Eswatini Army Honours Fallen Heroes at Umsizi Day Commemoration

The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) recently held the annual Umsizi Day commemoration at its headquarters in Nokwane, Eswatini. The event was attended by members of the country's security forces, senior government officials, and former security chiefs. They gathered to pay tribute to the fallen servicemen who contributed to the country's military history. His Majesty King Mswati III was represented by Liqoqo Chairman Paul Dlamini, while Deputy Prime Minister Senator Thulisile Dladla represented Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini.

The commemoration was also attended by representatives from other security institutions, including the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) and His Majesty's Correctional Services (HMCS). This collective presence demonstrated the country's security establishments' commitment to remembering those who served before them. Former commanders and heads of security institutions were also in attendance, adding significance to the occasion as the country reflected on the sacrifices made by earlier generations.

During the ceremony, the fallen heroes were remembered through a gun salute and the laying of wreaths. These gestures symbolized the country's respect and gratitude towards those who answered the call to serve during World War II, many of whom never returned home. Umsizi Day is an important occasion on the national calendar, commemorating Swazi men who participated in World War II under British command.

The Swazi men who participated in World War II were recruited into the African Auxiliary Pioneer Corps, with responsibilities including transport, construction, engineering, and logistical support to Allied military operations in North Africa and Europe. Historical accounts indicate that thousands of Swazi men participated in the war, with historian Hamilton Simelane estimating that close to 4,000 were recruited for the war effort.

The commemoration also recognises the sacrifices made by the families of the servicemen, who endured years of uncertainty while their loved ones served in foreign territories. The significance of Umsizi Day has grown over the years as the number of surviving veterans has dwindled. In November 2023, Moses Mhhushile Khumalo, aged 100, was identified as the country's last surviving World War II veteran.

The country is working to preserve the history of the servicemen and ensure that younger generations appreciate the contribution made by their forefathers. Through the gun salute, wreath-laying ceremony, and participation of current and former security leaders, the country once again paid tribute to those whose sacrifices helped shape its history.

The Umsizi Day commemoration serves as a reminder of the importance of honouring the country's fallen heroes and preserving its military history. The event demonstrated the country's commitment to respecting and remembering those who served and sacrificed their lives during World War II.

Key points

• The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) held the annual Umsizi Day commemoration at its headquarters in Nokwane, Eswatini, to honour emaSwati who served and sacrificed their lives during World War II.
• The commemoration was attended by members of the country's security forces, senior government officials, and former security chiefs.
• The event recognised the sacrifices made by the families of the servicemen and the country's efforts to preserve its military history.