The Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) and Pigg’s Peak Town Council joined forces to celebrate the country’s vibrant culture and create opportunities for creatives to showcase their talents. The partnership came to life at the Pigg’s Peak Town Inter-Ward Cultural Festival, attended by notable guests, including Speaker in the House of Assembly Jabulani Mabuza, Deputy Speaker in the House of Assembly Madala Shongwe, Hhohho Regional MP Tenele Shongwe, Pigg’s Peak Town Mayor Sipho Shongwe and ENCAC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Stanley Dlamini, to name a few.

The festival was more than a celebration of culture, it also gave nominees in the ongoing National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) a platform to perform and campaign for votes. Culture teams including Sibhaca, Lutsango, Ingadla and African Dance also took centre stage, treating attendees to spirited performances.

In his remarks, ENCAC CEO Stanley Dlamini shared the importance of cultural festivals like this, the value of collaboration and culture’s role in contributing to the economy.

“The cultural sector also contributes to people’s livelihoods and to the wider economy. Many emaSwati have built businesses, found employment and created opportunities through culture. The performers and creative teams gathered here are sharing their talent and, through opportunities like this, they can also earn an income, support their families and develop their work. Culture is not only a way of life, but also a source of opportunity and economic activity,” Dlamini said.

His Majesty King Mswati III recently gave clear instructions to create opportunities for emaSwati, particularly young people. The Pigg’s Peak Town Inter-Ward Cultural Festival helped bring the town a step closer to fulfilling the King’s call. Those who attended the cultural festival helped create a platform where young people and creatives could showcase their abilities, connect with others and access new opportunities.