In a surprising turn of events, Nomcebo Zuma — daughter of former South African president Jacob Zuma — has left the royal palace of eSwatini, ending her short-lived union with King Mswati III. The 22-year-old royal bride, who became one of the Swazi monarch’s many wives, reportedly walked away from the marriage, citing emotional strain and long periods of separation from her husband.
Sources close to the palace revealed that Nomcebo found the realities of polygamous life overwhelming. Although she was aware of King Mswati’s traditional marital structure, which includes over 14 wives and more than 50 children, she allegedly struggled to accept spending months without seeing her husband. The young bride expressed feelings of loneliness and frustration, stating that she could no longer cope with being one among many.
Nomcebo’s departure, culturally referred to as kwemuka in Swazi tradition, is a deeply significant act that traditionally prompts intervention from the husband’s side of the family. Following this custom, King Mswati has dispatched a delegation of royal negotiators to Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal — the Zuma family homestead — to persuade her to return.
However, the reunion effort has hit a political and familial wall.
Former President Jacob Zuma has reportedly refused to engage with the negotiators. Insiders claim that Zuma never supported the marriage from the beginning, believing it was not in his daughter’s best interest. His refusal to meet with the royal delegation highlights the growing tension between the two powerful families and casts doubt on the likelihood of Nomcebo’s return to the palace.
Royal insiders suggest that Nomcebo’s departure may not be temporary. Unlike other wives who have previously left but later returned, she is said to be firm in her decision to leave for good. If her stance holds, it could spark a rare public break from royal marital traditions in eSwatini, a country deeply rooted in custom and patriarchal values.
The marriage had garnered significant attention across southern Africa, not only due to the high-profile families involved but also because of the growing conversation around women’s autonomy within royal and traditional structures. Nomcebo’s choice to walk away is already being viewed by some as a bold stand for self-worth and emotional well-being, especially within a context where young royal wives are often expected to adapt quietly.
King Mswati III, Africa’s last absolute monarch, remains one of the most powerful traditional leaders on the continent. His polygamous lifestyle has frequently drawn both local criticism and international scrutiny, especially in a country where many citizens continue to struggle with poverty while royal excess is on full display.
As the royal delegation continues its efforts to reconcile the couple, all eyes remain on Nkandla. Whether Nomcebo will return or chart a new path outside the palace walls remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: this royal departure has shaken the kingdom.