King Mswati III urges Africans to document cultural practices amid globalisation

His Royal Majesty, King Mswati III of Eswatini, has called on Africans to guard and preserve their time-honoured traditions and cultural practices in the face of increasing globalisation.

Addressing a grand durbar of chiefs and people of Asanteman at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Thursday, the visiting monarch expressed concern over the threat globalisation poses to the continent’s cultural identity. He stressed the urgent need for Africans to protect what makes them unique.

“We should document our practices for future generations,” the visiting monarch remarked, and stated that the culture and traditions show the identity of the African people.

King Mswati emphasised that traditional leaders have a crucial role to play in this endeavour by ensuring the proper documentation of Africa’s cultural wealth for posterity. He noted that cultural preservation is not just about honouring the past but about defining the future identity of the continent.

Reflecting on Africa’s cultural inheritance, he said the continent's forebears passed on a legacy of traditions, and it was the duty of the present generation to safeguard and enrich it for those yet to come.

The king expressed admiration for the Asante people and their remarkable efforts in keeping their culture alive, particularly through the leadership of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

“I have seen the history and display of Asante heritage during my visit, and it's a living testimony and reaffirmation of traditional leadership on our continent,” the king remarked.

He applauded Otumfuo for preserving more than 400 years of Asante history through the Manhyia Palace Museum, saying it was a commendable feat deserving of continental recognition.

He described Otumfuo's 26 years reign on the Golden Stool as a “beacon for African traditional rulers”, emphasising that Otumfuo is championing Africa's true identity as a people.

King Mswati III, however, stressed that preserving culture must go beyond ceremony and symbolism. He underscored the importance of linking cultural heritage with economic development.

Citing Eswatini’s success story, he explained how the kingdom has harnessed the power of its cultural festivals to drive tourism and generate revenue for local communities.

“We have been using our festivals to attract tourists into our country, and this policy has been attracting funds to support the economy. Revenue from tourism continues to grow,” he stated.

He encouraged other African nations to adopt similar strategies by turning cultural celebrations into economic opportunities that benefit their people.

Impressed by the richness of Asante tradition, the Eswatini king extended a personal invitation to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to attend a national cultural festival in Eswatini. He expressed hope that his visit would foster stronger developmental, social, and economic relations between the two kingdoms.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Nana Otuo Serebuo, Paramount Chief of Juaben, Otumfuo welcomed the gesture and expressed gratitude for the historic visit.

“King Mswati III's visit should strengthen the Asante and Eswatini kingdoms,” the Asantehene stated.

He called for expanded economic ties between the two traditional realms to uplift their people and praised King Mswati for his dedication to upholding the customs and traditions of Eswatini.

“Your visit shows unity and progress among African kings,” he noted.