LETISHISAKO~ THE SHOW THAT TALKS ABOUT WHAT REALLY MATTERS

 Tindzaba Letishisako: The Morning Radio Show That Breaks Down the News for emaSwati!

Written by: Anele Shabangu 

Picture this: it’s early in the morning, and you’ve just heard the 7:00 am news on EBIS 1. The headlines are fast and serious, new government rules, maybe a national emergency. You think to yourself, “But what does this really mean for me?”

That’s where "Tindzaba Letishisako" steps in, an EBIS radio show that takes you beyond the headlines and helps you understand what’s really going on in Eswatini.

So, dear reader here's a brief background about the show, Tindzaba Letishisako.

Tindzaba Letishisako first aired in June 2008, it wasn’t just another program added to the schedule — it was a fresh idea with a serious goal: to go beyond the headlines and give emaSwati the full story. Back then, the show was hosted by Cedusizi Ndlovu, a respected senior editor whose calm voice and sharp interviews helped build the program’s strong reputation. Under his guidance, Letishisako became a trusted space where truth was unpacked, issues were explained clearly, and listeners were respected.

Over the years, the show grew, and today it’s hosted by different anchors from the EBIS news department. Each host brings their own style and voice, but the purpose of the show remains the same , to inform the nation, honestly and deeply.

Letishisako unpacks or simplifies various issues giving meaning to the ordinary lister, as the show’s legacy is built on clarity, truth, and service to the public — and for nearly two decades, it has delivered just that.

Its purpose has never changed: to make sure every liSwati has access to accurate, detailed, and helpful information that can guide their daily lives. In a world full of noise, Letishisako remains a voice of clarity — and that’s why it continues to matter.

That one song every liSwati knows

Before a single word is spoken, before any guest is introduced, Letishisako makes its mark with the signature music that precedes every episode. For many Emaswati, this isn’t just an intro, it’s a familiar indication that immediately signals the start of something important. The moment that tunes plays after the 7:00 am news bulletin, it’s like a switch has flipped. To the everyday listener, whether you’re a student rushing to school, a worker on the way to the office, or a parent preparing the kids for the day, that music is a daily reminder of where the time stands. It’s more than just the start of a program; it’s a subtle timekeeper. If you hear it, you know it’s past seven and that means the show is starting, whether you’re ahead of schedule or just realizing that you're already running late.

The trademark signature tune  is Sosaseka by Condry Ziqubu, a piece of music has a unique way of resonating with every listener across the country. For some, it’s a symbol of their morning routine, setting the tone for their day, while for others, it’s a reminder that they need to catch up and get moving!!!

What Is Letishisako All About?

Letishisako is not your ordinary news show. While the news gives you short updates, this show unpacks important issues and explains them in full.

There are no listener call-ins. The focus is on delivering clear and accurate information, without distractions.

Who Should Tune In?

Letishisako is for everyone — whether you’re a student, a parent, a worker, or a community leader. The topics affect all emaSwati, so the show speaks directly to the people.

It’s done fully in SiSwati, making it easy to understand for all citizens. And because the show doesn’t repeat, it encourages listeners to tune in live — so they don’t miss out.

How Swazis Benefit from Letishisako ?

Listening to Tindzaba Letishisako each morning has become more than just a routine for many Swazis — it’s a habit that empowers. At a time when headlines can be confusing or rushed, this show provides clarity and depth, helping listeners truly understand the issues that matter most. 

Whether it’s a change in government policy, a public health warning, or news about national development, Letishisako doesn’t just report the facts — it explains what they mean and how they affect ordinary people.  

For many Emaswati, the program serves as a reliable guide through the noise of everyday news. It breaks down complex issues in simple SiSwati, making information more accessible to everyone, regardless of age or education level. A teacher in Siteki, a farmer in Lavumisa, or a student in Mbabane can all tune in and walk away with the same understanding of what’s going on in their country. It’s like sitting in on a national conversation, where the voices of experts and officials bring the truth closer to home.   

What makes Tindzaba Letishisako even more valuable is how the topics often connect directly with listeners’ daily lives. When the show discusses fuel price increase, for example, it doesn’t just say they’re rising — it explains why, how it impacts transport, food prices, and even school fees. When it covers a new health policy, it goes beyond statistics to explore how the change will affect clinics, rural outreach, and access to medication. That real-life connection is what makes people come back to the show every day — they feel seen, heard, and informed.

And in a world where misinformation spreads fast, Letishisako stands as a trustworthy source. It encourages thoughtful conversations in homes, workplaces, and communities, and inspires Emaswati to ask better questions, make smarter decisions, and take an interest in their country’s progress. It’s not just a radio show — it’s a tool for awareness, growth, and unity.

So, whether you’re on your way to work, preparing the kids for school, or just starting your day, Letishisako offers more than just news, it gives you the understanding behind the headlines, delivered with care, honesty, and purpose.

Why Letishisako Still Matters?

For over 17 years, Letishisako has done something simple but powerful: it helps Swazis understand what’s going on in their country. It turns headlines into knowledge, and confusion into clarity.

In a time where quick news comes and goes, Letishisako reminds us that it’s okay to slow down and truly understand.

So tomorrow morning, after the 7:00 am bulletin, don’t touch that dial. Let Letishisako guide you through the real story, because an informed liSwati  is an empowered liSwati.

 

EBIS MARKS 59 YEARS IN MADLANGEMPHISI.

Madlangemphisi Turns Up for EBIS 59th Birthday: A Celebration to Remember!

By: Anele Shabangu

Hey hey, wonderful listeners of the EBIS radio!

If you missed the EBIS’ 59th birthday celebration at Madlangemphisi, then you missed out on one of the most heartwarming, energetic, and unforgettable community events of the year! But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with all the juicy highlights from this epic day that brought together tradition, joy, and radio magic.

When EBIS announced that their 59th birthday celebration would be held at the beautiful and vibrant community of Madlangemphisi, excitement instantly began to build. And when the day finally arrived, the inkhundla was packed as early as 10 AM, the community showed up in numbers, dressed in smiles and wrapped in anticipation. The air was buzzing with anticipation and excitement as the EBIS team rolled into the community, transforming an ordinary day into a celebration of fresh vibes, laughter, poetry and dance.

You could see happiness written on every face as ululations filled the air, celebrating not just the 59 incredible years of EBIS, but also the birthday of the station’s Director, Sabelo Dlamini. Yes, it was a double celebration, and the vibes were unmatched! The event was nothing short of spectacular with a perfect blend of fun, games, dance, live performances and prizes that kept the multitudes of attendees on their feet and grinning from ear to ear.

One of the most exciting moments was when EBIS broadcasters introduced themselves to the crowd. For many, it was a dream come true to meet the voices they’ve grown to love from the radio. The crowd lit up as personalities like Gcebile “White Hippo” Mvubu, Sinethemba “Ntfombitebsika” Dlamini, Sandile “Sweet Banana” Dlamini, Siphesihle “Sihlabani Sebenguni” Nxumalo, and Bongani “Bobo” Dlamini took the stage as MCs and kept the energy flowing all day long.

The event was also graced by former EBIS Radio personalities who were proudly introduced to the masses of Madlangemphisi, making an emphasis on the significance of EBIS radio to the nation and also the birthday celebration.

Part of the former broadcasters who graced this beautiful event were; Sigayoyo ‘Sgi’ Magongo, a legendary broadcaster that left an impressive mark on the Eswatini broadcast media landscape and the ever so bubbly Lindiwe “Yellow Rose” Mavuso, who is also known for the famous country Music program aired on EBIS I. Nathi “Mdockies” Hlophe, a Member of Parliament for Mtfongwaneni Inkhundla, also a former EBIS broadcaster also made an appearance and addressed the crowd.

Madlangempisi MP Honourable Allen Vilane, and the Indvuna Yenkhundla of the area, Alex Tsabedze, were present to warmly welcome the EBIS team and join in the festivities. They expressed their gratitude to Sabelo Dlamini, the EBIS director and staff members for making this day memorable to the people of Madlangemphisi. It was also amazing to be joined by the National Director of The Voice of the Church (VOC), Rev. Zechariah Mthethwa, who informed the gathering that the formation of VOC was a project initiated by the late former EBIS Director, Abner Tembe.

And what’s a celebration without surprises? EBIS brought the fun with a quiz session where lucky winners walked away with goodies like stationery, cash prizes, and branded EBIS sports bags. Even better, in the spirit of winter, warm blankets were handed out to the elderly, a gesture that touched many hearts. The performances of the day were a marvel with many artists from around the area and across Eswatini showcasing their talent. To top it all, the celebration was graced by top South African amapiano artist Blaq Major of ‘Sidakiwe Sbali’ fame.

The people of Madlangemphisi brought the fire with vibrant ummiso, sibhaca, and ingadla dances, along with poetry and music performances that had the crowd cheering nonstop. And what made the event to be more interesting is that the 1pm news bulleting was read live to the audience—yes, right there at the event! That is precisely what we mean by bringing radio to the people.

It was a moment that reminded us of the power of community connection as Liphimbo Lesive Eswatini. 

Director Sabelo Dlamini closed off the day with heartfelt thanks, expressing deep appreciation to the people of Madlangemphisi for showing up in such large numbers and for their endless support over the years.

What a way to mark 59 years of broadcasting excellence! EBIS, you’ve not only entertained and informed the nation for nearly six decades, but you’ve also become a cherished part of our lives.

Here’s to many more birthdays, many more milestones, and many more unforgettable moments!

And if you are interested to see more of the videos that were captured from this beautiful event you can click here!