No Eye Contact with the Queens: Eswatini King’s Visit to Ghana Sparks Cultural Fascination
Envoy Reveals Sacred Customs as King Mswati III Meets President Mahama During 4-Day State Visit
Edem Latsu Nukafu eljourno 
The High Commissioner of the Kingdom of Eswatini to Ghana, H.E. Mahlaba Almon Mamba, has revealed a fascinating royal tradition during the state visit of King Mswati III, stating it is customarily forbidden to look directly into the eyes of the King’s wives.
The striking revelation came as the Eswatini monarch concluded a four-day official visit to Ghana, where he held high-level talks with President John Dramani Mahama and showcased the vibrant cultural identity of his kingdom.
According to the High Commissioner, King Mswati III—Africa’s last absolute monarch—is accompanied by 15 wives, each deliberately selected from different regions of Eswatini to reflect national unity and balance in the royal household.
“This is not merely a ceremonial choice. The selection is rooted in centuries of tradition aimed at ensuring regional representation and harmony in the monarchy,” H.E. Mamba explained.
The King’s visit featured dazzling displays of Eswatini’s royal customs, including traditional dance, regal attire, and symbolic gestures—leaving Ghanaian spectators in awe of the kingdom’s rich heritage.
While in Accra, King Mswati III and his entourage engaged with Ghanaian dignitaries and explored avenues for bilateral cooperation in trade, culture, and tourism.
The Eswatini delegation’s presence sparked public interest, not just for their grandeur but also for the strict cultural codes that govern royal conduct—especially the reverence and distance required when interacting with members of the royal family.
The visit was marked as a significant step in strengthening Ghana-Eswatini diplomatic relations, highlighting shared values of heritage preservation and mutual respect.
