More cultural practices can fuel economic growth – Siswati educator
Let us leverage on our rich culture and utilize it to propel economic growth.”
Those were the sentiments of Mkhuzweni High School Siswati Language educator, Ngcebo Hlophe.
The Manzini school hosted a vibrant and elegant cultural day.
Hlophe expressed the pivotal role of cultural practices in stimulating economic growth and emphasized the profound impact of cultural preservation on the nation’s economic prosperity.
The Mkhuzweni High School cultural day was a platform for empowering learners to embrace their Siswati language and the rich traditions of emaSwati. Hundreds of students adorned in traditional regalia gathered to partake in the festivities, which included educational sessions, cultural performances, and engaging activities.
Siswati Language Senior Inspector, Celiwe Mohammed, delivered enlightening remarks, emphasizing the importance of preserving the Siswati language and culture among the youth. Mohammed asserted that Siswati heritage holds immense significance for emaSwati and emphasized the necessity of instilling cultural pride in young learners from an early age to prevent cultural erosion.
Principal Raymond Ndlovu echoed these sentiments, highlighting the culture day’s educational significance.
He emphasized that the event was not merely a celebration but a valuable opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of Siswati culture and traditions.
The cultural day featured a plethora of traditional practices by Mkhuzweni learners, including Umtsimba, Ummiso, Sibhaca, and Kubutseka, showcasing the richness and diversity of emaSwati heritage.
Festivities
Imisebe Publishers added an exciting dimension to the festivities with a cultural competition, offering learners the chance to test their knowledge of the Siswati language and win prizes. Ngcebo Hlophe, speaking to the Eswatini Financial Times on the sidelines of the cultural day, advocated for the integration of more cultural initiatives to drive economic growth in Eswatini. He emphasized that Eswatini’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture present untapped potential for economic development. Hlophe urged the nation to leverage its cultural assets and explore innovative ways to harness them for economic prosperity.
“The Kingdom of Eswatini, a nation brimming with rich cultural heritage, possesses a potent tool for economic prosperity,” Hlophe stated. “Our own cultural practices have the potential to stimulate economic growth. By embracing and promoting these practices, the country can tap and unlock a wave of economic benefits.”
Eswatini’s vibrant culture, from traditional ceremonies like the Umhlanga, and Buganu to the intricate handicrafts, can be a magnet for tourists. Cultural tourism brings in foreign currency, creates jobs in the hospitality and travel sectors, and promotes a sense of national pride. Tourists drawn to the authenticity of Eswatini’s culture can put themselves as patrons of local businesses selling traditional crafts, apparel, and artwork. This initiative can spur entrepreneurship and income generation at the local level.
Eswatini cultural practices can fuel new industries. Eswatini’s music, dance, and storytelling traditions can be transformed into thriving creative industries. This can involve music production, fashion design inspired by traditional wear, and the establishment of cultural centres showcasing the history and heritage of emaSwati. These industries will not only generate revenue but also create employment opportunities for artists, designers, and cultural practitioners.
A strong cultural identity can be a powerful marketing tool. Eswatini’s unique cultural heritage can differentiate its products and services in the global marketplace. Products made with traditional techniques and imbued with cultural significance can fetch premium prices. This can position Eswatini as a source of authentic and high-quality goods, attracting a specific and loyal customer base.
Cultural practices can further strengthen social cohesion, a vital ingredient for economic development. Shared traditions and values promote a sense of unity and belonging, which can translate into a more stable and productive workforce. Cultural events bring people together, creating a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, both essential for economic progress. Hlophe likened such to the magnitude of Umhlanga and Buganu which are ceremonies that attract many emaSwati who come together to share the festivities and heritage. He called on schools to also enhance the cultural commemoration activities like that which was hosted at his school.
Despite the immense potential,
Hlophe echoed the words of both Mkhuzweni Principal Raymond Ndlovu and Senior Inspector Mohammed that cultural decay presents a challenge. According to the educator, factors like modernization and globalization can lead to the erosion of traditional practices. “This is where institutions like schools play a crucial role.”
He said; “Take Mkhuzweni High School’s cultural day which is a commendable example to prevent cultural erosion. By hosting such events and inviting dignitaries like the well-informed Siswati Language National Inspector, schools can help preserve cultural heritage and educate younger emaSwati about its importance.”