Thousands of young women have gathered at Ludzidzini Royal Residence in Eswatini for the annual Umhlanga, or Reed Dance, one of the country’s biggest cultural ceremonies, a traditional ceremony centred on chastity and Swati heritage.
The main ceremony took place on Monday, August 31, 2026, with King Mswati III attending the celebrations as thousands of participants filled the Ludzidzini arena.
The ceremony brings together unmarried young women, known as Imbali, from different parts of Eswatini and beyond.
Participants traditionally cut and carry reeds to the royal residence, where they present them to the Queen Mother. The reeds are used to maintain the protective enclosure around her residence.
The event features traditional songs, dancing and colourful Swati ceremonial attire and is intended to promote cultural identity, unity and the preservation of Swati traditions.
Chastity and virginity are also central themes of the ceremony, with traditional leaders using the occasion to encourage young women to uphold cultural and moral values.
The Reed Dance is also closely associated with the Eswatini monarchy. King Mswati III has historically selected wives in connection with the ceremony, although this is not the sole or official purpose of the annual event.
The 2026 ceremony attracted thousands of participants, visitors and dignitaries as Eswatini celebrated one of its most prominent cultural traditions
