King Mswati III of Eswatini, the world's last remaining absolute monarch, has assembled a royal family that blends deep tradition with modern complexities. Since ascending the throne in 1986, he has taken multiple wives through customary ceremonies like the Umhlanga Reed Dance. His current marital circle includes 11 wives, 2 late spouses, 2 ex-wives who have since remarried, and 1 soon-to-be queen.

Here’s the full breakdown of the 16 women connected to the Swazi king:

Current Wives
Inkhosikati LaMatsebula – His first ceremonial wife, upholding royal customs.

Inkhosikati LaMotsa – Second ceremonial wife; also advocates for development as a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador.

Inkhosikati LaMbikiza (Sibonelo Mngometulu) – Married in 1986; a legally trained senior royal advisor.

Inkhosikati Carol Dlamini (LaNganganza) – Wed in 1987; active in public engagements.

Inkhosikati LaMahlangu (Zena Soraya) – A controversial 2002 union that drew public scrutiny.

Inkhosikati LaMagongo (Nontsetselo) – Married in 2002.



Inkhosikati LaGija (Angela) – Another 2002 bride.

Inkhosikati LaNtentesa (Noliqhwa Ayanda) – Married in 2005; holds a human resources diploma.

Inkhosikati LaNkambule (Phindile) – Joined the royal household in 2007.

Inkhosikati LaFogiyane (Sindiswa Dlamini) – Former beauty queen, married in 2013.

Inkhosikati Siphelele Mashwama – Became a royal wife in 2017.

Late Wives
LaMasango (Senteni) – Died in 2018.

LaDube (Nothando) – Lost to cancer in 2019.

Former Wives (Now Remarried)
LaHwala (Putsoana) – Left royal life in 2004; now lives in South Africa.

LaMagwaza (Delisa) – Departed the palace in 2004; said to have remarried and settled in South Africa.

Future Royal Bride
Nomcebo Zuma – Daughter of ex-South African President Jacob Zuma; engaged in September 2024.

From scholars to pageant winners, each of King Mswati III’s wives represents a different facet of Eswatini’s monarchy—where age-old customs meet modern-day influence and debate