EGOCWENI, ZOMBODZE - It was a momentous day for the royal family, the Vilakati family and the Zulu royal household as Prince Bambindlovu paid lobola for his wife, Precious, at Egocweni, Zombodze, yesterday.
The event, conducted entirely in Siswati, commenced on Friday with the payment of 19 live cows to the Vilakati family and culminated in the umembeso ceremony.
During this traditional occasion, the Swati people learnt valuable insights from the Zulu concerning marriage. Umembeso was described as an event, where the groom honours his in-laws for their role in raising the child who has become a suitable spouse.
The proceedings began with the exchange of gifts. Prince Bambindlovu’s mother-in-law, Brenda Vilakati, was presented with offerings including a pot, groceries, blankets and other items. Similarly, the bride’s father Makhundvu Jabu Vilakati was honoured with a suit, blankets and additional gifts before the entire family was acknowledged. The event then moved to the formal introduction of the pride, followed by the groom honouring of her with a blanket decorated with money.
In a symbolic gesture of approval for the marriage, regiments of Lutsango, Imbali and warriors performed a series of songs in what is known as sibhimbi. The pride captivated the audience by sweeping the arena with kutsamba.
The Zulu delegation, which has a long-standing historical relationship with Eswatini – further strengthened by Prince Mantfombi and King Goodwill Zwelithini – expressed their gratitude for the warm welcome extended to them since their arrival.
They shared sentiments emphasising the enduring relationship between the two kingdoms. Notably, Prince Bambindlovu had previously declared his love for Vilakati by donning her a red feather during the annual Reed Dance (Umhlanga) Ceremony at Ludzidzini Royal Residence in 2022. Following this declaration, His Majesty King Mswati III sent a delegation to formally report to the Zulu Kingdom, and appropriate logistical arrangements were subsequently made, leading to the event.
The occasion was attended by Emakhosikati, members of emabandla and other guests. Umbutfo Lugedlemba, speaking on behalf of Sigombeni, declared that Their Majesties had undertaken the responsibility to ensure the success of the event.
