Nomceba Zuma, daughter of South Africa’s former president Jacob Zuma, has confirmed her engagement to Eswatini’s King Mswati during a traditional Reed Dance ceremony. The event, held on Monday evening at the Ludzidzini Royal Village in Lobamba, was attended by 5,000 participants from across the kingdom.
The Reed Dance, a significant cultural celebration in Eswatini, serves as both a rite of womanhood and a selection occasion for the king’s new wives. Nomceba Zuma, 21, was presented as the “liphovela,” which designates her as the royal fiancée or concubine.
During the ceremony, Nomceba joined hundreds of young women and girls in vibrant traditional dress, performing dances with imitation swords and shields in front of King Mswati and his entourage.
King Mswati, who has ruled Eswatini by decree since 1986, already has at least 14 wives and 25 children. His brother confirmed last week that Nomceba would be attending the Reed Dance as his chosen fiancée.
Jacob Zuma, Nomceba’s father, is also known for his polygamous traditions, having fathered at least 20 children. He resigned from the presidency of South Africa in 2018 amid corruption scandals.
The Reed Dance ceremony is a highlight of Eswatini’s cultural calendar, where the king’s selection of new wives is publicly announced.
Eswatini, a small kingdom in Southern Africa, has faced criticism for its royal family’s opulent lifestyle, especially given that nearly 60% of its population lives on less than $2 a day. Despite these criticisms, the traditional ceremonies continue to play a central role in the kingdom’s cultural and political life.
The engagement of Nomceba Zuma to King Mswati marks a significant moment in the kingdom’s royal history, blending South African and Eswatini traditions.