in song. Magagula explained that this is a typical SiSwati way of conflict resolution that prefers peace as opposed to violent aggression.
Magagula’s assertion is that identity is an anchor for growth and growth that is not anchored in identity is unstable. Understanding who you are, your language, values and heritage gives direction to your ambitions. When you know your roots, you make decisions with clarity and conviction.
“In a global world, authenticity stands out. Our traditions, stories and ways of thinking are not limitations, they are assets. Whether in business art or leadership, those who integrate culture into what they do create something unique. Returning to our roots does not mean rejecting progress, it means building forward with intention, using modern tools while preserving core values. True growth happens when innovation respects tradition” noted Magagula.
Language is a tool of empowerment, for instance when switching between English and SiSwati is not just about communication, its about inclusion and pride. Language carries worldview. “When we speak our native language, we preserve wisdom and ensure that no one is left behind in the conversation of growth” he said.
Young people have a responsibility as a custodian of culture. It is their responsibility to live it and to pass it on. Growth rooted in culture ensues that you rise, you uplift your community and preserve its legacy.
