King Mswati III of Eswatini, Africa’s last absolute monarch, has built a royal household that reflects tradition, beauty, and controversy. Since taking the throne in 1986, he has married multiple women through the Umhlanga (reed dance) and royal ceremonies. Currently, he has 11 active wives, 2 deceased, 2 separated and remarried, and 1 fiancée preparing to join the royal family.
Here’s a complete look at all 16 women linked to the king:
1. Inkhosikati LaMatsebula – First ritual wife, symbol of tradition.
2. Inkhosikati LaMotsa – Second ritual wife, also a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador.
3. Inkhosikati LaMbikiza (Sibonelo Mngometulu) – Married 1986; a law graduate and senior royal adviser.
4. Inkhosikati Carol Dlamini (LaNganganza) – Married 1987; active in public roles.
5. Inkhosikati LaMahlangu (Zena Soraya) – Married 2002 amid public controversy.
6. Inkhosikati LaMagongo (Nontsetselo) – Married 2002.
7. Inkhosikati LaGija (Angela) – Married 2002.
8. Inkhosikati LaNtentesa (Noliqhwa Ayanda) – Married 2005; HR diploma holder.
9. Inkhosikati LaNkambule (Phindile) – Married 2007.
10. Inkhosikati LaFogiyane (Sindiswa Dlamini) – Former Miss Cultural Heritage, married 2013.
11. Inkhosikati Siphelele Mashwama – Married 2017.
Deceased Wives
LaMasango (Senteni) – Died in 2018.
LaDube (Nothando) – Died in 2019 from cancer.
Separated and Remarried
LaHwala (Putsoana) – Left the palace in 2004; now lives in South Africa.
LaMagwaza (Delisa) – Left in 2004; reportedly remarried, now raising her daughters in South Africa.
Engaged
Nomcebo Zuma – Daughter of ex-President Jacob Zuma; engaged during Umhlanga in September 2024.
From pageant queens to legal scholars, each wife tells a unique story. Together, they reflect the intersection of Swazi custom, royal power, and modern womanhood.
Source: Kass FM (Asante Mampong)