High Commissioner Shares Eswatini Cultural Rule During King’s Visit
Eswatini’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Mahlaba Almon Mamba, announced on June 24, 2025, that it is taboo to make direct eye contact with the wives of King Mswati III. The warning came when the king arrived in Ghana for a state visit, accompanied by some of his 15 wives chosen from various regions for balance.
The cultural rule, rooted in Eswatini tradition, shows respect for the king’s queens. Mamba shared this during a JoyNews interview, explaining that the king’s visit aims to strengthen ties with Ghana. King Mswati III was welcomed at Kotoka International Airport by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and other officials before meeting President John Mahama.
The king’s itinerary includes a historic meeting with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in Kumasi, and a visit to the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat in Accra. The taboo has sparked curiosity in Ghana, with locals urged to follow the custom to honor Eswatini’s culture during the visit, ending June 28.
Mamba emphasized that the king’s wives hold a special status, and avoiding eye contact is a sign of respect. This visit, the first by an Eswatini monarch to Ghana, highlights cultural and economic connections, including talks on trade and tourism between the two nations.
As Ghana hosts King Mswati III, the public is encouraged to embrace Eswatini’s traditions. The High Commissioner’s notice aims to ensure a smooth visit, fostering mutual respect and deepening the bond between Ghana and Eswatini during this historic trip.