King Mswati III of eSwatini is set to embark on a high-profile overseas trip with his new wife, Inkhosikati Nomcebo Zuma, which is projected to cost taxpayers more than R200 million. The extravagant expenses associated with this journey have raised eyebrows among the nation’s citizens.
According to local publication Swaziland News, the hefty price tag encompasses allowances for the royal delegation accompanying the king, the costs of flying on a private jet, and personal spending money for both King Mswati and his 21-year-old bride. This trip comes amid ongoing economic challenges in eSwatini, where many citizens are grappling with rising living costs and limited public resources.
The king departed eSwatini on Sunday and is scheduled to attend the World Food Forum in Italy. Following this, he will make a state visit to Serbia before participating in the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa. The itinerary highlights the king’s commitment to engaging with global leaders on various issues, but it has also drawn criticism for its significant financial implications for the eSwatini government.
In response to inquiries regarding the financial aspects of the trip, the king’s spokesperson, Percy Simelane, distanced the royal office from responsibility for the funding, directing queries to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Attempts to reach Foreign Affairs Minister Pholile Dlamini-Shakantu, who is reportedly part of the king’s entourage, were unsuccessful, leaving many questions unanswered about the trip’s funding.
Additionally, reports have surfaced alleging that Zuma’s daughter has included friends and family in the delegation. Insiders suggest that this inclusion is intended to ensure that the young queen does not feel isolated during the journey. The presence of her relatives may serve to support her as she navigates her new role as a member of the eSwatini royal family.
The marriage proposal to Nomcebo Zuma was made in July, when the king asked for her hand in marriage, marking a significant union between eSwatini and South Africa. Nomcebo’s mother, known only as MaMhlongo, is a prominent businesswoman, further linking the royal family to influential circles.
In the early stages of their relationship, a delegation consisting of senior members from both the eSwatini and Zulu royal families visited Zuma’s homestead in Nkandla, where they presented 10 cattle as part of the customary “kucela” marriage practice, demonstrating the importance of tradition in royal unions.
Sources close to the royal family revealed that King Mswati first laid eyes on Nomcebo during the 55-55 celebrations held last year. This event, steeped in cultural significance, marked a pivotal moment in their relationship, eventually leading to the engagement and subsequent marriage.
As King Mswati prepares for his luxurious overseas trip, the financial burden on the taxpayers of eSwatini raises critical questions about the prioritization of public funds, especially in a country facing economic hardships. While royal engagements and diplomatic missions are important, the extent of the expenses involved in such lavish travels continues to spark debate among citizens who seek accountability and transparency from their leaders.
Leave a comment