Eswatini’s Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has thrown his full weight behind the Standard Bank Luju Festival, calling it a giant celebration of Swati pride, culture, music, and money-making magic.
Speaking to reporters at the iconic House on Fire on Saturday, the PM praised organisers and sponsors for turning Luju into one of the Kingdom’s hottest attractions, drawing visitors from across the globe while giving local businesses a chance to shine.
“This is really important for the country. It is us sharing who we are with the world,” Dlamini declared.
The PM said Luju now stands proudly alongside national cultural giants such as Umhlanga, Incwala, and the Buganu Festival, helping keep Swati traditions alive while putting Eswatini on the international tourism map.
But it was not just about dancing and good vibes.
Dlamini applauded exhibitors for transforming indigenous knowledge, traditional crafts, and Swati culture into world-class products that can compete globally.
He urged entrepreneurs to keep innovating and building sustainable livelihoods from local heritage.
And when it comes to the music, the PM did not hide his excitement.
“I like Afro jazz. I like Afro beats. I like music with an Afro sound. I think music originally is from Africa, so the best will come from Africa,” he said with a smile.
He encouraged emaSwati to flock to the festival, enjoy the entertainment, and spend their money locally, saying every ticket, meal, and purchase helps strengthen Eswatini’s growing home-grown economy.
Luju, it seems, has become more than a festival, it’s a full-blown Swati economic and cultural powerhouse!
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