In celebration of His Majesty King Mswati III’s birthday, Imisebe Publishing proudly adds its voice to the national tribute under the theme “Leadership Under the Spirit of Nkwe.” This theme honors visionary leadership, cultural heritage, and enduring contributions to national development. As a fully Swati-owned publishing house established in 2009, Imisebe Publishing embodies His Majesty’s vision of a progressive, educated, and culturally grounded Eswatini.
A Legacy of Enlightenment
The company’s name, Imisebe Yelilanga—meaning “the rays of the sun”—reflects its mission to enlighten the nation through literature and learning. With a team that brings over five decades of editorial expertise, Imisebe Publishing plays a pivotal role in the national educational landscape. The company continues to produce high-quality, curriculum-aligned educational materials that serve both learners and educators across the Kingdom. By empowering local authors and leveraging modern publishing platforms, Imisebe is not only fostering a love for reading and writing but also ensuring that education remains accessible to all emaSwati.
Cultural Stewardship at the Buganu Festival
As a gesture of cultural reverence and national unity, Imisebe Publishing participated in the 2025 Buganu Festival at the Hlane Royal Residence. This annual celebration of the marula harvest stands as a vital expression of Swati identity. During the festivities, the Imisebe Regiment proudly presented gifts to Their Majesties, affirming the company’s deep respect for tradition and community. Through its active participation in such events, Imisebe underscores its role as a steward of Swati heritage and a promoter of national pride.
Preserving Language, Strengthening Identity
Understanding that language is central to cultural identity, Imisebe Publishing has undertaken significant efforts to preserve and promote siSwati. Notable projects include:
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“Emagugu EmaSwati”, an educational guide exploring cultural rites like Umhlanga, Buganu, Butimba, Incwala, and Lusekwane.
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“Umphandza”, a comprehensive monolingual siSwati dictionary tailored for primary and secondary learners.
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A series of siSwati literature titles such as “Asibhale Indzaba”, “Wena Bowungatsini”, and “Lifa” that celebrate and preserve Swati heritage.
These publications are more than books—they are instruments of cultural empowerment and identity formation.
Sibitelo NeMisebe: A New Frontier in Language Education
In 2023, Imisebe broke new ground with the launch of Sibitelo NeMisebe, Eswatini’s first national siSwati spelling bee incorporating digital technology. The initiative has grown rapidly, engaging high schools across the country. Swazi National High School emerged as the first national champion, followed by Big Bend High School in 2024. In 2025, the competition was extended to private schools, with Sifundzani High School taking the top spot. This groundbreaking event fosters linguistic excellence and cultural pride among young emaSwati, encouraging both academic and personal growth.
Looking to the Future
As the nation honors His Majesty’s legacy, Imisebe Publishing renews its commitment to shaping a brighter Eswatini through knowledge, culture, and education. Embodying the Spirit of Nkwe—a symbol of resilience, courage, and excellence—Imisebe stands as a pillar of national development. With every publication, program, and partnership, it continues to illuminate the path forward for the Kingdom of Eswatini.
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