Ngwenyama facts for kids
Quick facts for kids iNgwenyama of Eswatini |
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Arms of His Majesty the iNgwenyama of Eswatini
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| Incumbent | |
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| Mswati III since 25 April 1986 |
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| Details | |
| Style | His Majesty |
| Heir apparent | None declared |
| First monarch | Mkhulunkosi |
| Residence | Lozitha Palace, Lobamba, Eswatini |
The iNgwenyama is the title for the male ruler of Eswatini, a country in Southern Africa. It means 'Lion' in the Swazi language. People sometimes call him the King of Eswatini. The iNgwenyama rules alongside the Ndlovukazi, who is usually the king's mother or another important royal woman. She holds a special spiritual role.
The current iNgwenyama is Mswati III, who became king in 1986.
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What Does iNgwenyama Mean?
The word Ingwenyama means "Lion" in the Swazi language. However, it's used as a special, respectful title, not to describe an actual lion. For a real lion, the Swazi word is libhubesi. The "i-" at the beginning of "iNgwenyama" means "the king."
The King's Powers
The iNgwenyama has several important powers in Eswatini, covering different parts of life.
Economic Powers
The iNgwenyama owns almost all the minerals found in Eswatini. This means he controls how these valuable resources are used. He also oversees other parts of the mining industry.
Government Powers
The iNgwenyama plays a big role in the government. He can choose 20 members for the Senate of Eswatini (the upper house of parliament). He also picks 10 members for the House of Assembly of Eswatini (the lower house). The iNgwenyama is also the head of the country's court system and leads the Swazi National Council, which is a traditional advisory body. Many local leaders in Eswatini are chosen by the iNgwenyama or by people he has appointed.
Cultural Powers
The iNgwenyama has many duties related to the culture and traditions of Eswatini. He can decide how land is used and start national gatherings. He also helps share wealth, organizes social events, and takes part in important traditional ceremonies.
The king has special praise singers called griots. These griots appear at public events and sing songs that celebrate the iNgwenyama's good qualities. It is considered a very serious crime to disrespect the iNgwenyama or the Ndlovukazi, or to harm their property. It is also against the law to wear the ruler's clothes, use their special medicines, or get too close to them.
Religious Importance
The iNgwenyama has a special role in the country's religious life, especially during the annual Incwala festival.
During the Incwala, the iNgwenyama performs a ritual with sacred water. This act signals the end of the old year. On the second day of the festival, young people gather special tree branches and place them in a sacred area. The iNgwenyama then sings with his people in this area, which shows their loyalty to him. Later, the iNgwenyama lights a special fire. The main goal of the Incwala festival is to help Eswatini have a successful and prosperous year. Some people also believe the iNgwenyama can influence the weather, even causing rain.
History of the Monarchy
Kings have played a key role in Eswatini's history. For example, Sobhuza II helped modernize the country. In the past, a royalist political group called the Imbokodvo National Movement often won most of the seats in government. This gave them strong control when political parties were allowed.
King Mswati III has also made changes to the traditional system of governance, bringing in some modern institutions.
How a New King is Chosen
The iNgwenyama is traditionally succeeded by one of his male sons. The choice of which son will become king is often based on the good qualities of his mother.
See also
