King hails progress in Mankayane during longawaited return
MANKAYANE Town has gotten a face-lift since 1995. After 29 years, His Majesty King Mswati III graced the picturesque town of Mankayane with his presence, which was a momentous occasion filled with nostalgia and hope for the Mankayane folks.
The King’s return to Mankayane was met with jubilation and excitement as the nation gathered to celebrate His Majesty’s 56th birthday in grand style. During the birthday celebration held at the Mankayane Stadium, His Majesty King Mswati III reflected on his last visit to the town, reminiscing that in the year 1995, when he last set foot in Mankayane. The King expressed his delight at returning to Mankayane after all these years when he addressed the enthusiastic crowd. His Majesty emphasised the significance of the occasion and the fond memories he holds of the town.
“It is a great pleasure for me to join you all at this 56th birthday celebration here at Mankayane,” remarked His Majesty King Mswati III, stating that the last time he was in the town was in 1995.
“This is a memorable day, and we are glad to see so many diverse smiles across the stadium. I am greatly humbled and overjoyed that you are here to celebrate my birthday.”
To the crowd, the King highlighted the importance of the occasion and His Majesty expressed the significance of bringing together the people and the monarchy, which is strengthening peace and stability in the nation. He expressed gratitude to God for preserving unity and honouring the nation with a sense of purpose, particularly in the face of challenges.
His Majesty King Mswati III commended the progress made in Mankayane since his last visit, noting various investment initiatives planned for the town, including a factory shell, tourism sites, a sports pavilion, and a shopping centre- stating that these developments hold immense potential to create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region.
“We are thrilled to return to this town once again, and we still have fond memories of the last birthday celebrations here in 1995,” said His Majesty King Mswati III.
“We welcome the progress that has been achieved in the region since then, but there is still ample room for further expansion and development.”
In addition to celebrating His Majesty’s birthday, the event is also a platform for the Monarchy to bless and inaugurate various development projects in Mankayane and its surrounding areas. These projects include the Sicunusa-nhlangano Highway, the Magubeleni Clinic Road, and the minibus station opposite the factory shells in Nhlangano. The King officially blessed the projects and signified a commitment to infrastructure development and improved public services.
His Majesty King Mswati III further lauded and expressed his gratitude to all emaswati who contributed to the success of the event, including performers, wellwishers, and attendees. Thousands of emaswati joined Their Majesties to celebrate the King’s Birthday. They came from all corners of the Kingdom, with some coming from neighbouring countries.
Long live the King, long live Eswatini!
In a display of unwavering loyalty and deep-rooted affection, the people of Eswatini came together in a vibrant celebration of their beloved monarch, His Majesty King Mswati III.
The Mankayane Sports Ground was a sea of colours as thousands of emaswati gathered to honour their King on his special day. From the early hours of the morning, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation. Flags fluttered in the gentle breeze, creating a kaleidoscope of blue, yellow, white, and black, symbolizing the unity and pride of the nation. Traditional regalia added a touch of cultural richness to the occasion, showcasing the unique heritage of the Eswatini people.
As the sun rose higher in the sky, the festivities kicked off with a series of captivating performances that set the stage for a day filled with joy and jubilation. The Dumako Brothers, inspired by the legendary Soul Brothers, brought the crowd to their feet with their infectious rhythms, while Linda Dlamini’s soul-stirring gospel set lifted spirits and touched hearts.
The highlight of the event was the arrival of Her Majesty the Queen, greeted with cheers and whistles that echoed across the sports ground. But the true moment of magic came when His Majesty King Mswati III made his grand entrance, greeted by a deafening roar of adoration from his people. It was a sight to behold, a w testament to the deep bond between the King and his nation.
The trooping of the colour ceremony was a spectacle of precision and grace, with the guard of honour executing flawless rifle drills that mesmerized the onlookers. However, it was the young Prince Mkhandlowenkhosi who stole the show with his commanding presence and exceptional rifle displays, showcasing talent and poise beyond his years.
As the day ended, pupils from various schools came together to pay tribute to their King, presenting him with a shield adorned with a heartfelt “Happy Birthday” message. It was a touching gesture that captured the spirit of unity and reverence that defines the relationship between emaswati and their beloved King.