Jacob Zuma’s Daughter Becomes 16th Wife Of King Of Eswatini
Nomcebo Zuma
Nomcebo Zuma, daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, has officially married King Mswati III of Eswatini, marking a significant union that strengthens ties between two prominent southern African families. The traditional ceremony, held on Monday night, followed the customs and polygamous practices of Eswatini’s royal family.
At just 21 years old, Nomcebo becomes the 16th wife of King Mswati III, Africa’s last absolute monarch. Her marriage to the king reinforces the long-standing relationship between the royal family of Eswatini and influential political figures in the region. The Zuma family holds significant sway in South African politics, and this union brings an additional layer of political and diplomatic influence.
King Mswati III, known for his polygamous lifestyle, often selects wives from influential families to solidify alliances. This marriage continues that tradition, strengthening regional connections through familial ties. While the marriage has garnered considerable attention, it also highlights the ongoing global debate around the role of polygamy and women’s rights in Eswatini.
In the past, King Mswati faced criticism for his marriages, especially after lifting a self-imposed ban on relationships with girls under 18, aimed at curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS. Nomcebo’s age, however, has quelled some of this opposition, with critics noting that she is not a teenager.
As the newest member of Eswatini’s royal family, Nomcebo’s union with King Mswati III symbolizes both cultural tradition and the intricate intersection of politics, power, and royalty in southern Africa.