BY DRAXON MALOYA & HRH PRINCESS EUGENE MAJURU
At the recent extraordinary Southern African Development Community (SADC) heads of state and government summit, King Mswati III of Eswatini made a surprising departure from tradition by opting for a Western-style suit instead of the customary African royal outfit. King Mswati had done well to arrive in his traditional outfit.
King Mwati arriving for SADC 2024
The decision disappointed many Africans who view Eswatini as a stronghold of African heritage and one of the continent’ remaining monarchies. Eswatini, Morocco and Lesotho are the three remaining African Monarchies.
Symbolism and Tradition: Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s monarchy plays a significant role in preserving and promoting African traditions.
A descendant of the Mbari clan, Her Royal Highness Princess of Harare in Zimbabwe Princess Eugene Majuru said the African royal outfit, characterized by vibrant colors, intricate beadwork, and regal designs, symbolizes cultural pride, identity, and continuity.
“By wearing a suit, King Mswati III deviated from this tradition, leading to disappointment among those who expected him to showcase the country’s unique heritage,” said Princess Eugene Majuru.
Expressing his opinion a Malawian journalist passionate about the reporting on African Heritage, Allan Chirwa said the SADC Summit would be one of the platforms for African leaders to demonstrate support for their ancestral backgrounds unlike promoting the colonial legacy.
“The choice of attire extends beyond fashion —it reflects broader issues related to sovereignty and independence,” said Chirwa.
Some argue that African leaders who adopt Western attire during official gatherings inadvertently perpetuate a colonial mindset, despite being independent nations, African countries often face challenges related to economic dependence, political influence, and external pressures.
Several academicians have also described the summits as missed opportunities referring the likes of King Mswati III’s presence as an opportunity to celebrate African fashion and empower local artisans in job creation and poverty reduction in line with the short and long term development agenda and the 2063 United Nations sustainable development goals.
“African fashion designers and tailors could have benefited from showcasing their art works at the SADC Summits, creating jobs for youth and contributing to economic growth,” reads one of the journals from the University of Bulawayo.
HRH Princess Eugene Majuru further states that other African leaders, like former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, have proudly worn traditional African attire during international events, emphasizing their cultural roots.
On Promoting dialogue and unity, the SADC Summit could have been a platform to celebrate African diversity and unity by embracing African heritage, leaders could have reinforced the message that Africa is more than just a collection of nations—it is a continent with a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions.
In summary, King Mswati III’s choice of attire sparked debate and highlighted the delicate balance between tradition, modernity, and national identity.
However, While some view it as a missed opportunity, others hope that future gatherings will celebrate Africa’s vibrant heritage and promote dialogue among member states. Zimbabwe did well by making the team welcoming the delegates wear traditionalnoutfits with the Zimbabwe bird, entertainmeners were also seen waering clothing made from the national fabric bearing the Zimbabwe bird, well done Zimbabwe.
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