“Don’t look into the eyes of the King’s wives,” says Eswatini’s High Commissioner

Eswatini’s High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Mahlaba Almon Mamba, has drawn attention to a unique cultural tradition of the Southern African monarchy, stating that it is traditionally forbidden to look directly into the eyes of King Mswati III’s wives.

This cultural practice, he explained, is a mark of respect and reverence within the Swazi royal household, and visitors are expected to observe it, especially during the monarch’s ongoing state visit to Ghana.

A royal entourage rooted in balance

The High Commissioner further revealed that King Mswati III, who is currently in Ghana for a diplomatic engagement, is accompanied by his entourage, including his 15 wives, each carefully selected from different regions of Eswatini.

“The wives of the King are chosen from all across Eswatini to ensure regional balance and representation,”
H.E. Mamba noted.

This symbolic diversity, he said, reflects the monarch’s commitment to national unity through tradition.

Cultural diplomacy in focus

The King’s presence in Ghana marks a significant cultural and diplomatic milestone as both nations seek to deepen bilateral relations. King Mswati III’s four-day state visit includes high-level engagements with President John Dramani Mahama, bilateral trade talks, and cultural visits to institutions such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat and the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

The Eswatini King, also known as Ingwenyama, remains one of the world’s few absolute monarchs. He has ruled the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) since 1986 and is widely known for blending traditional customs with modern statecraft.

Read More: King Mswati III Visits Ghana for Four-Day Diplomatic Mission