His Majesty King Mswati III Summons Imbali for 2025 Umhlanga Reed Dance
His Majesty King Mswati III has officially summoned the nation’s maidens (Imbali) for the first leg of this year’s annual Umhlanga Reed Dance Ceremony, commencing with arrival and registration on Tuesday, 2 September 2025.
The royal proclamation was delivered by Indvuna yeMbali Bongiwe Hlatjwako, marking the beginning of one of Eswatini’s most cherished cultural events. The Umhlanga Reed Dance brings together thousands of young maidens from across the Kingdom to celebrate purity, unity, and national pride.
The official schedule for the 2025 Umhlanga ceremony is as follows:
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2 September: Arrival and Registration Day
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3 September: Maidens travel to various centres to cut the reed
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4 September: Reed cutting ceremonies take place
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5 September: Maidens return to Ludzidzini Royal Residence
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6 September: Rest day for the maidens
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7 September: Presentation of the reed before Their Majesties
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8 September: Main Day of the Umhlanga Reed Dance Ceremony
In recognition of this significant cultural occasion, His Majesty King Mswati III has declared Monday, 8 September 2025, a public holiday throughout the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Bayethe Wena Waphakathi!


