Nomcebo Zuma, 22, daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, has left her marriage to King Mswati III of Swaziland, exiting the royal palace and returning to her family’s homestead in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal. Sources close to the palace say Nomcebo struggled with the emotional toll of the king’s polygamous lifestyle, which includes over 14 wives and more than 50 children. Despite knowing the traditional structure, she reportedly found the long periods of separation from her husband isolating and overwhelming.

In Swazi tradition, a wife’s departure, known as kwemuka, prompts the husband’s family to intervene. King Mswati has sent a delegation to Nkandla to negotiate Nomcebo’s return. However, Jacob Zuma, who allegedly opposed the marriage from the outset, has refused to meet the negotiators, deepening tensions between the two influential families.

Insiders suggest Nomcebo’s decision may be final, marking a rare public challenge to eSwatini’s royal marital customs. Her choice has sparked discussion about women’s autonomy in traditional settings, with some praising her stand for personal well-being.

King Mswati III, Africa’s last absolute monarch, faces ongoing scrutiny over his polygamous lifestyle amid eSwatini’s economic challenges. As negotiations continue, Nomcebo’s next steps remain uncertain, with her departure reverberating across the region.