Swazi Media Commentary

Swaziland Newsletter No. 922 – 10 April 2026

2026-04-10T02:30:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 922 – 10 April 2026

News from and about Swaziland, compiled by Global Aktion, Denmark (www.globalaktion.dk) in collaboration with Swazi Media Commentary (www.swazimedia.blogspot.com), and sent to all with an interest in Swaziland - free of charge. The newsletter and past editions are also available online on the Swazi Media Commentary blogsite.

We won’t promote same sex marriages – King

By Joseph Zulu and Mlondzi Nkambule, Times Sunday, 5 April 2026

SOURCE

LOBAMBA: Should same-sex marriages be allowed?

This was the question male worshippers asked during the Easter service session yesterday, among three topics they had chosen for discussion. It was also the same question presented to His Majesty the King at the end of the session.

In response, the King, speaking at Engabezweni Royal Residence where the service was held, declared that Eswatini would not endorse practices he likened to those of biblical Sodom and Gomorrah, reaffirming the country’s adherence to Christian values, cultural traditions and moral teachings. When the King made this statement, the worshippers responded with resounding applause, clapping in agreement and shouting; “Wena wa Phakathi!”

The King made the remarks during the Easter service gathering attended by church leaders from across the country, where discussions centred on faith, family, morality and national identity. His address, which formed the highlight of the event, followed earlier submissions by senior church leaders who emphasised peace, unity and the protection of Christian values.

“We will not promote Sodom and Gomorrah,” the King said firmly, drawing reference to the biblical story as he spoke against same-sex marriages, which he noted were being legalised and encouraged in some parts of the world.

The Easter gathering, held in a spirit of worship and reflection, brought together pastors and congregants from around the country, who engaged in theological discussions and shared teachings based on the Bible. They selected six topics but ultimately decided on three, which were presented to His Majesty the King for final guidance.

The King commended the initiative, saying it demonstrated love for God. He said Eswatini could not have any other life without God and noted with appreciation that worshippers from congregations across the country were in attendance. “Today we have seen large churches from around the country. We are very happy. God will bless us for what we are doing,” said the King.

He added that a day like this allowed preachers to teach one another and that the Bible contains revelations. “When you translate what it actually says, you begin to see the difference. Some read the Bible like a novel or a bedtime story, but when pastors sit down and discuss it, everything is explained properly,” said the King.

The King noted that the topics discussed during the gathering were not only relevant locally, but also reflected broader global debates, particularly around morality and social values.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=We+won%E2%80%99t+promote+same+sex+marriages+%E2%80%93+King+&yiphi=3451&bvhdgsj=News

See also

King Mswati receives huge support for banning Gays and Lesbians in Eswatini, Swaziland News story trending in SADC countries (Swaziland News)

https://swazilandnews.co.za/articles/351

King reaffirms stance against same-sex relations (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/king-mswati-stance-same-sex-relations-eswatini/

Cabinet Ministers might support vote of no confidence against Prime Minister Russell Dlamini amid division in Cabinet

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 6 April 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Thulisile Dladla, the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) might soon act as the Prime Minister amid a looming vote of no confidence against PM Russell Mmiso Dlamini who stands accused of corruption, undermining the authority of Parliament and dividing Cabinet thus delaying service delivery in the country.

It has been disclosed that, Members of Parliament (MPs) are already holding meetings, lobbying against the PM whose fallout with Parliament escalated after he attempted to interfere with the budgeting process while disregarding the functioning of State institutions but, the Finance Committee led by Lobamba Lomdzala Member of Parliament (MP) Marwick Khumalo quickly intervened and stopped the PM from messing-up the National Budget.

Appointed MP Prince Lindani, Princess Nkosungumenzi, Hhukwini MP Alec Lushaba, Deputy Speaker Madala Mhlanga and Nhlambeni MP Manzi Zwane are among the members of Finance Committee who stopped the Prime Minister from manipulating the National Budget, preventing what was to become a National budgeting crisis.

But the Prime Minister subsequently ran to Senate seeking Senators intervention in overruling the House of Assembly, however, the learned Attorney General (AG) Sifiso Mashampu Khumalo subsequently told Senators that, the House of Assembly “has more powers when it comes to issues of the National Budget”.

As a result, a few days later King Mswati signed the Appropriation Bill of 2026 into law after the House of Assembly passed the National Budget, submissions made by some Senators including Princess Ncengencenge were ignored after the AG provided legal advice suggesting that, Senators have no power to change the National Budget passed by the House of Assembly.

To read more of this report, click here

https://swazilandnews.co.za/articles/371

See also

Cracks In Cabinet: How ministers have publicly challenged PM (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/cabinet-divisions-ministers-challenge-pm-eswatini/

PM Russell Mmiso Dlamini secretly takes flight to Johannesburg to allegedly meet his Lesotho Advisors on democratically elected Prime Minister (Swaziland News)

https://swazilandnews.co.za/articles/342

MPS demand law to stop elderly land evictions

By Ntombi Mhlongo, Times of eSwatini, 9 April 2026

SOURCE

EZULWINI: MPs have called on government to introduce stricter laws to protect elderly citizens from being dispossessed of their land under the guise of farm ownership, as well as from losing their properties in urban areas due to unpaid rates.

This happened yesterday during a workshop on the ratification of international legal instruments, held at Happy Valley Hotel.

Mbabane East Member of Parliament (MP) Welcome Dlamini highlighted provisions within the protocol aimed at safeguarding the welfare of older persons, including the need for pensions and broader social protection services.

He suggested that the Deputy Prime Minister’s (DPM) Office could take the lead in implementing an indigent policy, particularly by establishing a comprehensive database of elderly citizens.

“We need accurate data on elderly persons so that they can benefit from these protections,” said Dlamini.

“Many are struggling to pay municipal rates, which often results in their properties being auctioned. There should either be exemptions or a special rating system tailored for them.”

Gege MP Magesi Dlamini echoed similar concerns, noting that while government efforts to build houses for the elderly were commendable, more needed to be done to address food insecurity.

“Some of these elderly people are dying of hunger. We need to consider introducing community kitchens (emadladla), similar to those established for children, to ensure they have access to basic nutrition,” he said.

He further emphasised the need for stronger legislative measures following the ratification of the legal instruments, particularly in addressing urban property rates and ensuring adequate social protection.

MP Magesi also raised concerns about the current social grant system, questioning whether it was equitable.

“There are individuals earning substantial incomes who are still receiving social grants. We need to review such issues to ensure fairness and proper allocation of resources,” he said.

Additionally, he called for laws that would compel employed individuals to support their elderly parents, arguing that neglect of older family members was a growing concern.

“Parents are often left to care for grandchildren without sufficient support. While they do so out of love, they suffer because their children fail to provide for them,” he added.

During the discussions, some MPs argued that ratifying international legal instruments would have a limited impact if they did not translate into tangible benefits for the elderly.

Mbabane East MP Welcome Dlamini makes a submission at the workshop

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=MPS+demand+law+to+stop+elderly+land+evictions&yiphi=3494&bvhdgsj=News

Cambodian deported by US faced ‘misery’ in eSwatini prison

AFP, 7 April 2026

SOURCE

PHNOM PENH: A Cambodian refugee long-settled in the United States, ex-convict Pheap Rom, remains bewildered at how he wound up behind bars in the African nation of Eswatini for months after being swept up in Donald Trump’s deportation blitz.

When Rom and nine other men — shackled and escorted onto a plane by US authorities — landed in the kingdom of Eswatini in October, they were greeted on the tarmac by a squad of “military guys with guns and masks,” the 43-year-old said.

“I didn’t know what was going to happen,” he told AFP in an interview in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, where he was repatriated in late March.

“I didn’t understand why I was being deported to Africa because I’m Cambodian.”

Rom is one of around 20 men the United States has deported to landlocked Eswatini — bordering South Africa and Mozambique — under a Trump administration scheme challenged in courts and described by rights advocates as akin to “human trafficking.”

Eswatini, Africa’s last absolute monarchy, is among several “third countries” accepting migrants under shadowy deals enabling the US president’s push for mass deportations.

The nation formerly known as Swaziland agreed to accept up to 160 deportees in exchange for around $5.1 million, with plans to forward them to their home countries after Washington said their direct repatriations were denied.

But Rom — living in the United States with “permanent resident” status since 1985 after his family fled Cambodia’s genocidal Khmer Rouge regime — is just the second to be repatriated from Eswatini, after a Jamaican was returned home last year.

The remainder may still be trapped inside the deportation process, opaque even to those inside it.

Rom served a 15-year prison sentence in the United States after pleading guilty to attempted murder for firing a gun during two neighborhood disputes, leaving several people wounded.

“I know what I did was wrong,” he said. “I accepted my punishment.”

He was detained by immigration authorities upon his release in November 2024, and his green card was revoked after an immigration judge ordered his deportation due to his felony conviction.

He expected to be sent to Cambodia. But landing in Eswatini was like turning back the clock to his prison term, Rom said.

His jailers seemed unaware that the men had served their time and looked at them as if they were “criminals because of what the (US) administration was portraying us to be.”

For the first two months at the Matsapha Correctional Center, Rom said he and fellow deportees “went through misery” — allowed outdoors for only 15 minutes a day and given one weekly phone call.

“We had an attorney there that was willing to try to come and talk to us, but they weren’t letting that attorney in,” he said.

Lawyers in Eswatini have corroborated his claim to AFP, saying they have been repeatedly denied access to people expelled by the United States who have been detained without charge.

Eswatini’s government has said US deportees were “in good hands” and receiving health care, including counselling.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2639101/world

How a single administrative error sparked 10 months of critical medication shortages in eSwatini

By Subusiso Dlamini, Daily Maverick (South Africa), 8 April 2026

SOURCE

Eswatini’s medicine crisis deepened after a Ministry of Health administrative lapse caused critical medication shortages, leaving patients without the necessary treatments for pain and mental health conditions.

Records and insider testimony from Eswatini’s main pharmaceutical supplier have revealed how a simple, avoidable administrative error by the government in 2023 probably led to a months long stockout of several critical medicines.

Following the error, the Ministry of Health suspended Fortunate Bhembe, the only official empowered to authorise controlled medicine imports, without preparing for the resulting disruption to the supply chain.

Leaked high-schedule stock cards from SwaziPharm — the Eswatini government's primary pharmaceutical supplier — reveal a dire shortage of essential medications between February and November 2024. During this period, stock levels for critical drugs used to manage pain, epilepsy, and psychiatric conditions remained at zero.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2026-04-08-how-a-single-administrative-error-sparked-10-months-of-critical-medication-shortages-in-eswatini/

SWAZI MEDIA COMMENTARY

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 921 – 3 April 2026

2026-04-03T02:30:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 921 – 3 April 2026

Fuel shortage hits Mbabane, scramble ensues

By Ntombi Mhlongo and Mbongiseni Ndzimandze, Times of eSwatini, 1 April 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Several filling stations within the Mbabane Central Business District (CBD) were hit by a fuel shortage yesterday, forcing motorists to scramble for fuel outside the city.

Most service stations in the capital had run out of petrol, leaving frustrated motorists with no option but to drive to surrounding areas in search of fuel.

There were long queues at filling stations in Sidwashini, Ezulwini and Hilltop, as motorists flocked to the few outlets that still had fuel.

At a Galp Filling Station in Ezulwini, a notice placed at the entrance informed motorists that only diesel was available, with petrol stocks depleted.

Motorists interviewed expressed frustration over the situation, saying they had to travel long distances after being turned away from several filling stations in Mbabane.

“We have been moving from one filling station to another in town, only to be told there is no petrol. Now we have to queue here for hours,” said one motorist.

Another said the situation was affecting daily operations, particularly for those who rely on vehicles for business and commuting.

The shortage comes amid growing concerns over fuel supply challenges in the country, which have been attributed to global supply disruptions.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Fuel+shortage+hits+Mbabane%2C+scramble+ensues&yiphi=3419&bvhdgsj=News

See also

Fuel shortages may drive bus fare hikes, warns NRTC (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/fuel-shortages-fare-hikes-nrtc-warning/

Fuel prices shoot up, govt provides E334m cushion (Times of eSwatini)

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Fuel+prices+shoot+up%2C+govt+provides+E334m+cushion+&yiphi=3431&bvhdgsj=News

Pupils expelled for same sex

By Bongiwe Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 30 March 2026

SOURCE

Six pupils are currently idling at home after being found to be involved in same-sex relationships.

The girls, three couples, were reportedly expelled from Dvokolwako High School last Monday.

Sources close to the matter said the decision to dismiss the learners was made following a vote by a majority of the parents with children at the school.

Impeccable sources disclosed that prior to the decision, on Thursday, March 19, school authorities discovered that some learners from different grades were involved in romantic relationships. It is alleged that several couples were identified, some heterosexual, while 10 learners were involved in same-sex relationships.

While all pupils were punished for engaging in relationships, sources said only three of the alleged same-sex couples were confirmed.

A source alleged that these couples openly declared their sexuality in the presence of their parents, representatives of the parents’ body and school authorities including Headteacher Sabelo Sibandze.

However, Sibandze’s tenure is said to have elapsed on the same week.

Sources further revealed that the developments prompted a resolution to convene a parents’ meeting last Monday.

The report of same-sex relationships did not sit well with a majority of the parents, who reportedly voted for the six girls to be removed from the school.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/pupils-expelled-same-sex-relationships-eswatini/

See also

Parents to plead case for expelled Dvokolwako pupils (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/dvokolwako-parents-plead-expelled-pupils/

Government moves to scrap school fees

By Musa Nsibande, eSwatini Observer, 30 March 2026

SOURCE

The ministry of education and training is currently working on a proposal to raise funds for funding education, which could see school fees being scrapped completely.

Principal Secretary (PS) Naniki Mnisi explained that this could either come as a levy imposed on parents or mandatory contribution drawn from the salaries of all employed individuals towards the funding of education, which she described as an ‘education tariff’.

She said this could go a long way towards solving the financial problems dogging the country’s education system like arbitrary school fee hikes from school administrators, charging of unregulated fees or even non-payment of school fees by dodgy or irresponsible parents.

“The solution to all education issues around finances is an education tariff. We will make an adequate request through the right channels to Cabinet, and then Parliament,” she said.

The ministry is planning to bring in the regulation once they are done with the preliminary planning stages preceding selling the idea to Cabinet and ultimately bringing it to Parliament for final approval. Mnisi said the proposed law would check arbitrary fee hikes by school administrators and further cushion vulnerable children against the uncertainty engendered by parents who often renege from their promises to pay school fees.

The move comes after outcries over inconsistencies in the charging of school fees across the country’s schooling system, as well as complaints from school administrators who encounter challenges in running schools given similar inconsistencies from parents towards the payment of school fees.

The proposed law could either regulate fees charged by schools or ultimately abolish the payment of school fees, which could be funded from a mandatory contribution to be drawn from salaries of all employed individuals.

PS Mnisi said they were still trying to process the regulations, indicating that they were likely to settle for the latter, where a mandatory contribution would be sought from taxpayers towards the funding of education. According to a senior official, the ministry is consulting all stakeholders and trying to build a consensus before the move is implemented.

“There is a committee that has been put in place by the ministry to work on the spadework. The ministry is having internal discussions on this. It is also reaching out to relevant stakeholders for consensus,” said the senior official.

Interviewed parents welcomed the idea.

“But we will have to wait and see if its implementation works for everyone,” said a curious parent.

See also

Govt moves to cut teacher intake amid rising unemployment crisis (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/govt-cuts-teacher-intake-unemployment-eswatini/

‘No more than a drop in the ocean’: this drug could end new HIV infections in Eswatini – why isn’t there enough?

By Kat Lay, The Guardian (UK), 2 April 2026

SOURCE

The southern Africa country has the world’s highest prevalence of HIV but the amount of lenacapavir reaching it is too small to reach all those at risk

MBABANE: If Precious asks her client to use a condom, she can charge him 100 lilangeni – about £4.50. If she agrees not to use one, she can charge double. The financial incentive for sex workers in Eswatini not to use protection is obvious – as is the risk, in a country where one in four people are infected with HIV.

Last year, Precious visited a clinic with five other sex workers to get tested. Four of them had the virus.

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, has the world’s highest HIV prevalence. It records about 4,000 new HIV infections a year among its population of 1.2 million.

Its leaders hope that a new “miracle” drug, lenacapavir, will finally turn off the tap of new infections. Lenacapavir, given as an injection every six months, can prevent people from contracting HIV. Although it is not technically a vaccine, it is being referred to as one by patients and clinicians alike in this southern African country, one of the first to roll it out.

The question is whether lenacapavir will reach Eswatini – and other countries in the region – in sufficient quantities and at sufficient speed to turn the tide. It is arriving in the wake of hugely disruptive US aid cuts, which have hit HIV prevention efforts in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2026/apr/02/scarcity-hiv-prevention-drug-lenacapavir-hampers-rollout-eswatini

Community-led co-creation advances sustainable tourism in eSwatini’s Matsanjeni Cultural Landscape

UNESCO, 2 April 2026

SOURCE

Communities in Eswatini are taking the lead in shaping the future of sustainable tourism in the Matsanjeni Cultural Landscape, following a high-level national work planning session convened by UNESCO, the Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC), and the National Commission for UNESCO (NatCom) from 25 to 26 March 2026. The two-day session brought together traditional leaders, government institutions, and cultural stakeholders to agree on concrete actions that will guide the development of culture and heritage-based tourism in Matsanjeni North Inkundla.

Moving beyond dialogue to action, the session was designed as a hands-on working platform rather than a conventional workshop. Participants translated findings from recent baseline studies into a clear, prioritising interventions focusing on practical, implementable solutions and strengthening collaboration among stakeholders to deliver shared results.

This was not a typical workshop, it was a working session where co-creation is central. The value lies in bringing everyone together to jointly define what needs to be done and how we move forward collectively.

Participants agreed on a set of concrete, action-oriented measures to drive the development of sustainable tourism in Matsanjeni, focusing on governance, destination development, storytelling, and community empowerment. Key priorities include establishing stronger coordination mechanisms and partnerships, developing culture and heritage-based tourism trails, and advancing destination planning through a structured approach such as a Destination Management and Marketing Organisation (DMMO).

The plan also places strong emphasis on sustainability and inclusion. Stakeholders committed to integrated management approaches, ranging from disaster risk preparedness and improved visitor facilities to disability inclusion, ensuring tourism development benefits all. At the same time, efforts to enhance visitor experience will be strengthened through improved storytelling, documentation of local knowledge, and the training and professionalisation of local tour guides.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/community-led-co-creation-advances-sustainable-tourism-eswatinis-matsanjeni-cultural-landscape

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 920 – 27 March 2026

2026-03-27T03:30:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 920 – 27 March 2026

SNAT raises concerns over Grade Zero rollout, shortage of teachers

eSwatini Observer, (press reader edition), 23 March 2026

Swaziland National Teachers Association (SNAT) Secretary General Lot Vilakati has raised serious concerns over the shortage of teachers, funding gaps and challenges surrounding the rollout of Grade Zero.

Vilakati made the remarks during a live broadcast of People and Places on Yemaswati Channel on Thursday night, where he revealed that only 80 teachers had been deployed across more than 600 primary schools, forcing existing teachers to volunteer and take on additional workloads.

“This creates a chain reaction where learners ultimately do not perform well,” he said.

Vilakati further alleged that corruption within the ministry of education and training was pervasive, claiming it existed ‘from the main door to the last floor,’ and that teachers were being exploited at multiple levels.

He said corruption extended beyond recruitment processes to include serving employees, particularly in the salary advance programme. According to Vilakati, government allocates about E4 million weekly for over 45 000 civil servants, but the funds are insufficient and quickly depleted.

“As a result, those who want to be prioritised are forced to bribe their way through the system,” he said, adding that the service had effectively become transactional.

Vilakati also alleged that transfers and appointments, including those of headteachers, deputy headteachers and teachers, were influenced by bribery.

He said SNAT had previously submitted evidence of corruption to the ministry, including a detailed report in 2018, but no action had been taken.

Testify

“We have teachers who are willing to testify and name those they bribed, provided they are protected,” he said, noting that while SNAT condemns corruption, it also recognises that some teachers acted out of desperation.

Vilakati called for SNAT representation in the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), arguing that this would improve transparency and restore confidence in the allocation of posts.

He warned that decisions made ‘in the dark’ would continue to raise suspicion. Meanwhile, Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo acknowledged the concerns raised and said government was committed to addressing them, with improvements expected next year.

Nxumalo also revealed plans to propose a school maintenance contribution model, similar to a fuel levy, to address infrastructure challenges, including the construction of teachers’ houses.

He noted that government currently lacks a dedicated maintenance budget.

He further admitted that free primary education (FPE) and orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) grants had not been reviewed for some time, adding that a transformation team was already assessing challenges in schools.

See also

Govt to address issues undermining welfare of teachers (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/government-teachers-welfare-issues-nxumalo/

Family demands accountability for Silindile’s death

By Khaya Simelane, Times Sunday, 22 March 2026

SOURCE

KABHEKINKHOSI – We demand justice!

Those words, heavy with grief and sorrow, cut through the light cold early morning air at KaBhekinkhosi, under Luve where mourners had gathered to bid farewell to Silindile Dlamini.

It was just after dawn around 5am, at a moment when her siblings were invited to pay their last respects, which the deceased’s siblings unmistakably called for justice to be served for the death of their sister.

Speaking on behalf of the seven siblings, her brother who did not identify himself stood before the gathering to both speak on behalf of Silindile’s siblings and also read her obituary.

He succinctly made it clear that as a family, they could not accept a situation in which their sister’s life was taken so violently, only for those responsible to remain silent and free.

“Angeke umntfwana wakitsi ahudvulwe ngenhlavu bese kubanendvodza lekhululekile nje,” he said, a statement that drew murmurs from mourners. In simple translation, he was making a call to the effect that whoever was responsible for their sister’s death be arrested and face the full wrath of the law, rather than walk freely as though nothing had happened.

His words captured the simmering anger beneath the grief, a pain that, as he described it, he said it ran “as deep as the ocean”. He went on to read Silindile’s obituary, but even that solemn duty could not mask the anguish of a family grappling with a sudden and violent loss.

Silindile was killed last week after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head during a joint operation involving the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) and the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF). At the time of her death, she was a passenger in a Honda Fit sedan.

Her death has since sent shockwaves through communities, drawing widespread attention and raising difficult questions on whether justice would be served and the killer brought to answer for their actions.

The funeral itself unfolded under a thick cloud of sorrow, shaped as much by tradition as by tragedy.

In the early hours of the morning, at around 4am, Silindile’s body was moved from a small tent that served as temporary shelter to a large tent, which were attached to each other.

The tents were erected at the community’s sports ground, an arrangement which followed long-standing cultural beliefs in Eswatini, which hold that individuals who die violently, whether through accidents, shootings or stabbings should not be brought into the family yard.

Before the formal service began, friends and relatives were given an opportunity to view the body and bid their final farewells. Some mourners wept quietly, while others broke down completely, unable to contain their grief.

More than a thousand people from different parts of the country attended the funeral, a reflection of how deeply Silindile’s story had resonated beyond her immediate community.

See also

The eSwatini Police and Army remain unaccountable for the death of Slindile Dlamini and her unborn baby (Swaziland News)

http://swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=11671

Three reasons for elderly poverty in eSwatini

By Kale Overton, The Borgen Project, 23 March 2026

SOURCE

Nearly 60% of the Eswatini population lives below the national poverty line. While poverty affects much of the population, studies consistently find that older persons are overrepresented in these poverty rates. One can trace elderly poverty in Eswatini back to three structural factors: limited social protection, rural economic dependence and long-term effects of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. These structural factors continue to affect elderly poverty in Eswatini, and people across the country.

Weak Social Protection and Limited Pensions

Eswatini spends about 1% of its GDP on its social protection programs. This is the lowest share of GDP to social protection expenditure in the region. Social protection programs include the Old Age Grant, which gives a monthly stipend of E500 to Eswatini people age 60 and over. This amount, which translates to roughly $26 or €24, must stretch across multigenerational households.

According to the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), more than 70% of the Eswatini population depends on small-scale agriculture for income and subsistence. This means that workers do not contribute to formal pensions. Because of this, many elderly Eswatini people rely solely on the Old Age Grant.

Rural, Low-Productivity Economic Structure

About 75% of the Eswatini population live in rural areas, where poverty is highly prevalent, and depend on subsistence farming. Agriculture in Eswatini is vulnerable to drought and adverse weather, and the country ranks 128 out of 187 countries on the ND-GAIN climate vulnerability index. For older adults, this rural economic structure means income is often tied to physically demanding, climate-sensitive work.

Beyond income limitations, access to services also plays a role in elderly poverty. Rural communities often face limited access to healthcare facilities, transportation and formal employment opportunities. For older adults, traveling long distances to clinics or markets can add additional financial strain.

At the same time, high unemployment rates among younger generations reduce the likelihood that elderly parents will receive consistent financial support from adult children. In a country where generations often share household resources, economic instability affects not only working-age adults but also older family members who depend on collective income.

To read more of this report, click here

https://borgenproject.org/elderly-poverty-in-eswatini/

Families plead for detained foreigners’ return home

By Kwanele Dlamini, Times of eSwatini, 25 March 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Families of foreign nationals arrested in Eswatini are pleading with authorities to repatriate their relatives as the number of detainees rises to nearly 200.

The appeals come as this publication continues its coverage of the crackdown on the alleged illegal online gambling syndicate, which has drawn international attention and left families across several countries in distress.

In previous reports, this publication detailed how dozens of foreign nationals from countries such as Mainland China, Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan and Cambodia were arrested during police raids on premises in Mbabane, Ezulwini and along the Mbabane-Manzini corridor. The suspects were allegedly found operating unlicensed online gambling activities, with some houses converted into makeshift workstations equipped with computers. Some were arrested at Hawane and Woodlands in Mbabane last Friday.

Now, as investigations deepen and the number of accused persons climbs to about 200, families say they are grappling with shock, confusion and uncertainty, with many only learning of their relatives’ whereabouts through media reports.

Some of the families who spoke to this publication said their relatives had left home under the impression that they were pursuing legitimate employment opportunities.

One family from Indonesia said their relative had informed them that he was travelling to work in a hotel.

“The family was aware that he was travelling and he only said he was going to work at a hotel. We did not ask for further details about the location or the job,” said the family member.

The relative reportedly arrived in Eswatini earlier this month.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Families+plead+for+detained+foreigners%E2%80%99+return+home&yiphi=3342&bvhdgsj=News

Inside the ‘miracle’ drug rollout that could end Aids

A groundbreaking new drug to prevent HIV infection – the closest the world has to a vaccine – is being rolled out in some of the worst-hit countries in the world. Chief international correspondent Bel Trew reports from eSwatini, southern Africa, where there is hope that the pandemic could be brought to an end

The Independent (UK), 24 March 2026

SOURCE

Bottom of Form

Lianne was just 13 when she lost her parents to Aids. Newly orphaned, she had to find a way to keep herself and her younger sister alive. With no money to finish school, unable to find a job and struggling to put food on the table, there was only one option – sex work.

Now 24, she knows the dangers in Eswatini, a kingdom in southern Africa once described as the epicentre of the HIV epidemic and a country still struggling with some of the highest infection rates in the world.

“Both my parents passed away. Hunger led me to join this work although I know it’s risky,” Lianne says, explaining that she earns under £25 a week. She is unable to acquire HIV preventative medication – known as PrEP – on her own.

But there is now hope in the form of lenacapavir – dubbed the “miracle” drug – which the United Nations hopes can protect millions of people like Lianne and even end the Aids epidemic altogether.

The twice-yearly injection – described by the head of the UN Aids agency as “the closest thing we have to a vaccine” – provides near complete protection against infection.

Lenacapavir is being introduced for the first time in nine of the most at-risk countries, including Eswatini, meaning Lianne was among the first people in the world to get the injection.

While it is a big step forward in HIV care, concerns have been raised about the extent of the rollout and fears it will be ineffective if it is not introduced on a global scale.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/africa/hiv-lenacapavir-eswatini-aid-cuts-aids-b2942293.html

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 919 – 20 March 2026

2026-03-20T03:30:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 919 – 20 March 2026

eSwatini starts administering lenacapavir to curb spread of HIV

By Lunga Masuku, Reuters, 17 March 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Eswatini joined a handful of countries to officially roll out new HIV prevention drug lenacapavir on Wednesday, announcing that 2,000 ‌Swazis had received the jab since December.

The United States, where the drug was formulated, and seven other African countries with high HIV prevalence rates have introduced it so far.

“People have been very receptive,” Sindy Matse, ⁠programme manager for the Eswatini National AIDS Programme, told Reuters, adding that stock was nearly exhausted by the initial uptake.

U.S.-based Gilead Sciences' drug lenacapavir is a subcutaneous injection given twice a year. It aims to overcome problems associated with daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis pills (PrEP), such as forgetting to take them and failing to acquire enough ‌pills ⁠to keep taking them consistently.

Matse said the programme aimed to have it available in all 206 health facilities that had been offering PrEP.

Eswatini is a small South African kingdom formerly known ⁠as Swaziland.

Around a quarter of Swazis between the ages of 15 and 49 carry the virus, according to the latest data, ⁠from 2023, from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. But new infections fell by nearly threequarters between ⁠2010 and 2024, to 4,000 from 14,000, owing to better prevention and treatment, the CDC says.

Arrival of four more men under United States unlawful removal deal

Amnesty International, 13 March 2026

SOURCE

Four more men removed by the United States arrived in Eswatini on 11 March and are being detained in the Matsapha Correctional Complex, a maximum-security prison located some 2 kms from the country’s international airport.

According to information received by Amnesty International, the men – two Somali nationals, one Tanzanian national and one Sudanese national – arrived at around 11PM on a flight originating from Phoenix, Arizona.

“This latest unlawful transfer makes clear that the United States is continuing to send people to Eswatini under a secretive third-country removal arrangement, and that Eswatini is continuing to hold them in unlawful detention without transparency or adequate legal safeguards,” Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Vongai Chikwanda, said.

“People with no known ties to Eswatini are transferred there and arbitrarily detained while their fate is decided behind closed doors. The authorities in Eswatini must immediately disclose the legal basis for these detentions, guarantee regular and confidential access to lawyers and families, and guarantee due process to ensure that no one is held arbitrarily.”

In July 2025, the US removed a first group of five people to Eswatini where they were kept in arbitrary detention. This was followed by the removal of a further 10 individuals from the US to the Southern African country in October 2025. None were known to have ties with Eswatini, where human rights under the absolute monarchy continues to be curtailed.

“No one should be removed to a country where they face a real risk of unlawful detention, onward refoulement or other serious human rights violations. Both Eswatini and the United States must end this deeply abusive practice,” Vongai Chikwanda said.

Background

Under a Memorandum of Understanding signed on 14 May 2025 and published in the United States following a Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA) request, the government of Eswatini agreed to accept up to 160 third country national removed from the United States, in exchange for $5.1 million USD “to build its border and migration management capacity”.

According to media reports, three men previously deported from the United States to Eswatini have filed a complaint before the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, alleging that their prolonged detention is unlawful.

Education sector policy blamed for rise in teenage pregnancy

By Khaya Simelane, Times of eSwatini, 13 March 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: While the Swaziland Education and Training Sector Policy (EDSEC) has long been praised as a progressive step within Eswatini’s education sector, fresh concerns are emerging from communities and experts who fear that the policy may be unintentionally contributing to a rise in teenage pregnancies by normalising early motherhood.

The policy, adopted in 2011, guarantees pregnant learners the right to continue their education and return to school after giving birth. Supported by the country’s national Gender Policy, EDSEC explicitly states that schools must not permanently expel learners due to pregnancy.

Instead, school administrators are required to allow pregnant pupils to take time off to care for their babies and then return to the classroom to complete their studies.

Government directives issued in 2020 further reinforced the policy by instructing schools to ensure that pregnant learners are allowed to return to class, particularly to sit for examinations and complete their academic programmes.

The Ministry of Education and Training refers to this approach as the “re-entry rule”, a measure designed to ensure that teenage mothers are not permanently excluded from the education system.

The policy is rooted in the recognition of education as a fundamental human right, as outlined in the United Nations (UN) human rights framework, to which Eswatini is a signatory.

However, while the policy has been applauded for protecting the rights of vulnerable learners, statistics on teenage pregnancy continue to raise alarm, prompting some communities to question whether the policy is achieving its intended goals.

Data from international and national reports indicate that teenage pregnancy remains a persistent and growing challenge in the country.

A 2024 incidence report released by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) recorded more than 530 teenage pregnancies within specific regional contexts across the country.

Broader national statistics also paint a worrying picture.

Eswatini has one of the youngest populations in the region, with young people aged between 10 and 24 making up approximately 34 per cent of the population, translating to nearly 400 000 individuals out of the country’s 1.2 million people.

Population projections suggest that this youthful demographic will continue to grow in the coming years.

Education sector reports indicate that teenage pregnancy remains one of the leading causes of school dropouts among girls.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Education+sector+policy+blamed+for+rise+in+teenage+pregnancy&yiphi=3226&bvhdgsj=News

Toilets, showers for 85 arrested illegal foreign nationals

By Sibusiso Tsabedze, eSwatini Observer, 14 March 2026

SOURCE

Toilets, movable showers and sanitation have been allegedly promised to the 85 foreign nationals arrested for contravening the Immigration Act on Wednesday.

This comes after Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula was reported to have assessed the holding cells at the Mbabane Police Station, following complaints from the suspects over sanitation.

The news was revealed by the Crown and Desk Officer Inspector Akhona Dludlu at the Mbabane Magistrate’s Court where the suspects appeared.

During proceedings, concerns were raised regarding the conditions at the Mbabane Police Station where the accused persons are currently being held.

The suspects complained about a lack of proper sanitation facilities at the police station, particularly the unavailability of toilets and showers.

Defence attorney Nqobile Muringani informed the court that the ministry of health should be requested to assess the conditions at the police station to ensure that the health of the accused persons was not compromised.

He submitted that the police station needed to be assessed to determine whether it was suitable to house such a large number of detainees.

Responding to concerns raised by the defence, the Crown informed the court that Minister Matsebula had already visited the Mbabane Police Station to assess the conditions of the holding cells.

The Crown submitted that the minister had acknowledged the sanitation challenges and had promised that the matter would be addressed, including the provision of showers and improved sanitation facilities.

Meanwhile Inspector Dludlu also addressed the court regarding the matter. “We cannot run away from the truth. The minister of health came to assess the situation and they are working on fixing the issues,” the officer said.

The court emphasised the importance of ensuring that the accused persons were treated with dignity while in custody.

…. The accused persons include nationals from China, Brazil, Indonesia, Taiwan and Cambodia and they appeared before Principal Magistrate Fikile Nhlabatsi facing two counts related to unlawful entry and illegal employment in the country.

According to the charge sheet, the accused persons were allegedly found at one of the hotels in Mbabane on March 11.

The suspects were alleged to have wrongfully and unlawfully entered and remained in the country without possessing valid permits authorising them to do so.

On the second count the accused were charged for not being holders of valid permits allowing them to work in the country.

Court orders sanitation and showers for 85 foreign nationals detained at Mbabane Police Station after complaints about poor holding cell conditions

See also

Pastor’s wife questioned, 6 more foreigners arrested (Times of eSwatini)

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Pastor%E2%80%99s+wife+questioned%2C+6+more+foreigners+arrested&yiphi=3259&bvhdgsj=News

SACBC strengthens mission for migrants, refugees, and anti-human trafficking in eSwatini (SABC)

https://sacbc.org.za/sacbc-strengthens-mission-for-migrants-refugees-and-anti-human-trafficking-in-eswatini/

PM admits corruption in police service

By Nokuphila Haji, eSwatini Observer, 13 March 2026

SOURCE

Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini says there is a ‘cancer’ in the country that must be fought, admitting that corruption exists within the police service.

The prime minister was responding to allegations raised by Mayiwane MP Sicelo Dlamini, who claimed that some police operations, particularly in northern Hhohho, were being influenced by drug dealers and Asian nationals.

The PM applauded Dlamini for raising concerns about drug dealers allegedly influencing police operations, saying he had highlighted an important issue regarding corruption within the police service.

He said it was good that the matter had been raised in the presence of the police service.

“It is there and it is a cancer that we must fight. Individuals participate in corruption and spread it within institutions.

“Corruption is not institutionalised and I hope the podcasts you are referring to will clarify,” he said.

He also called for increased funding for new police vehicles, recruitment and promotions within the police service.

The PM said this would help the police service counter the alleged infiltration by drug dealers, as raised by the MP.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 918 – 13 March 2026

2026-03-13T04:30:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 918 – 13 March 2026

Ministers defend role in budget, dismiss interference claims

By Ntombi Mhlongo, Times of eSwatini, 6 March 2026

SOURCE

LOBAMBA: Cabinet ministers have come out strongly to defend their role in the national budget formulation process.

This emerged yesterday during the debate of the Report of the Finance Committee on Deliberations with the minister for Finance on the Appropriations for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 Financial Years, which was tabled in Parliament last Friday.

First to speak was Minister for Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi, who defended the Executive against claims that it is interfering in the National Budget process.

Buthelezi said there was no way the budget process could be conducted solely by technocrats until its conclusion without input from other stakeholders.

He said the fact that Members of Parliament (MPs) had made their voices heard by demanding an increase in elderly grants was in itself a sign that they were contributing to the process.

Buthelezi further said it would not benefit the country if the minister for Finance, after consulting Cabinet, made resolutions on the budget only for another minister to go before the Finance Committee and make separate demands.

Notably, before the start of the debate, Buthelezi sought clarity on whether adopting the report would undermine the powers of the Ministry of Finance Portfolio Committee.

In particular, he asked what would happen if the Finance Committee made resolutions on certain allocations that the portfolio committee might not agree with.

The clarification sought by the minister resulted in a back-and-forth exchange with the Chairperson of the Finance Committee and Lobamba Lomdzala MP Marwick Khumalo, who repeatedly explained that the practice had existed for some time.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet defence continued with Minister for Public Works and Transport Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, who said the budget formulation process is a difficult period for everyone involved.

Ndwandwe said this was because everyone had heard the Speech from the Throne and the concerns raised by citizens during Sibaya.

“We have heard what the people are saying. We have heard the advice of economists and the private sector on what needs to be done to develop our economy. It is a lot. Ministries appear before the Public Budgeting Committee and give it a headache. The process then goes to Cabinet, and all of this is done to ensure that we get it right. It is not easy,” he said.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Ministers+defend+role+in+budget%2C+dismiss+interference+claims&yiphi=3133&bvhdgsj=News

See also

Budget process is flawed – PM (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/eswatini-budget-process-flawed-prime-minister/

Budget is approved by Cabinet – PM (eSwatini Positive News)

https://eswatinipositivenews.online/budget-is-approved-by-cabinet-pm/

Three men deported by US file legal case against eSwatini over detention

By Rachel Savage, Guardian (UK), 5 March 2026

SOURCE

Three men deported by the US to Eswatini – rather than their home countries – have filed a case against Eswatini’s government with the African Union’s human rights body, claiming their detention was an unlawful violation of their rights.

Two of the claimants, from Cuba and Yemen, have been in prison in Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, for eight months. The third, Orville Etoria, was repatriated to his home country, Jamaica, in September.

They were among a group of five men deported by the US in July, with another 10 sent in October. Other than Etoria, all remained in prison in Eswatini, their lawyers said.

The US has labelled the men dangerous criminals but their lawyers said they have already served their sentences for any crimes committed in the US.

The men’s complaint was filed with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), an African Union body that monitors member states’ compliance with regional human rights agreements.

The commission can demand that states uphold rights and refer cases to the African court on human and peoples’ rights, but neither body has enforcement powers.

Beatrice Njeri, a lawyer with the Global Strategic Litigation Council, one of the organisations that brought the case on the deportees’ behalf, said: “The people in detention have committed no crime [in Eswatini] and continue to undergo various human rights violations … they are being held indefinitely.”

Njeri said the men had still not been allowed to see their lawyers in person. She said one detainee had gone on a 30-day hunger strike late last year, resulting in signs of organ failure.

“They’re totally frustrated with the situation,” she said. “They just want to go back – some of them home, some of them to the US.”

Thabile Mdluli, a spokesperson for Eswatini’s government, said: “The Kingdom of Eswatini reiterates its longstanding commitment to upholding human rights and its obligations under regional and international frameworks.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/05/three-men-deported-us-eswatini-legal-case-detention

See also

United States deportees take Eswatini to the African Commission for Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR) citing human rights violations (Swaziland News)

http://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=11533

DPM warns: Stop violating young boys

By Brian Mabuza, eSwatini Observer, 10 March 2026

SOURCE

Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla has revealed a growing number of cases involving the sexual violation of young boys, with minors allegedly being abused by adults.

Speaking during a press briefing at the DPM’s office boardroom yesterday, Dladla strongly condemned the acts, describing them as disgraceful and destructive to the livelihoods of the affected children.

She expressed deep concern over cases reported to her office, highlighting that children must be protected from all forms of abuse to safeguard their physical and emotional wellbeing.

According to the DPM, some of the victims were as young as nine years old. The severity of certain cases required urgent intervention from her office to provide support to affected children. Survivors had in some instances sustained serious injuries, necessitating provision of basic necessities, including diapers, due to physical trauma.

“These are extremely painful situations,” Dladla said, emphasising that the impact of abuse extends far beyond physical harm, often leaving children with deep emotional and psychological scars affecting their development and future wellbeing.

Dladla specifically warned gay adults against targeting or influencing minors. She stressed that adults’ personal lifestyles must remain among consenting adults and must never involve children.

“If people want to be gay, they should do so among themselves and with other consenting adults,” she said. Children, she noted, are innocent and vulnerable, and exposing them to abuse places them at serious risk of lifelong trauma.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/deputy-pm-dladla-stop-child-abuse/

See also

35 boys sexually abused in 2025 – SWAGAA (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/35-boys-sexually-abused-in-2025-swagaa/

Soccer legends join GBV fight

By Nompumelelo Mhlanga, Times of eSwatini, 9 March 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Former football stars have partnered with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to combat gender-based violence (GBV).

The partnership was launched on Monday, March 9, 2026, when the Deputy Prime Minister and former players unveiled a nationwide prevention campaign aimed at engaging men and boys.

The initiative, rolled out with the Umhluma Women and Youth Foundation, will use sport to spread anti-GBV messages and promote gender equality.

Deputy Prime Minister Thuli Dladla said the campaign forms part of the office’s Gender-Based Violence Action Plan adopted in 2023, which emphasises involving men and boys in prevention efforts through sport and community activities.

She said football tournaments, walks and other sporting events would be held across the country to encourage men and boys to take an active role in ending violence against women and girls.

While statistics often identify men and boys as the main perpetrators of violence, Dladla said the campaign aimed to encourage them to become agents of change and champions of gender equality.

“Involving men and boys helps challenge harmful social norms and promotes values such as respect, empathy and accountability,” she said.

Umhluma Women and Youth Foundation Executive Director Lungelo Zulu said the campaign would start with a town-to-town outreach programme, where partners and former football stars will travel around the country spreading anti-GBV messages.

The outreach will culminate in a one-day soccer tournament in May at Mavuso Sports Centre in the Manzini Region.

Teams will feature former players from traditional clubs including Manzini Wanderers, Mbabane Swallows, Mbabane Highlanders, Moneni Pirates and Denver Sundowns.

Zulu said the tournament would rotate between regions annually to sustain the campaign.

He added that public transport operators had also joined the initiative to amplify the message. Women Unlimited will supply bibs carrying anti-GBV messages for operators to wear throughout the campaign.

Several organisations pledged support during the launch. Instacash will provide jerseys for the legends, while other partners include Ant Construction, Orchard Insurance, Cardo Square, SOS Children’s Villages, Viva Water, the Stukie Motsa Foundation and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Zulu said although civil society groups had called for GBV to be declared a national disaster, campaigns like this were vital in sustaining prevention efforts.

Representatives of the football legends and partner organisations also stressed the importance of involving men in conversations about violence, noting that football was a powerful platform to bring men together.

Dladla welcomed the initiative, saying former players would serve as role models for young boys, particularly those growing up in communities where violence may be normalised.

She also praised the inclusion of transport operators, saying the campaign would help remind men of their responsibilities within families and communities.

Former football stars have partnered with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to combat gender-based violence (GBV)

Govt calls for greater opportunities for women

By Adekunle Owolabi, Independent News eSwatini, 12 March 2026

SOURCE

MATSAPHA: Women leaders from across Eswatini gathered at Esibayeni Lodge on Wednesday for the Eswatini Women’s Dialogue 2026, where government and development partners discussed advancing women’s leadership, economic empowerment and justice.

The engagement formed part of activities marking International Women’s Day and brought together representatives from different sectors to examine ways of promoting the rights of women and girls in the country.

Acting Deputy Prime Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane addressed the gathering and spoke about the role women continue to play in the country’s social and economic development.

She said empowering women contributes directly to stronger families, resilient communities and national progress.

“When women are given opportunities to lead, learn, and participate fully in the economy, the entire country benefits. I would like to reaffirm government’s commitment to promoting gender equality, expanding opportunities for women, and ensuring their voices and leadership continue to shape a more inclusive and prosperous country,” the ADPM said.

Participants also discussed collaboration between men and women as a key element in advancing gender equality.

Colani Nhleko, Country Coordinator for SAFAIDS, told delegates that partnerships between men and women remain necessary in strengthening women’s leadership in society.

He noted that “men need to hold hands with women as accelerating women’s leadership is both timely and urgent.”

The European Union also took part in the dialogue. Jose Becerra Marta spoke about the role women play in sustaining households and communities.

“Investing in women is imperative to build inclusive societies. Women play an important role in supporting households and communities to achieve food security, generate income and improve livelihoods,” he said.

See also

Let’s allow women to wear pants in parly – MP (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/mp-calls-women-pants-parliament-eswatini/

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 917 – 6 March 2026

2026-03-06T04:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 917 – 6 March 2026

Neal tables E36.92bn budget that marks historic increase

By Musa Simelane and Melisa Msweli. eSwatini Observer, 28 February 2026

SOURCE

In a landmark address to Parliament, Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg unveiled a record-breaking national budget of E36.92 billion for the 2026/27 financial year — describing it as the most significant fiscal expansion in the country’s history.

The allocation marks a staggering E4.3 billion increase from the E32.6 billion approved in the previous year.

Anchored in the theme of agape love — defined by the minister as “love in action” — the budget seeks to transform the economy through sacrificial service and disciplined investment.

The primary engine behind this historic rise is the long-awaited public service salary review.

By implementing Scenario 3 of the review, government has significantly increased recurrent expenditure to accommodate phased salary adjustments and back pay for civil servants.

According to Rijkenberg, the move is designed to:

Boost morale

Restore purchasing power

Strengthen the workforce described as the backbone of service delivery

However, this commitment comes amid mounting fiscal pressures. Interest payments on public debt have climbed to approximately E800 million.

While the minister assured the nation that debt levels remain sustainable, he acknowledged the strain such obligations place on the national fiscus.

Education once again secures the largest allocation, rising to E6.40 billion.

The funding will support:

A four-year secondary school pilot programme

The rollout of Competency-Based Education

The health sector follows with a robust E3.24 billion, with a significant focus on restructuring the Central Medical Stores.

The transformation into a stand-alone entity is aimed at addressing persistent drug shortages raised in the 2025 budget speech — ensuring pharmaceutical funds translate into medicines reaching patients.

Job creation remains central to the fiscal strategy, particularly through completion of flagship infrastructure projects.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/neal-tables-e36-92bn-budget-that-marks-historic-increase/

Increase elderly grants, make secondary education free

by Ntombi Mhlongo, Times of eSwatini, 5 March 2026

SOURCE

LOBAMBA: Show ‘agape love’ to the elderly!

This is a statement which was repeated countless times during the Budget Speech Debate which took place at the House of Assembly yesterday.

The statement was directed to the Minister for Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, and it was a request for him to go back and include an increase of elderly grants in the national budget.

The minister presented the 2026 Budget Speech last Friday and yesterday, the House of Assembly got the opportunity to debate it.

It appears that most of the MPs had come with one intention – to make him aware that for them to support him and pass the budget; he must make a commitment that he will increase the elderly grants.

First to speak on the issue was Phondo MP Bonginkosi Dube, who said while he was grateful for the Budget Speech as it addressed challenges faced by emaSwati, he was disappointed that it did not in any way touch on the issue of elderly grants.

Dube said at his constituency, the elderly are struggling on a daily basis.

“On behalf of the people of Phondo, I am here to request that the minister for Finance meet with the Finance Committee and decide where they can do some reallocations in order to find money for the elderly grants.

“The cost of living has become high and when the elderly grants are low, it puts a lot of pressure on the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister,” Dube said.

Also speaking on elderly grants was Mtfongwaneni MP Nathi Hlophe, who said he had hoped that following the implementation of the salary review for civil servants, the grants for the elderly and persons with disabilities would be looked into.

Nkilongo MP Petros Sibandze said he wanted to propose that MPs do not pass the budget until elderly grants are increased.

“The elderly are vulnerable and they are suffering because they are expected to take care of their grandchildren. When you look at the budget, you can see that there has been an increase in the budget for travel. I propose that the increase for travel be reallocated to the elderly grants,” Sibandze said.

Lobamba MP Michael Masilela said he had not come to oppose the passing of the budget but to simply request that the elderly grants be increased.

Meanwhile, Hhukwini MP Alec Lushaba submitted that the Budget Speech was clear that the minister for Finance had clearly understood the directive by the King, in particular the emphasis on spreading agape love.

On another note, Lobamba Lomdzala MP Marwick Khumalo, who doubles as the Finance Committee Chairperson, congratulated the minister on the budget but said he, himself was concerned about the non-allocation for the elderly grants.

eSwatini Parliament

See also

National budget: Neal unveils over 200 000 jobs (eSwatini News)

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=National+budget%3A+Neal+unveils+over+200+000+jobs+&yiphi=3065&bvhdgsj=News

King Mswati’s R100million forty (40) years on the Throne budget included in National Budget but disguised as monies allocated to complete International Convention Centre (ICC) (Swaziland News)

http://swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=11489

CANGO Director Thembinkhosi Dlamini says eSwatini organizations promoting LGBTQ retrenching workers after United States (US) said no American money will fund Gays and Lesbians under his administration

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 3 March 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Thembinkhosi Dlamini, the Executive Director of the Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organizations (CANGO) says more Eswatini civil society organizations promoting LGBTQ+ are retrenching workers and might close after United States (US) President Donald Trump said, “no American money will fund” Gays and Lesbians under his administration.

LGBTQ+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer/Questioning individuals, representing diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, the "+" sign acknowledges additional identities like intersex, asexual, pansexual, and others.

Speaking to this Swaziland News on Monday evening, the CANGO Executive Director said civil society organizations have been facing financial challenges adding that, “the situation is getting worse as more organizations are retrenching” workers.

“It’s a very difficult time for the civil society under the Donald Trump administration, even the R4billion donated by the US in support of health programs, we are told Eswatini was warned against using it on any program supporting Gays and Lesbians,” said the CANGO Director.

On another note, the CANGO Executive Director said, his Office recently received letters about organizations retrenching workers, the organizations were promoting the rights of LGBTQ+.

Shortly after being re-elected, United States President Donald Trump stated that, promoting LGBTQ+ will not form part of his policies, he went on to withdraw funding for a number of world organizations grounding hundreds of civil society organizations around the world.

Over 4 000 surge in OVC grant beneficiaries

By Nokuphila Haji, eSwatini Observer, 4 March 2026

SOURCE

The number of pupils whose school fees are paid for by the office of the deputy prime minister under the Orphaned and Vulnerable Children (OVC) grant has increased by 4 761 in the 2025/2026 financial year.

According to the report of the deputy prime minister’s office for the 2025/2026 financial year, tabled by Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla in Parliament on Monday, the education grant remained one of the most valuable interventions, supporting a total of 67 438 orphaned and vulnerable children nationwide, with equitable coverage across all four regions.

This comes at a time when legislators once raised concerns that there were children placed under the OVC grants who were not supposed to benefit. The office had previously indicated that it would vet learners applying for the fund going forward.

Dladla stated that compared to the previous financial year, beneficiary numbers increased by 4 761, representing a 7.06 per cent rise. The number of learners sitting for external examinations who are beneficiaries of the grant increased by 12.06 per cent, reflecting both growing demand and expanded coverage.

Under the OVC grant, Dladla said the department of social welfare continued to offer financial support to 67 438 orphaned and vulnerable children.

Regionally, Hhohho recorded 16 258 beneficiaries, while Manzini had 17 544. Lubombo had 16 850 beneficiaries and Shiselweni recorded 16 786.

She added that E91 178 558 was paid as balance to 287 secondary and high schools across the country.

Dladla further noted that the office also takes care of pupils in completing classes. A total of 23 765 beneficiaries under the OVC grant had their examination fees fully paid in Form III and Form V.

This financial year, E48 248 890 was paid to the Examinations Council of Eswatini for OVC learners writing external examinations.

On the other hand, Dladla stated that elderly grant beneficiaries under her department stood at 90 073, with each beneficiary receiving E600 per month. The office paid E487 083 477 for elderly grants in the last financial year.

She explained that the payment mode for the elderly grant was through Mobile Money (MoMo) at a charge of E9 per beneficiary, while commercial banks charged E25 per beneficiary.

However, following negotiations with commercial banks, all had agreed to reduce the E25 charge to E9. The change will take effect in the 2026/2027 financial year.

Currently, there are 18 563 beneficiaries under the disability grant. During the reporting period, the office increased disability grant beneficiaries by 1 589 effective from April 2025.

A total of E71 403 417 was paid under the disability grants last year.

King Mswati to use private jet in repatriating his children and other royal family members residing in the Middle East amid Israel-Iran conflict

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 4 March 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: King Mswati’s private jet will transport his children and other royal family members locked in the Middle East Israel-United States and Iran conflict, back to Eswatini.

But about thirty (30) ordinary emaSwati based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other surrounding countries had agreed to come back but later decided to stay and risk fearing the poverty situation in Eswatini, only one citizen had agreed to come back at the time of compiling this report.

The repatriation is being organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Eswatini citizens including royal family members, are expected to arrive in Eswatini this week.

“We have been informed that, the private jet will arrive this week, at first we didn’t believe it until we receive official confirmation from a Government official,” said one of the citizens based in the Middle East.

Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli declined to comment about the repatriation of the Eswatini citizens.

Israel backed by the United States, is currently exchanging ‘fire’ with Iran, dozens have died since the conflict erupted last week.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 916 – 27 February 2026

2026-02-27T05:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 916 – 27 February 2026

Speech from the throne: MPs warn cabinet – no excuses

By Nokuphila Haji, eSwatini Observer, 23 February 2026

SOURCE

Some Members of the Legislature have vowed to hold government accountable, insisting that the Nkwe spirit must apply in resolving issues raised by His Majesty King Mswati III during the 2026 Speech from the Throne.

The legislators were reacting after the King officially opened the Third Session of the 12th Parliament on Friday. They said they were alert during the address and, as elected representatives of the people, their mandate was to hold Cabinet accountable — with no excuses entertained.

According to Section 69 of the Constitution of Eswatini (2005), Cabinet is collectively responsible to Parliament for advice given to the King and for all actions undertaken by ministers in the execution of their duties.

House of Assembly Speaker Jabulani Mabuza said legislators represented the nation and were elected to raise issues on behalf of citizens in Parliament.

He said Parliament had been tasked with safeguarding the welfare of the nation and would hold the Executive accountable, particularly during the budget process.

“As Parliament, we want to assure the nation that we will work with them in making sure their welfare is taken care of. We will have robust debates and ensure that the budget reflects what the King directed in the Speech from the Throne,” he said.

Mbabane East MP Welcome Dlamini said the King’s firm directive on healthcare struck a chord with legislators.

He noted that His Majesty had insisted that drug shortages in public facilities must end immediately and that patients should not suffer due to unavailable medication.

“As MPs, we fully support this and will hold government accountable to sort out supply chains, improve budgeting and ensure every clinic and hospital is stocked. A healthy population is the foundation of productivity,” he said.

Manzini North MP Sifiso Nhlengetfwa said MPs would hold Cabinet accountable regardless of personal relationships.

“The King was disappointed that funds released to address issues such as foot-and-mouth disease have not yielded results. We represent the nation and must ensure accountability,” he said.

He also referenced concerns over incomplete road projects, including a 500-kilometre construction programme where funds were reportedly diverted.

“There are allocations we will oppose if we do not understand their purpose. We cannot allow poor service delivery while the nation blames MPs,” he said.

Deputy Speaker Madala Mhlanga described the address as decisive.

“The Lion has roared,” he said, adding that the speech provided clear direction to both Parliament and the Executive.

He said the King expected immediate solutions to drug shortages and had outlined targets for the next 40 years aimed at improving livelihoods.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/speech-from-the-throne-mps-warn-cabinet-no-excuses/

King tired of saying nothing from the throne

Opinion by Wandile Dludlu, Swaziland News, 21 February 2026

SOURCE

When nothing is what you are left to say, you end up saying nothing at all, that’s exactly how best we can sum-up the King's Speech from the Throne when opening the Parliament marking the official opening of business for all Government departments and programs.

What stands out is that, the King’s body language speaks louder than his mouth, the man is tired, loosing hope for ceremonies like this himself, his own heart beats hard against his ribs each time he opens one more page, trying to read out what a gang of criminals in the bureaucratic enclave of Government must do in the year ahead

The King knows that, electricity will be increased to the detriment of more people already drowning, but what can he do? The King knows emaSwati not only have been having terribly under supplies of medical in all public healthcare facilities for the past fifteen (15) years straight, but even the year ahead nothing will change, but what can he do really?

The King knows emaSwati are having their head of livestock ravaged by Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) across the country but, Government has no plan beyond donations from regional multilateral institutions and donor aid mitigating programs as well as private sector.

The King knows that he can’t stop corruption, because to do so would mean his Throne must collapse immediately, as everyone around him survives through looting State resources, for to attempt to stop that would be reminiscent of burning the grass upon which fodder to feed the thousands of wild horses that depend on.

The King knows too well that, strategic business assets have been sold to not just private hands but foreigners, for those folks make good business partners in the game of thrones for looting. They have proven far lethal and merciless for they know that everything is sellable and buyable in Eswatini after all.

The King delivered absolutely nothing from the Throne, what would you expect him to say honesty, Swazis in his forty (40) years of rule have grown far more poorer and destitute, remember real development is not roads, dams nor convention centers but the quality of life for ordinary people.

It’s quality opportunities for ordinary people to earn a living, its creation of quality jobs not far from where people live.

EmaSwati can't lived through the Kubutseka stipend once after tribute labour in the King\'s fields, we refuse Your Majesty to live our beloved kids to such a degrading and inhumane social arrangement.

We believe, it’s how best do we attach human value to the life a reasonable liSwati lives in any place in the country. That is our lived reality not reports decorated in English language with velvet adjectives.

When nothing becomes the iota of nothing, then everything turns into nothing, expect nothing then for nothing is everything you are left with, that’s what yesterday from the Throne we got as nothing. Khutani liBayethe siseKhenane yelite lelite.

Business eSwatini weighs in on latest US tariff shift

By Nhlanganiso Mkhonta, Times of eSwatini, 24 February 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Business Eswatini (BE) has sounded caution after fresh United States tariff moves, warning that local exporters face uncertainty amid shifting global trade rules.

Business Eswatini has raised concern over renewed uncertainty in global trade after Donald Trump doubled down on his aggressive tariff policy, hiking a blanket duty on imports into the United States to 15 per cent, just a day after the US Supreme Court ruled much of his tariff programme unlawful.

The latest move by the US president has sent fresh shockwaves through global markets and trade partners, with Business Eswatini warning that the developing trade war could have direct and indirect consequences for Eswatini’s export sector - particularly sugar and other products destined for the American market.

Trump announced the new global tariff on Saturday via his Truth Social platform, describing a Supreme Court ruling that sought to rein in his authority as an ‘extraordinarily anti-American decision’. He said the administration was hiking import levies ‘to the fully allowed and legally tested, 15 per cent level’ after reviewing the court judgment.

This came shortly after the Supreme Court, in a 6–3 ruling, rejected Trump’s authority to impose sweeping global tariffs under a 1977 economic emergency powers act. The ruling dealt a major blow to one of Trump’s signature economic policies, which has reshaped the global trade environment since his return to the White House 13 months ago. However, Trump quickly sought an alternative legal route, initially announcing a new 10 per cent global levy before escalating it to 15 per cent, a move expected to fuel further uncertainty for exporters and importers alike.

Reacting to the developments, Business Eswatini CEO Nathi Dlamini said while the Supreme Court ruling offered a measure of hope for affected trading partners, the situation remained fluid and unpredictable.

“Today it was reported that in a 170-page, 6–3 ruling, the US Supreme Court struck down the so-called Liberation Day global tariffs introduced by the Trump administration in 2025. Since their implementation, it is estimated that the US government has collected about US$150 billion, which, according to some reports, may have to be refunded to affected parties,” Dlamini said.

He noted that although Eswatini enjoys a favourable trading arrangement with the United States, local exporters remain subject to the baseline 10 per cent tariff that applies to all countries - a levy Business Eswatini hopes could be reversed if the Supreme Court ruling is fully implemented.

World Bank ranks eSwatini as the 10th best country in Africa for business readiness

By Bongiwe Dlamini, Swaziland News, 23 February 2026

SOURCE

LOBAMBA: King Mswati has applauded Government for marketing the country globally as an investment destination, resulting to the World Bank ranking Eswatini as the tenth (10th) best country in Africa for business readiness.

The country’s positive rankings in the current World Bank report comes after vigorous efforts by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade through the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), the Registrar of Companies and other relevant State institutions, to improve the ease of doing business.

King Mswati when delivering the Speech from the Throne in Parliament on Friday, urged Government to do more in marketing the Kingdom as an investment destination of choice.

“This is a reflection of the growing investor confidence and our ongoing reforms, such as the establishment of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS). The country must leverage this achievement and intensify efforts to market the Kingdom as an investment destination of choice. We must highlight our stability, strategic location, digital infrastructure, and commitment to economic diversification,” said the King.

All eyes on Friday’s national budget

By Mbongeni Ndlela, eSwatini Positive News, 25 February 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: As Eswatini prepares for the 2026/27 National Budget Speech scheduled for Friday, 27 February 2026, attention is once again turning to the country’s fiscal direction and the development momentum built over the past year.

Last year, Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg delivered a E32.6 billion national budget that strongly prioritised human capital development, infrastructure expansion and social protection. As the nation awaits his next address, the key question is not only how much will be allocated — but how effectively previous investments are translating into tangible outcomes for emaSwati.

In the 2025/26 financial year, education received the largest share of the national budget at E5.41 billion. The allocation supported teacher employment, scholarship funding, infrastructure expansion and the continued rollout of A-Level streams. As the new budget approaches, analysts will be watching whether government deepens investment in early childhood education, STEM subjects and technical training to better align with labour market demands. With youth unemployment remaining a pressing concern, strategic funding in skills development could be a defining theme in Friday’s address.

The Ministry of Health received E3.1 billion in the 2025/26 budget, aimed at improving referral systems, upgrading facilities and strengthening pharmaceutical supply chains. The upcoming speech is expected to reflect on service delivery improvements, including medicine availability and infrastructure upgrades. Sustained domestic investment will be crucial to maintaining stability and resilience in the health sector.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 915 – 20 February 2026

2026-02-20T12:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 915 – 20 February 2026

Textile sector on brink as costs surge, orders shrink

By Stanley Khumalo, Times of eSwatini, 16 February 2026

SOURCE

MATSAPHA: The textile and apparel industry is warning of imminent retrenchments as operating costs spiral beyond sustainability.

This sector employs more than 22 000 emaSwati and contributes about 7.6 per cent to gross domestic product (GDP).

Factory owners claim a convergence of pressures, a 15 per cent value-added tax (VAT) on water introduced on February 1, 2026, steep electricity tariff increases effective April 1 and a proposed 66.67 per cent salary increment over three years, have pushed the sector to the edge.

On Tuesday, the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA) approved an average electricity tariff increase of 13.61 per cent for 2026/27. While this is lower than the 20.67 per cent sought by the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC), the structure of the hike has rattled manufacturers.

Corporate energy charges and demand charges will each rise by 17 per cent. For textile factories, where electricity accounts for roughly 40 per cent of total expenditure, the textile industry players say the increase strikes at the core of production costs.

The employers argue that the VAT on water further compounds their burden. They claim VAT refunds are only claimable if a business accrues over E900 000 in profits, a threshold many say is now unattainable amid declining orders.

“The cost of doing business is no longer predictable. We are absorbing costs from utilities, rentals, transport and raw materials, yet our selling prices are dictated by buyers outside our borders,” said one industry insider.

South Africa remains the primary market for Eswatini’s garments. However, textile firms report declining orders from major retailers such as TFG Group and Woolworths.

While South Africa’s October retail data showed a 5.8 per cent year-on-year increase in textiles, clothing and footwear sales, industry sources say this growth is largely promotion-driven, with retailers discounting heavily. That, in turn, pushes them to procure at the lowest possible cost.

It is worth noting that South Africa lost 194 000 jobs in retail and trade in 2025, the highest among all industries, based on Statistics South Africa’s report, reflecting constrained consumer spending.

The textile employers said when retailers struggle, they inevitably feel the shock.

Local manufacturers said the impact is visible. Drake Clothing closed last year, leaving about 350 workers jobless. Golden Jubilee Textiles ceased operations, affecting roughly 650 employees, though it has pledged to reopen. In 2023, Kasumi Apparels Textiles closed, costing 1 782 jobs before eventually resuming operations.

Against this backdrop, the Amalgamated Trade Union of Swaziland (ATUSWA) has tabled a wage proposal. Secretary General Wander Mkhonza confirmed the union would push for a three-year increment that would raise average monthly wages from E2 400 to about E3 900.

The union is also seeking cost-of-living adjustments (CoLA), pension coverage and funeral benefits. While acknowledging improvements by some firms that raised hourly rates from E15 to E18, Mkhonza insists workers deserve dignity and security.

Prime Minister facing about R100million fresh scandal

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 15 February 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini will soon face grilling by Parliament after secretly transferring about R100million ($5.1million) to the corruption infested National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) without Parliament and/or Cabinet approval.

It has been disclosed that, the monies were paid by the Government of the United States (US) as a token of appreciation after Eswatini accepted the dumping of dangerous criminals and/or immigrants from the US, previously convicted by their respective countries of murder and child rape among other serious criminal crimes.

But a high level investigation conducted by this Swaziland News uncovered that, after the United States paid about R100million as confirmed by Finance Minister Neal Rijikernberg when addressing Parliament recently, the PM subsequently directed that, the money be transferred to the NDMA, a department under the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office where he previously worked as a Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

But worth-noting, Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, while working as the CEO of the Disaster Management Agency allegedly failed to account for about R200million as per the report of the Auditor General (AG) Timothy Matsebula, he was subsequently hauled before the Parliament Public Accounts Committee (PAC) but again, failed to clarify the audit queries.

It has been dislcosed that, the PM recently summoned all Principal Secretaries of the various Government Ministries and urged them to work directly and/or take orders from him not their respective Ministers in what appears to be a serious threat by a sitting Prime Minister to the proper administration of the entire Eswatini Government systems.

As a result, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Finance Vusie Dlamini allegedly colluded with the Prime Minister in the illegal transfer of the about R100million and it is alleged that, after being captured by the PM and urged to disrespect the Finance Minister, the Principal Secretary vigorously opposed Minister Neal Rijikernberg during a recent meeting inside the Cabinet Offices.

To read more of this report, click here

http://swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=11353

SNAT to defend 39 top-up headteachers

By Nokuphila Haji, eSwatini Observer, 16 February 2026

SOURCE

After 39 headteachers were charged by the ministry of education and training for charging top-up fees, the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) has resolved to defend them through the Swaziland Association of School Administrators (SASA).

These are headteachers who are members of SNAT.

The Shiselweni region had 18 schools found to be unlawfully charging top-up fees.

There were 10 schools from the Manzini region, seven from Lubombo and four from Hhohho region.

These headteachers met with the SNAT National Executive at the SNAT Centre following the charges laid against them by the ministry for allegedly collecting top-up fees illegally.

SNAT Secretary General Lot Vilakati said the headteachers indicated during the meeting that government grants under the Free Primary Education (FPE) programme and the Orphaned and Vulnerable Children (OVC) scheme were insufficient.

He said teachers were also concerned that the funds paid by government to schools were inadequate, adding that the union supported an increase in FPE funding. He said government needed to increase FPE grants, which was why some headteachers had asked parents to contribute additional fees.

“As SNAT, we say government should be the one paying the topup fees.

The headteachers are not at fault; government is at fault because it is not fully funding pupils’ education in the country, which has forced schools to request top-up fees,” he said.

Vilakati added that the amount government was paying was below what had been recommended by the task team responsible for drafting the free primary education implementation framework.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/snat-to-defend-39-top-up-headteachers/

See also

Head teachers resolve to close schools if... (Times of eSwatini)

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Head+teachers+resolve+to+close+schools+if...&yiphi=2959&bvhdgsj=News

EU provides technical support to eSwatini’s education sector

Statement, Press and information team of the Delegation to eSwatini, 17 February 2026

SOURCE

In a Team Europe effort, the European Union (EU) together with three EU Member States – Belgium, Finland and France, has partnered with the Ministry of Education and Training to launch the EU-Regional Teachers Initiative for Africa (RITA) Eswatini, an initiative that seeks to avail European expertise to support Eswatini’s transition to Competency-Based Education (CBE) with a strong focus on strengthening teacher training and professional development in the country’s schools.

© EU Eswatini

This partnership, however, does not involve a direct financial donation to the country, but rather the provision of high-level technical expertise to support ongoing education reforms. This technical assistance will focus on five key areas – building capacity for Competency-Based Education; reviewing teacher training curricula to align with CBE and global standards; operationalising the Council of Educators Act; developing CBE syllabi for Grade 8 – 11 learners and establishing a national framework for in-service teacher training.

Speaking during this event held in Mbabane on 13 February 2026, EU Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg, expressed gratitude to the three EU Member States - Finland, France and Belgium, for their support to this initiative.

“Education is more than a policy priority; it is a promise to the next generation. A promise that every child, every teacher and every citizen will have an opportunity to learn, to grow and contribute meaningfully to society,” said Ambassador Mecklenburg.

On the other hand, Finnish Ambassador to Eswatini, Satu Lassila, thanked the partnership noting that “it would help in the drive for a knowledge driven future for all.”

In the meantime, the Minister of Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo, expressed gratitude to the EU and its Member States for their commitment to advance education in Eswatini noting that this was a testament to partnership and shared values.

The initiative was launched under the theme: “Empowering Teachers for Eswatini’s Future.” The event was attended by development partners and education stakeholders.

Warders claim EFF eSwatini member refuses to bath

By Kwanele Dlamini, eSwatini News, 14 February 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Economic Freedom Fighters Eswatini member Siphosethu Malinga, who was arrested for alleged terrorism in March 2023, claims warders assaulted him for not combing his hair.

On the other hand, His Majesty’s Correctional Services says Malinga does not want to bath yet the facility puts a premium on hygiene.

Malinga was arrested with Swaziland Liberation Movement’s (SWALIMO) son Zweli Simelane and SWALIMO member Mxolisi Simelane. They face three counts of allegedly contravening the Suppression of Terrorism Act, 2008, two of robbery and one of contravening the Passport Act of 1971.

Through his legal representatives, Professor M. Dlamini Attorneys, Malinga wrote to His Majesty’s Correctional Services commissioner general to lodge a complaint. The letter is dated February 5, 2026.

The letter reads: “Our client instructs us that he was severely assaulted by prison officers for not having combed his hair. Since then, the client has been trying to raise the issue with the officer-in-charge at Sidwashini Correctional Services.

“It is common course that it is not the first time that the complainant and other Suppression of Terrorism Act detainees/suspects have complained of similar treatment at the hands of the prison authorities in the past and no action has been taken.”

The letter states that all detainees, including the Suppression of Terrorism Act offences detainees have rights which need to be protected by all citizens of the country, including Correctional officers.

It also states that detainees, including Malinga, are presumed innocent until proven guilty or acquitted in a court of law.

“To compel the detainee to comb his hair when his conscience is against that, is a violation of his basic fundamental rights protected by the Constitution. By this letter, therefore, we demand that you duly investigate this abnormal behaviour by your officers and if the complaints are proved to be true, the officers involved should be subjected to disciplinary action,” further reads the letter.

The letter further urges the Correctional Services to desist from acts of violating the rights of the detainees in any manner whatsoever.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Warders+claim+EFF+Eswatini+member+refuses+to+bath&yiphi=2899&bvhdgsj=News

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 914 – 13 February 2026

2026-02-13T08:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 914 – 13 February 2026

War of words after eSwatini king hosts ex-Madagascar leader

By AFP, 9 February 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Eswatini hit back on Monday at a furious response from Madagascar to King Mswati III’s hosting of deposed president Andry Rajoelina on an official visit, calling it a “misguided” attack.

The Times of Eswatini carried pictures of the king shaking hands with Rajoelina on Friday in a report that cited the monarch as saying the former leader’s ouster in October was “unconstitutional”.

It appeared to be the first time that Rajoelina was photographed at an official event since he fled the Indian Ocean island after a military unit broke ranks and sided with a weeks-long protest movement in which several people were killed.

The Times of Eswatini reported that the king had consulted with the SADC regional bloc before the meeting and afterwards “called upon all law enforcement agencies in Madagascar to restore constitutional normalcy immediately”.

In response, Madagascar’s interim authority led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina voiced its “strongest condemnation” of the official meeting.

“This situation is of particular gravity in so far as the individual concerned was serving as Head of State during the tragic events of September and October 2025, which claimed the lives of approximately 30 Malagasy citizens,” it said in a statement on social media.

The king’s office responded that Rajoelina had sought “intervention” from Mswati in his capacity as deputy chairman of the Southern African Development Community ( SADC ) politics and defence cooperation body.

He had not been seeking “protection or intervention” from the kingdom, said director of communication Percy Simelane.

The SADC politics organ is calling for constitutional reform in Madagascar and “not a survival of the fittest state of affairs” in which an army unit is in control, he said.

“The attack on the people of Eswatini is therefore misguided and unfortunate,” he added.
The SADC in December directed the Madagascar authorities to submit by February 28 their roadmap towards a restoration of democracy, including fresh elections.

Randrianirina has pledged to call new elections within two years of the revolt.

Rajoelina fled to a secret location with the help of French forces after Randrianirina’s CAPSAT army unit announced its support for protesters on October 14.

He was impeached by parliament, leading CAPSAT to declare it had taken power.

King Mswati III (R) with the President of the Republic of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina. (Picture from Times of eSwatini)

See also

King demands restoration of constitutional order in Madagascar (Times of eSwatini)

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=King+demands+restoration+of+constitutional+order+in+Madagascar&yiphi=2819&bvhdgsj=News

eSwatini: Student activist jailed under terrorism law: Menzi Bongeka Bhembe

Amnesty International call for urgent action, 9 February 2026

SOURCE

Menzi Bongeka Bhembe, a 26-year-old university student and activist, was arrested on 16 January 2024 and charged under Eswatini’s 2008 Suppression of Terrorism Act. He has been held in arbitrary detention for over two years in violation of due process guarantees, in what appears to be a politically motivated attempt to suppress student activism. Eswatini authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Menzi Bongeka Bhembe and drop all charges against him as he is detained solely for the peaceful exercise of his human rights.

eSwatini ranks among Africa’s most obese nations

By Sabelo Majola, Times of eSwatini, 10 February 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Eswatini’s position among the top African countries with the highest percentage of adults classified as obese has drawn renewed attention to a growing, but often under-discussed public-health challenge.

Obesity is a chronic, complex disease characterised by excessive body fat accumulation resulting from caloric intake exceeding energy expenditure.

With an estimated 15.62 per cent of adults living with obesity (BMI ≥30), the country ranks fourth on the continent, behind only Egypt, Libya and Algeria. While the ranking may appear surprising at first glance, health experts say it reflects broader structural changes affecting many Southern African countries.

According to the report, obesity in Eswatini is not simply the result of individual lifestyle choices, but it is the outcome of a complex mix of economic, social and demographic transitions that have reshaped how people eat, work and live over the past three decades.

One of the most significant drivers is what has been referred to as the ‘nutrition transition’.

As countries modernise and urbanise, diets typically shift away from traditional foods such as whole grains, legumes and locally produced vegetables towards highly processed, energy-dense foods rich in fats, sugar and salt. These foods are often cheaper, more accessible and aggressively marketed, particularly in urban areas. In Eswatini, rapid retail expansion, growing fast-food availability and cross-border food supply chains, especially from neighbouring South Africa, have accelerated this dietary transformation.

Combined with declining levels of physical activity, this shift has created an environment where weight gain becomes increasingly common across all income groups.

Urbanisation has also played a major role. As more citizens move into towns and cities or take up employment in service-sector and office-based jobs, daily physical exertion declines sharply compared to traditional agricultural or manual labour occupations.

It was also revealed that increased reliance on motorised transport, longer commuting times and more screen-based lifestyles further reduce physical activity.

Taiwan President William Lai Ching-te to attend King Mswati’s forty (40) years on the Throne and Birthday double celebration, to spend over R50million public funds

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 9 February 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: William Lai Ching-te, the Taiwan President, is highly expected to visit Eswatini for the upcoming King Mswati’s forty (40) years on the Throne and fifty eighth (58th) Birthday double celebration.

King Mswati will turn 58 years on the 19th April 2026 but the date for the celebration is yet to be confirmed by the King through Home Affairs Minister Princess Lindiwe.

It has been disclosed that, the event will cost over R50million public funds and on Monday this week, a logo for the double celebration was unveiled by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Efforts to reach King’s Spokesperson Percy Simelane proved unsuccessful at the time of compiling this report.

But Wandile Dludlu, the Deputy President of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) said, Taiwan will be documented as part of those who joined King Mswati in the stealing of public funds for the hosting of such extravagant events.

“We are clear about Mswati but we will keep a strict record of all those who are joining him in the stealing of the future of our children as emaSwati,” said the PUDEMO Deputy President.

See also

King Mswati’s Spokesperson defends Monarch’s alleged upcoming extravagant forty (40) years on the Throne celebration, says event to reflect on development while identifying areas for improvement (Swaziland News)

http://swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=11312

Three months later: e25m emergency medical tender delivers nothing

By Sibusiso Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 8 February 2026

SOURCE

Over three months after government approved a single‑source E25 million emergency tender to prevent shortages of critical medical supplies over the festive period, not a single item has been delivered into the public health system.

Sources at Central Medical Stores (CMS) confirmed yesterday that, as of this week, none of the suppliers linked to the emergency contract have successfully delivered approved stock.

The confirmation means the tender, justified in November as a life‑saving intervention to cushion hospitals during manufacturers’ shutdowns, had failed entirely in its stated objective.

The revelation deepens questions around the use of emergency procurement in the health sector and places renewed scrutiny on the ministry of health’s decision to bypass competitive processes in favour of a single supplier, Pride Oasis (Pty) Ltd.

According to CMS officials familiar with stock receipting and inspection procedures, no consignments linked to the E25 million emergency tender have passed verification or been accepted into inventory since the contract was approved by the Government Tender Board on November 5, 2025.

The emergency tender was authorised at the height of concerns that public hospitals would face shortages of essential theatre consumables during the festive season, a period when many international manufacturers close and supply chains slow.

At the time, the ministry of health argued that delays associated with competitive procurement would expose patients to unacceptable risk, necessitating immediate action.

Principal Secretary Khanya Mabuzasa described the tender as a life‑saving measure, stating that the nature of theatre supplies required certainty of availability and speed.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/three-months-later-e25m-emergency-medical-tender-delivers-nothing/

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 913 – 6 February 2026

2026-02-06T03:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 913 – 6 February 2026

150 rape cases stalled amid magistrate shortage

By Bongumusa Simelane, eSwatini Observer, 2 February 2026

SOURCE

Over 150 rape cases have been stalled at the Pigg’s Peak Magistrates Court following the non-appointment of a principal magistrate.

This has seen a delay in survivors getting justice. Most of these cases were committed last year up until now.

When including those of previous years, the number is possibly higher given the fact that a few years ago there was a directive that all rape cases be presided over at the High Court, until recently when another order was made by the Chief Justice to take back all the rape cases to Magistrates Courts.

The northern Hhohho Region recorded relatively higher rape cases. From January last year until January this year, over 150 cases of rape were reported to the police. Pigg’s Peak police alone attended to over 100 cases, followed by Buhleni and Mliba police posts.

This has seen all these cases being postponed without a trial date set, as that could only be done when there is a principal magistrate who can preside over such matters.

It should be noted that Pigg’s Peak Principal Magistrate Siphosini Dlamini retired at the end of February last year.

Since then, all rape cases and armed robbery cases have not been tried or do not have a trial date.

Pigg’s Peak has only one magistrate, Nkosingiphile Maseko, who is junior to preside over such cases. In addition, Senior Magistrate Sindisile Zwane is provisionally available only on Wednesdays in Pigg’s Peak.

She also cannot preside over rape cases.

Some survivors who spoke to this publication said they had lost hope with the way things are going.

“We are losing confidence in the justice system.”

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/150-rape-cases-stalled-amid-magistrate-shortage/

Rights group raises concerns over eSwatini Education Minister’s comments on LGBTI students

Aaryaa Shinge, Jurist News, 2 February 2026

SOURCE

Amnesty International has warned that recent remarks by Eswatini’s education minister opposing LGBTI inclusion in schools risk encouraging discrimination and abuse against students belonging to the community. Amnesty said the statements could legitimize stigma within educational institutions and undermine the country’s obligations to protect students from discrimination and violence.

The minister publicly rejected calls to recognize or protect LGBTI students in schools, asserting that such recognition would conflict with Eswatini’s cultural values. Same-sex sexual conduct between men remains criminalized in Eswatini under colonial-era laws, punishable by imprisonment. Legal advocacy groups have documented that these laws contribute to a climate of fear and social exclusion for LGBTI people, especially for young people in schools, by reinforcing negative stereotypes and discouraging victims from reporting abuse.

Eswatini has legal and constitutional commitments to ensure equality and dignity for all people. The country’s Constitution guarantees equality before the law and freedom from discrimination, and that these protections extend to all learners regardless of status or identity. International human rights law also requires states to provide education in an environment free from discrimination and violence, including discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Eswatini has also ratified several international human rights treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which obliges states to respect and ensure rights without discrimination and to protect individuals from advocacy of hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination or hostility. Public officials have a responsibility to avoid making statements that could contribute to discrimination, hostility, or other forms of harm, particularly against already marginalized groups.

In response, Amnesty International urged authorities to publicly affirm that discrimination and bullying in schools will not be tolerated, issue clear guidance, provide training for educators on equality and non-discrimination, and ensure that all learners are able to access education in a safe and inclusive environment.

See also

Anti-LGBTI comments by eSwatini education minister risk fostering bias in schools (Funds for NGOs)

https://news.fundsforngos.org/2026/02/02/anti-lgbti-comments-by-eswatini-education-minister-risk-fostering-bias-in-schools/

Diplomats urge Minister Owen to retract gays statement (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/diplomats-urge-minister-owen-to-retract-gays-statement/

60% of female tertiary students in eSwatini survivors of gender-based violence

By Kwanele Sibiya, eSwatini Observer, 2 February 2026

SOURCE

About 60% of female students in local universities and colleges experienced sexual assault or there was an attempt to violate them, a research conducted by UNESWA has confirmed.

This was revealed by the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) Vice Chancellor (VC) Professor Justice Thwala during One Billion Rising Eswatini 2026 Festival on ending Gender-Based Violence (GBV) held at UNESWA, Kwaluseni Campus on Saturday.

The festival was held under the theme ‘Rising for Our Bodies, Our Earth, Our Future.’

“Research conducted at UNESWA confirms that approximately 60% of female students in local universities and colleges report experiencing attempted or completed sexual assault in their lifetime,” Thwala said.

He said according to the research, nearly 38% of the female students experienced sexual violence within a single year and that over 90% of perpetrators were known to the survivor as they were partners, friends or acquaintances.

He said the statistics also indicated that many survivors never reported the abuse, often due to fear, stigma or lack of trust in systems.

The VC mentioned that further studies led by the deputy prime minister’s office, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), confirmed that GBV in the country was driven by unequal power relations and patriarchal norms, harmful socialisation of youth, alcohol and substance abuse, economic stress and unemployment, weak community accountability, and a culture of silence.

He said these drivers were magnified in youth spaces, including universities and therefore sustained, youth-focused action was not optional.

“Universities are not just places of learning; they are training grounds for future leaders, parents, professionals and policy makers. If we change how young people understand consent, power and respect today, we change the country tomorrow,” he said.

Youth dancing to gospel music dished out by award-winning gospel artist Nothando Hlophe

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/60-of-female-tertiary-students-in-eswatini-survivors-of-gender-based-violence/

See also

Call for unity, purpose in ending GBV (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/call-for-unity-purpose-in-ending-gbv/

Human Rights Watch: World Report. eSwatini events of 2025

SOURCE

In 2025, civic space and the rule of law remained under threat in Eswatini. Impunity for human rights violations is still entrenched, and the authorities have yet to hold anyone accountable for the June 2021 crackdown against pro-democracy demonstrators. They have failed to apprehend the killers of Thulani Maseko, human rights lawyer and opposition activist, who was shot in January 2023. The rights of women and girls continue to be a concern as gender-based violence persisted, with rape on the increase.

Civil and Political Rights

Eswatini, Africa’s last absolute monarchy, continues to ban political parties and severely restrict civil rights. The country scored 17 out of 100 in Freedom House’s Freedom in the World 2025 report. It got 1 out of 40 on political freedoms and 16 out of 60 for civil liberties. As in past years, the report concluded that Eswatini is “not free.” The CIVICUS civic space monitor classifies Eswatini as a closed space.

If passed into law in its current form, the 2024 Non-Profit Organizations (NPO) Bill would further shrink civil space. It includes onerous registration, monitoring, inspection, and reporting requirements for non-profit organizations.

The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) visited Eswatini in July 2025 at the invitation of the government. They found that the Public Order Act of 2017, the Suppression of Terrorism Act of 2008, and the Sedition and Subversive Act of 1938 are routinely weaponized by the state to suppress dissenting voices and curtail freedoms of expression, assembly, and association.

Conduct of Security Forces

The authorities have not held anyone to account for the security forces’ crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in 2021. During these protests, the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) and the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) shot indiscriminately at protesters and passers-by with live ammunition, teargas, and rubber bullets. They also physically assaulted people, killed scores of protesters and injured hundreds more, including children.

Rule of Law

Nearly three years after the killing of Thulani Maseko on January 21, 2023, his killers have yet to be apprehended. Civil society, regional, and international actors pressed the government to investigate the case. But Maseko’s widow, Tanele Maseko, confirmed that she has not heard from the police, despite numerous inquiries. Thulani Maseko was fatally shot at home, in front of his wife and two children, hours after King Mswati III publicly warned those calling for democratic reforms that mercenaries would deal with them.

The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) in a 2025 report on the independence of judges and lawyers noted that Maseko’s killing had a “devastating effect on the independence of lawyers in Eswatini and their ability to practice without fear of threat or reprisals.” The ICJ also noted that lawyers are inhibited from acting independently and “face adverse economic consequences for taking on cases or clients perceived as political.” This includes cases associated with the June 2021 unrest.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2026/country-chapters/eswatini

eSwatini court throws out challenge to deal on US deportees

By Lunga Masuku, Reuters, 4 February 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Eswatini’s high court has thrown out a case filed by human rights lawyers and activists that challenged the government's deal with the United States to accept third-country deportees.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has sent at least 15 third-country deportees to Eswatini since last July, as part of its crackdown on illegal immigration. The small southern African country received $5.1 million as part of the deal.

The applicants in the case, led by the Eswatini Litigation Centre, had claimed that the agreement was unconstitutional because it was not submitted to parliament for approval and the terms were not disclosed.

Three judges dismissed the case on the primary grounds that the applicants did not have a direct interest in the matter and therefore did not have the right to bring it to court, according to a copy of the judgment delivered on Tuesday.

They also raised other issues, such as the fact that the applicants could not produce a copy of the agreement they were challenging.

“We are told to respect the law, yet we watch powerful actors sidestep the constitution,” the Swaziland Rural Women's Assembly, one of the applicants, said in a statement.

“(This case) is about whether people in Eswatini have the right to challenge their government's decisions.”

Eswatini’s attorney general told Reuters last year that the case had no legal basis and was “frivolous”.

Eswatini is an absolute monarchy ruled by King Mswati III. Although its courts are independent in theory, Mswati gets the final say on all appointments of senior judges. Rights groups and legal experts say judicial independence is susceptible to interference from the king and his executive.

Eswatini is one of several African countries that have made secretive deals with the Trump administration to accept deportees.

Those sent to Eswatini have included nationals of Vietnam, Cuba, Laos, and Yemen. They are being held in prison, except for one who was repatriated to Jamaica.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 912 – 30 January 2026

2026-01-30T03:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 912 – 30 January 2026

Govt breaching UN children’s rights convention - Parents

Sunday Observer (eSwatini) Press Reader edition, 25 January 2026

Parents have joined the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) in condemning government’s handling of sweeping education reforms.

They warned that the rushed rollout of Competency-Based Education (CBE) and a new four-year secondary school programme amounts to poor governance and is a breach of an international children’s rights convention.

Eswatini Schools Committee and Parents Association (ESCAPA) President Cedric Chirwa said the association fully agrees with the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) that the ministry of education and training was pressing ahead with reforms without proper consultation, adequate preparation or transparency, despite schools opening on Tuesday.

Chirwa said parents were neither consulted nor given access to reports evaluating pilot programmes, leaving them in the dark about what kind of education their children will receive. “We agree with SNAT and it is even more alarming that parents have also not been engaged,” Chirwa said.

“We have not seen any report on CBE or on the four-year programme. Parents do not know what education will be taught to their children, and teachers themselves are confused. That is a worrying state of affairs as schools open,” he added. The criticism comes as government prepares to introduce CBE across secondary schools and restructure the system into a single four-year cycle covering Grades 8 to 11.

The ministry says the reforms will prioritise practical skills, creativity and mastery of competencies, while moving away from traditional exam rankings and introducing new subjects such as music, dance, fine art and drama.

Chirwa said the manner in which the reforms are being imposed may place Eswatini in breach of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), to which the country is a signatory.

“Article 29 of the Convention defines the aims of education and also recognises the liberty of parents to choose the kind of education they want to give to their children,” he said.

“By not consulting parents and other stakeholders, and by withholding key reports, government is going against that convention,” he added. While careful to avoid inciting language, ESCAPA warned that sidelining parents risks deepening mistrust and entrenching divisions around education policy.

“This is dangerous because it creates a situation where one party sees itself as always right and the other as opposition. That is not what we want. We want to move together, to speak openly about how to improve the system and agree on the way forward,” he stated.

He cautioned that without transparency and shared ownership, failed reforms could degenerate into blame-shifting rather than accountability.

“If it fails, people will point fingers, and others will defend decisions even when they know things were done wrongly, simply for the sake of defending,” he said.

At the core of parents’ frustration, according to him, is the absence of publicly available reports on the performance of CBE at primary school level and on the pilot of the four-year secondary programme conducted in selected schools last year.

Without these, ESCAPA argues, there is no evidence base for scaling the reforms nationwide.

“These reports should have been available not only to parents, but also to the media, so they could be interpreted and explained to the wider public,” Chirwa said.

Three years on, justice denied for assassinated eSwatini human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko as Amnesty International demands independent investigation

By Abigail Jele, Swaziland News, 28 January 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: It’s been three solid years since the assassination of Thulani Maseko, a highly respected human rights lawyer who was shot dead at his home on 21 January 2023 in Eswatini.

Three years on, no one has been held accountable for his killing, his assassination sent shockwaves across the country, the region, and the international human rights community, and remains a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who defend human rights in Eswatini.

As demands for justice continue, Amnesty International has raised serious concerns about the slow pace and lack of transparency surrounding investigations into his death.

Reached for comments by this Swaziland News, Amnesty International Southern Africa Coordinator stated that, even though the motive behind Maseko’s assassination “remains unclear”, they strongly believe he was murdered for defending human rights.

“Although the motive behind his killing remains unclear, Amnesty International has reason to believe that Thulani Maseko was murdered in connection with his work as a human rights defender and lawyer. Amnesty International is concerned that the search for those responsible for his violent death is dragging on, despite longstanding calls from civil society organizations, governments and intergovernmental organizations for an independent investigation into his murder.

Amnesty International calls on King Mswati III. to promptly, thoroughly and impartially investigate the unlawful killing of Thulani Maseko and to bring any responsible individuals to justice in a fair trial. Amnesty International also urges that Thulani Maseko’s family be granted access to justice and effective legal remedies. They must also be protected from intimidation”, said the Amnesty International Coordinator.

Three years after his killing, justice for Thulani Maseko remains elusive and continued absence of accountability not only deepens the pain of his family but also entrenches a culture of impunity that places all human rights defenders at risk.

‘Expel them’: eSwatini minister sparks alarm with anti-LGBTQ school rhetoric

By Luiz De Barros, Mamba Online, 28 January 2026

SOURCE

LGBTQ+ young people have come under attack in Eswatini after the country’s Education Minister called for queer school pupils to be expelled, comparing them to gangsters.

According to local media, Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo made the troubling remarks on Tuesday while visiting schools in the capital, Mbabane, to mark the start of the academic year.

Nxumalo claimed that learners in the southern African nation were being “coerced” into what he described as “unacceptable behaviour”, including gangsterism and homosexuality.

He told scholars and staff that same-sex relationships had no place in schools because they conflicted with religious beliefs and cultural traditions.

“We do not know where these practices come from, and we rebuke them in the name of Jesus,” Nxumalo was quoted as saying. “One fails to understand why a girl would convince another girl to fall in love with her.”

The minister added, “I will not tolerate any issues that come with homosexual relationships in our schools,” and vowed to personally ensure that any pupils involved in such relationships were expelled.

Nxumalo reportedly also praised US President Donald Trump’s stance on the LGBTQ+ community, describing it as the correct position to take.

LGBTIQ+ advocacy group Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorities (ESGM) expressed its “deep concern” about the minister’s statements, noting that the Constitution guarantees equality and that every Swazi child has the right to education.

“Expelling learners on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation or gender expression directly undermines these constitutional and statutory protections,” ESGM said in a statement.

“Such actions risk denying children their right to education, exposing them to stigma, violence, and long-term harm.”

The group stressed that “sexual orientation and gender identity are not misconduct” and said that “schools have a duty to address behaviour in a manner that is lawful, non-discriminatory, and consistent with child protection principles, not through exclusion or fear.”

ESGM called on the Ministry of Education and Training to ensure that schools are safe and inclusive environments for all learners, and to stop making statements that encourage discrimination, bullying or the exclusion of vulnerable children.

Eswatini remains one of the world’s last absolute monarchies and has a poor record on human rights. Although not actively enforced, men “suspected” of sodomy can be arrested without a warrant under the Criminal Procedure Act of 1938.

ESGM has been engaged in a years-long legal battle to overturn the government’s refusal, despite a court order, to register the organisation as an official entity.

See also

Minister’s same-sex relationships statement: Minister must retract – CANGO (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/ministers-same-sex-relationships-statement-minister-must-retract-cango/

15 minors raped in just 25 days

By Bongiwe Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 26 January 2026

SOURCE

At least 15 children under the age of 18 have been raped since the beginning of the year.

These statistics are according to cases that were officially reported to the police across the country.

The latest case was reported in Mankayane on January 21, where a four-year-old girl was raped allegedly by her 18-year-old neighbour. The incident happened at Nhlotjeni in December.

Sources close to the matter said the four-year-old and other minors usually went to the 18-year-old man’s home to play.

All seemed normal until early last week when the four-year-old girl’s mother overheard some children older than her daughter discussing what the teenager did to them when they went to play at his home.

Surprised, the mother is said to have then called her daughter aside and asked her what happened to them when they were playing at the neighbour’s home.

“The girl narrated that they were violated by the 18-year-old. Her mother reported the matter to the police, while parents and guardians of the rest of the children said they were still to discuss the matter,” said a source.

The suspect has not been arrested yet, as confirmed by Acting Deputy Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Inspector Mazwi Ndzimandze.

This case is at least the 15th to be reported to the police this month.

The cases reportedly happened in various areas in all four regions of the country.

The Lubombo region leads with six cases, followed by the Manzini and Hhohho regions with four cases each.

Only one case has so far been reported in the Shiselweni region.

More than half of the survivors of abuse are under 14 years, while at least four are aged 10 or below, indicating extreme vulnerability among younger children.

In the majority of the cases, the alleged perpetrators are known to the victims, including relatives such as uncles, cousins, stepfathers, neighbours, and boyfriends.

This points to abuse occurring largely within trusted environments such as homes, family settings and neighbourhoods, as previously articulated by SWAGAA in its latest report (December 2025).

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/15-minors-raped-in-just-25-days/

The King’s Imbasha: How royal patronage is bankrupting the State

Opinion by Velaphi Mamba, Swaziland News, 25 January 2026

SOURCE

King Mswati III has long relied on cultural nationalism as a substitute for democratic legitimacy.

Culture, in his hands, is not simply heritage but a governing technology that is employed to manufacture obedience, suppress dissent, and convert public resources into royal loyalty.

Under the banner of tradition, state power is reproduced not through accountable institutions but through ritual, spectacle, and increasingly, cash incentives meant to buttress a patronage system that has now bankrupted the country.

It is within this context that the practice of imbasha must be understood. Following the weeding of the King’s fields after the Incwala ceremony, regiments are paid a cash stipend, framed as cultural appreciation and a symbol of the king’s benevolence.

This year alone, the reported cost of imbasha reached a staggering E45 million. At E1,000 per regiment member, this implies that roughly 45,000 people will be paid representing only 3.75% of Eswatini’s population of approximately 1.2 million. Fewer than four out of every hundred emaSwati will receive this benefit, while the remaining 96% are excluded, many facing chronic unemployment, food insecurity, and failing public services.

It is important to also highlight the fact that imbasha is paid to men and boys only, who are the ones that culturally weed the king’s fields. The gender dimensions of the matter should therefore not go unnoticed.

The imbasha stipend is not a marginal expense nor a once-off gesture. If imbasha continues at E45 million per year and the 45 000 regiments’ figure remains constant, the state will have spent E450 million over a decade buying loyalty from a narrow segment of society. Nearly half a billion Emalangeni will have been transferred not through developmental programmes or social protection, but through a patronage system designed to reward ritual compliance and entrench royal hegemony.

This is not a sustainable national redistributive program but selective appeasement, financed by a state already massively failing to meet its most basic obligations. The swelling numbers to weed the king’s fields are not a sign of the people’s love of culture and the king.

They are emblematic of the economic desperation of the masses.

Worse still, the imbasha system is riddled with corruption and opacity. The money does not reach regiment members through transparent, auditable payment mechanisms. Instead, it is channelled through layers of traditional leadership – tindvuna and royal structures where discretion replaces accountability.

This creates fertile ground for skimming, favouritism, and exclusion. Numerous accounts indicate that not all regiments receive the full E1,000, while others receive nothing at all, depending on their proximity to power. Portions of the E45 million vanish before reaching the intended recipients, shrinking even further the already tiny share of emaSwati who benefit.

The absence of beneficiary registers, payment trails, independent audits, or parliamentary oversight means that tens of millions of Emalangeni are being moved annually in ways that offend basic principles of public finance management and potentially violate anti–money laundering laws. In any functioning state, such cash-heavy, politically controlled disbursements would trigger an investigation.

In Eswatini, they are normalized and we are witnessing money laundering by the king in plain sight. This is egregious exercise of public finances and needs to be revisited.

King Mswati (centre) during the end of 2025-2026 Incwala ceremony

To read more of this commentary, click here

http://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=11208

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 911 – 23 January 2026

2026-01-23T03:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 911 – 23 January 2026

80% women neglect children for jobs

By Nokuphila Haji, eSwatini Observer, 16 January 2026

SOURCE

The deputy prime minister’s office has revealed that 80% of the cases handled under the Asibambaneni SibeNgumndeni programme involved women who had neglected their children while seeking employment opportunities.

This is contained in findings from a report compiled by the office, following visits to affected families.

When speaking during an Eswatini TV Programme, Kusile Breakfast Show, Senior Gender Analyst Thandwa Dlamini said the findings showed that many families were experiencing severe economic hardship, forcing caregivers to seek employment away from home.

She said women, who traditionally carry the burden of caregiving, often face difficult choices after childbirth, including leaving children behind in search of work.

She said 80% of the cases involved women neglecting their children, noting that the analysis revealed widespread struggles among women in communities to adequately care for their children.

Dlamini added that, in many cases, this neglect was a survival strategy, as women who lacked the means to support their children often took them to their grandparents, who then became the primary caregivers.

“There is also a gender-based violence component, because in most cases women who are abused run away from perpetrators, leaving the child behind becomes a form of protection for themselves and the child from future abuse,” she said.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/80-women-neglect-children-for-jobs/

eSwatini’s health workers call medical delivery drone network ‘revolutionary’

By Zimkhitha Mbulawa, Gavi, Vaccines Work, 21 January 2026

SOURCE

Health worker receives drone-delivered medications in Eswatini. Credit: Nkwe

Eswatini has joined the growing roster of African countries relying on medical drones for delivery of vaccines and other health commodities to their remotest communities.

But the Nkwe Drone Network comes with an important difference. Rather than dropping their payload by parachute, Nkwe drones land – meaning they can pick up sensitive cargo, such as blood samples, at the last mile.

Representatives of the organisation behind the Nkwe Drone Network say drone flights are typically six times faster than grounded medical transport, at a competitive cost.

Eswatini’s remotest districts are not only under-served in terms of hospital infrastructure: the delivery of vaccines, meds, antivirals and emergency bloodwork samples is constrained too. During the annual flood-prone seasons, things get dire.

That’s where Nkwe Drone Network – the kingdom’s first authorised medical drone network, which did over 600 flights in just its first year – jumps in.

The name “Nkwe” means “sprint” in siSwati, and was conferred upon the unmanned fleet by the kingdom’s health minister, Mduduzi Matsebula, at the official launch ceremony in June 2024.

“[Using] drone deliveries instead of roads has really helped a lot of us as a clinic in the vaccination of kids, adults, treatments, HIV tests, urgent bloodwork,” said Lomalungelo Mavuso, a community health worker who has served at Ngculwini Nazarene Clinic since 2017. Ngculwini is a rural healthcare centre in the northwest of Eswatini.

The people behind the drone initiative are The Luke Commission (TLC), a US-founded non-profit healthcare organisation operating in Eswatini for the last 20 years, and providing everything from cataract surgeries to HIV care.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.gavi.org/vaccineswork/eswatini-health-workers-call-medical-delivery-drone-network-revolutionary

Scramble to seize control of the media is a new ‘political corona virus’ affecting Swazi journalism but, it’s curable

Opinion by Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 18 January, 2026

SOURCE

It is public knowledge that my journey as a journalist has been going through a rough road of course, with potholes that smooth surfaces but, I’ve learned that “being hated by a dictatorship Government automatically gives one credibility in the eyes of the international community”.

The credibility arose from fact that, most international organizations are fully aware that, any undemocratic Government that strives on secrecy perceives the independent media as an enemy because, sometimes it reports critical news that does not favour the State.

It is for these reasons, the more the independent media is rebuked by the Eswatini Government, the more it gains international recognition and support because, most international organizations wants diversity of news and, those news cannot be disseminated in a more diverse way, if all publications are controlled by the State.

The media is facing challenges not only in Eswatini but within the African continent, it’s just that in Eswatini you find even very stupid people like King’s Interpreter Sihle Dlamini telling the media what to write, these fools think just because they work with King Mswati, then they have all the powers to tell journalists how to do their job.

The media is actually facing a political ‘corona virus’ but it’s curable.

It’s not only Sihle Dlamini, even “Sibutseki from eMalawini nasifake emajobo nje nemhelwane locotfukile” can just invade the newsroom claiming to be there to deliver an order from the King and block a story.

But maybe there’s nothing wrong with these royal lunatics invading Eswatini newsrooms to block stories because some media companies are owned by royalty or the Government, but the problem starts when they demonstrate a political appetite to control even the Swaziland News that is registered and operating in South Africa.

It should be noted that, there was a strategic reason why this publication was registered in the neighboring South Africa, one of the reasons was to force anyone seeking to challenge it in court, to approach the South African independent courts not the Swazi courts and if that person has a genuine case, that matter will be handled by independent Judges.

Eswatini Government lost a case against this publication at the Mpumalanga Court, there’s no way in South Africa where lunatics can just wake-up in the morning and decide to silence the media, maybe in the Spaza Swazi courts.

The Swaziland News will report anything critical about the Eswatini Government and the royal family, lunatics like King’s Interpreter Sihle Dlamini will do absolutely nothing to silence this publication except to read and enjoy critical articles.

Why those who claim to be ignoring this publication are the first ones to know what the Swaziland News has published and, other platforms learn through Sihle Dlamini’s platform that some public figures are responding to this publication.

This means Sihle Dlamini is a loyal reader of this publication, almost every five (5) minutes he is reading this publication.

Now that Facebook has approved Swaziland News to earn money through articles, Sihle Dlamini will contribute to the online revenue generation for this publication. Siyabonga kuMtukulu weMtukulu, we-Mntfwanenkhosi Njebovu.

Why attend? Tariff hike will happen anyway - residents

By Khulile Thwala, Times of eSwatini, 21 January 2026

SOURCE

NHLANGANO: Poor attendance marked the electricity tariff consultation held at Bethesda Church in Nhlangano, with residents attributing the low turnout to public fatigue.

Despair and a growing belief that tariff hikes are implemented regardless of public submissions were also attributed to the low numbers.

The tariff hike proposal public hearings are being hosted by the Eswatini Electricity Regulatory Authority (ESERA) in conjunction with the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC).

Nhlangano-stationed Pensioners Association representative Ntombi Dlamini pointed out that it was unfortunate that many people failed to attend a consultation dealing with an issue that directly affected their daily survival.

“When I tried to raise this issue and encouraged people to attend the consultations, many of my colleagues and acquaintances accused me of financially abusing them,” said Ntombi.

She explained that even when she contacted pensioners ahead of the consultation to remind them to attend, the response was largely negative.

“They told me that these consultations are harassment, and by pressuring them to attend I was abusing them because they cannot afford the proposed electricity hike,” she said.

According to Ntombi, this sentiment explained the poor attendance at the meeting.

“I attend these consultations regularly, but today there is an evident poor turnout because people are now shunning these sessions,” she said.

She stressed that pensioners were adamant that they would not cope should the proposed tariff hike be implemented.

Ntombi lamented the meagre monthly income some pensioners received, stating that it was already insufficient to meet basic needs, even before factoring in increased electricity costs.

“If the little we earn is already pinched just to make ends meet, where will we get money for more expensive electricity units?” she asked.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Why+attend%3F+Tariff+hike+will+happen+anyway+-+residents&yiphi=2609&bvhdgsj=News

eSwatini records world’s highest cervical cancer death rate

By Sibusiso Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 18 January 2026

SOURCE

The country’s health system is facing another grave test.

As the kingdom grapples with an acute drug shortage crisis while being named among those with the highest suicide rates globally, new data now places the country at the very top of a far more lethal league table: cervical cancer deaths.

According to statistics drawn from World Population Review figures for 2026, the country records the highest cervical cancer burden in the world, with an incidence rate of 57.8 per 100 000 women.

The country’s crude incidence rate far exceeds that of neighbouring states already considered high-risk.

Lesotho follows at 49.9, Malawi at 42.8, Zimbabwe at 39.2, and Comoros at 38.8. South Africa, by comparison, records 35.6.

Even more alarming is the cumulative risk, as a girl born in the country today faces an 8.6% chance of developing cervical cancer by the age of 74 if current trends persist. This is among the highest lifetime risks recorded globally.

All in all, Southern Africa dominates the list of countries with the highest cervical cancer rates, reflecting shared challenges. Malawi (42.8), Zimbabwe (39.2) and Mozambique (33.1) all feature prominently, as do Zambia and Tanzania further north.

In public health terms, these figures, according to medical doctor and Ekuphileni Clinic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Advocate Dlamini, place the country in a category of extreme vulnerability.

Dr Dlamini’s explanation for the country’s alarmingly high cervical cancer death rate is that too many girls are being exposed to sex far too early, when their bodies are not ready to fight the virus that causes the disease.

“Cervical cancer is caused by a sexually transmitted virus known as the human papillomavirus (HPV). Not all HPV types are dangerous, but types 16 and 18 are responsible for most cervical cancer cases worldwide. Once the virus enters the body, it can quietly damage cervical cells over time, eventually turning them cancerous,” he explained.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/eswatini-records-worlds-highest-cervical-cancer-death-rate/

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 910 – 16 January 2026

2026-01-16T03:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 910 – 16 January 2026

eSwatini among world’s worst on workers’ rights again

By Sibusiso Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 11 January 2026

SOURCE

Eswatini has for the fourth consecutive year been ranked among the world’s 10 worst countries for workers by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).

The Brussels-based global labour federation has released the 2025 Global Rights Index, placing Eswatini alongside Bangladesh, Belarus, Ecuador, Egypt, Myanmar, Nigeria, the Philippines, Tunisia and Türkiye as the countries where workers face the most severe and systematic violations of their rights globally.

The latest ranking in the annual index reinforces a pattern that has now become entrenched since 2022, where the country is at the bottom tier of the Index.

The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) is the world’s largest global

labour organisation, representing more than 200 million workers through national

trade union centres in over 160 countries.

The country’s score is unchanged from last year, a sign, according to the report, that conditions for working people have stagnated or deteriorated rather than improved.

In its country assessment, the labour federation links labour rights concerns to broader political matters, claiming that while trade unions, which are vital democratic institutions, continue to face persecution.

Central to the ITUC’s assessment is the use of the Public Order Act of 2017 to restrict gatherings, protests and petition delivery.

“Basic freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly are severely restricted,” the Index stated, highlighting cases involving Swaziland Transport, Communication and Allied Workers Union (SWATCAWU) Secretary General Sticks Nkambule and Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) President Mbongwa Dlamini.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/eswatini-among-worlds-worst/

Another price hike to push consumers beyond survival point

By Stanley Khumalo, Times of eSwatini, 12 January 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: As EEC seeks a 20.67 per cent hike to avoid insolvency, debt-ridden households warn that another price increase will push them beyond the point of survival.

The Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) has defended its application for a 20.67 per cent electricity tariff increase for the 2026/27 financial year, citing financial necessity rather than profit motive.

This reality of EEC simply means that consumers, who are barely coping with the cost-of-living, must dig deeper into their pockets and as the proposed tariff hike is more than double the previously approved seven per cent increase.

This proposed tariff increment, which the public is yet to submit on, if granted, consumers will see their purchasing power for electricity vanish. For E100, a customer will receive only 32 units, down from the current 40 units, with each unit costing E3.01.

The impact also transcends to those on the lifeline, which is designed for low-income households, as they are facing a proposed 15.6 per cent increase, while standard domestic users could see a staggering 26 per cent jump in their specific category.

Households, already buckling under a wave of price hikes for basic commodities, are facing a ‘breaking point’ as the electricity costs envisaged to increase in April 2026, are adding to other expenditures which have increased in recent months.

In October 2025, the price of bread, the ultimate staple for the working class, increased by seven per cent. This was effected while the public transport is still finalising its proposal for new bus fares.

They are projecting that the bus fare hikes will not be below 50 per cent. This, on its own, threatens household expenditure as parents and guardians use public transport for their children to and from school.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Another+price+hike+to+push+consumers+beyond+survival+point&yiphi=2486&bvhdgsj=News

Emaswati welcome foreign powers, favour free trade

By Asafika Mpako and Stephen Ndoma, Afrobarometer 12 January 2026

SOURCE

Eswatini has been on a drive to expand its diplomatic and development partnerships. In 2024, the monarchy established relations with Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, and Saudi Arabia and signed joint cooperation agreements and memoranda of understanding with Indonesia,

Serbia, Rwanda, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda, and Türkiye (Africa Press, 2024). In the East, Eswatini is cultivating bonds with Bhutan, South Korea, and Singapore. And despite its relationship with China, its largest Asian trading partner (in 2022, Eswatini imported goods worth more than $109 million from China), Eswatini maintains official diplomatic relations with Taiwan – the only African country to do so (Musi, 2024; Odota, 2024).

Before recent changes in U.S. foreign assistance, the United States was Eswatini’s largest source of aid, including hundreds of millions of dollars to fight HIV/AIDS and strengthen the country’s health systems (Cohen, 2025; U.S. Embassy in Eswatini, 2020). During the COVID-19 pandemic, Eswatini’s response was bolstered by support from the United States, China, and the European Union (EU), among others (Nantulya, 2021; Delegation of the European Union to the Kingdom of Eswatini, 2020). Even so, Eswatini’s economy suffered greatly due to the pandemic, with devastating effects for its citizens: As of 2022, 59% of Eswatini’s population lived below the national poverty line (Bertelsmann Stiftung, 2024; Musi, 2024).

In August, King Mswati III was appointed deputy chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation, charged with facilitating peace and security in the region (Eswatini Observer, 2025). Earlier in the year, Eswatini was elected to the African Union’s (AU) Peace and Security Council to represent Southern Africa for the 2025-2028 term, highlighting the country’s increasing influence in continental affairs (History Rise, 2025).

How do Emaswati view their economic and political relations with the rest of the world? The most recent Afrobarometer survey reveals that citizens are supportive of international trade and political cooperation. Most Emaswati see the economic and political influence of China as substantial and beneficial. Citizens are also far more positive than negative in their assessments of the influence of SADC, the AU, the EU, the United States, India, and the United Kingdom.

Similarly, only about one in five respondents are dissatisfied with the way Eswatini’s needs and interests are recognised in SADC and AU decision making. But a substantial majority say African countries need a stronger voice on global platforms such as the United Nations.

Small books, big futures: how families in eSwatini are reading together

By Mahlubi Ntsetselelo Dlamini, World Bank, 12 January 2026

SOURCE

In the rural tinkhundla of Sithobela, a mother reading to her young son reflects a quiet transformation taking place across Eswatini. With only 2% of children owning three or more books, the Read@Home pilot - led by the Ministry of Education with World Bank support - set out to close the early literacy gap. By providing age-appropriate books in SiSwati and English, caregiver coaching, and teacher training, the initiative reached over 700 children across four communities. Early findings show increased reading at home, improved vocabulary, and stronger caregiver confidence. The pilot proves that even in resource-constrained settings, families can nurture a lasting culture of reading - starting with just 10 minutes a day.

In the rural inkhundla (subdivision) of Sithobela, nestled in Eswatini’s Lubombo region, a mother settles beside her four-year-old son after a long day. She holds a small SiSwati picture book, and he softly asks, “Ngicela ufundze emake”—please read. Within minutes, their quiet room fills with questions, laughter, and new words. As they close the book, he looks up and says, “Tomorrow again.” In that simple moment, reading transforms into an act of love, and a new daily tradition begins.

Reading to your child is more than a cherished ritual- it’s a fundamental pillar of child development. Studies consistently show that children who are read to regularly develop stronger language abilities, improved attention spans, and a lifelong love of learning. One study found that children who are read to are able to gain multiple dimensions of information- not just new words, but the ability to extract moral lessons and recall story details from picture books, thus fostering readiness for school.

But perhaps most importantly, these shared moments with a book create lasting memories - moments filled with curiosity, laughter, and meaningful connection that strengthen the unique bond between parent and child. According to the latest Eswatini Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (2022), although most children under five in the country have access to toys and play materials, only 2% were found to own three or more children’s books.

To address this significant gap, Eswatini’s Ministry of Education, with support from the World Bank, launched a pilot initiative in 2025 aimed at delivering books directly to households—focusing especially on rural and hard-to-reach communities. This effort is part of the Strengthening Early Childhood Development and Basic Education Systems to Support Human Capital Development in Eswatini Project. It was guided by a clear vision: to provide every young child with the opportunity to build a strong foundation for learning through access to early literacy resources.

Led by the Ministry of Education and Training and implemented through Bantwana (an NGO), the Read@Home pilot reached caregivers of children aged 0–5 years—especially families whose children weren't yet in formal early childhood programs. The initiative unfolded across four tinkhundlas: Maseyisini, Mayiwane, Mafutseni, and Sithobela.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2026/01/12/small-books-big-futures-how-families-in-eswatini-are-reading-together

SWAGAA data shows Manzini leading GBV cases in December

By Bongiwe Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 14 January, 2026

SOURCE

New data released by the Swatini Action Group Against Abuse (SWAGAA) reveals a troubling surge in gender-based violence (GBV) within the Manzini region, which accounted for 61% of all reported abuse cases in December.

According to the analysis of 53 GBV cases reported during the month, Manzini remained the epicentre of abuse, underscoring the urgent need for targeted interventions.

Lubombo followed with 23% of reported cases, while Shiselweni and Hhohho accounted for 9% and 7%, respectively. Notably, Hhohho recorded the lowest number of cases in December compared to earlier months in the year.

Also, the December figures indicated that women and girls continued to bear the brunt of abuse.

Of the 53 reported cases, 42 (77%) involved female victims, while 12 cases (23%) involved male victims.

Emotional abuse emerged as the most prevalent form of GBV, accounting for 66% (35 cases) of all reported incidents during the month.

Sexual abuse made up 15% (eight cases) of the total and was reported exclusively by female survivors, highlighting the persistent vulnerability of women and girls to sexual violence. No cases of financial abuse were recorded in December.

Further analysis of sexual abuse cases revealed pronounced geographic concentration.

Manzini recorded 61% of all reported gender-based violence cases in December, according to new data released by SWAGAA, highlighting urgent intervention needs.

Manzini alone accounted for 63% of all reported sexual abuse incidents, reinforcing its status as a critical hotspot requiring urgent intervention. Shiselweni followed with 13%, while Hhohho and Lubombo each recorded 12% of such cases.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/swagaa-data-shows-manzini-leading-gbv-cases/

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 909 – 9 January 2026

2026-01-09T03:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 909 – 9 January 2026

WHO warns eSwatini has world’s highest male suicide rate

By Sibusiso Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 4 January 4, 2026

SOURCE

Eswatini has recorded the highest male suicide rates in the world, placing the country at the centre of a deepening public health emergency that the World Health Organisation (WHO) says demands immediate, coordinated national action.

Globally, the kingdom ranks second overall for suicide, with men accounting for about 80% of completed cases.

This assessment has been highlighted by BIO50+, a research and briefing platform, which analysed the WHO’s Q3 2025 public health briefing for Eswatini, that warns that suicide rates in the kingdom have reached levels that can no longer be treated as a marginal or isolated health concern.

Instead, the agency frames it as a systemic national challenge with implications for health policy, social cohesion and economic stability.

According to the WHO briefing, men bear a disproportionate share of suicide deaths in the country, accounting for roughly four out of every five completed cases.

The imbalance mirrors a broader global pattern, but is far more pronounced in the kingdom, pushing the country to the top of global rankings for male suicide mortality.

Data compiled from health facilities and law enforcement between 2021 and 2025 point to hundreds of suicide-related cases, with the majority involving adults aged 25 and above.

While women and adolescents are also affected, the scale among men has raised particular concern among public health experts, who link the trend to social expectations around masculinity, economic pressure and low rates of help-seeking for mental distress.

The WHO cautions that these figures likely underestimate the true scale of the problem, as suicides are often underreported due to stigma, misclassification of deaths and gaps in community level surveillance, particularly in rural areas.

“The rising number of suicides in Eswatini is a serious public health concern that requires urgent and coordinated action,” the WHO has warned, calling on government, communities, institutions and the media to treat prevention as a shared national responsibility.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/who-warns-eswatini-has-worlds-highest-male-suicide-rate/

Parents frustrated as most urban schools full

By Siphosethu Dlamini and Sabelo Majola, Times of eSwatini, 8 January 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: With the new academic year just days away, parents are still desperately searching for spaces for their children, while head teachers maintain that most schools are already full.

Across Mbabane and surrounding areas, anxious parents were seen moving from one school to another in a last-minute rush to secure placements, particularly for pupils entering Form I. At several schools visited yesterday, long queues formed outside administration blocks as parents waited from dawn, hoping to be among the few lucky ones to secure spaces.

Others were seen clutching envelopes, ready to make immediate payments should an opportunity arise. However, many schools have reached full capacity and are no longer accepting new admissions.

At St Mark’s High School Head Teacher Khanyisile ‘Baah’ Shabangu confirmed that registration closed at 3pm yesterday for pupils who had already passed their entrance interviews. She revealed that only about 30 spaces were available on Monday for those who met the school’s admission requirements and those slots had since been filled.

“Ninety-five per cent of the admitted pupils have already paid their fees. Even if a few do not return, the number of available spaces will still be very limited,” said Shabangu.

She added that while she sympathised with parents who continue to visit the school despite being informed that spaces are full, there was little the school could do due to infrastructure and resource limitations.

“We wish we could take them all in, but our facilities simply cannot accommodate more learners. The only chance some parents have is the eventuality of a few admitted pupils not showing up by the 3pm deadline,” she said.

A similar situation was observed at Ka-Boyce High School, where parents said they had arrived as early as 6am hoping to be assisted. However, school officials told them that all spaces had been filled.

The Deputy Head Teacher at Ka-Boyce, Nathi Nkambule, said: “It is very disturbing and painful to be turning parents away, as we know they wish for their children to learn here, but it is beyond our control. We had hoped to admit 135 pupils for Form I, planning three classes of 45 learners maximum, but we have long surpassed that.”

One parent, when asked why he remained at the school despite being told the school was full, said: “We were told the school is full, but we’re still waiting, hoping something changes.” He requested anonymity.

To read more of this report, click here

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Parents+frustrated+as+most+urban+schools+full&yiphi=2444&bvhdgsj=News

PUDEMO notes escalating number of deaths amid shortage of drugs in public hospitals

By Bongiwe Dlamini, Swaziland News, 1 January, 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: The People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) has noted with great concern the escalating number of deaths in the country amid shortage of drugs in public hospitals.

In a New Year Statement released by Deputy Secretary General (DSG) Maxwell Dlamini and sent to this Swaziland News, the Eswatini main liberation movement said the public healthcare system “remains” in a state of collapse.

“The public healthcare system remains in a state of collapse. Hospitals and clinics across the country, including Mbabane Government Hospital, Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital, and facilities in Shiselweni and Lubombo are characterized by chronic drug shortages, broken equipment, and understaffing and corruption-ridden procurement systems. PUDEMO notes with deep anger the shocking increase in the number of Swazi families who have unnecessarily lost their loved ones in public hospitals. These deaths are not inevitable; they are the result of neglect and mis-governance. The government’s failure to consistently provide dialysis services has condemned patients to slow and painful deaths, while the permanent absence of blood at the national blood bank has turned routine medical emergencies into death sentences,” said the PUDEMO Deputy Secretary General.

On another note, PUDEMO further condemned the continued plight of un-hired doctors and medical professionals, alongside interns who have remained in compulsory internships for over two years without salaries, while communities die for lack of care.

“This is not incompetence, it is criminal neglect of public duty,” reads the statement in part.

See also

PUDEMO blames Tinkhundla undemocratic Government amid escalating Gender Based Violence (Swaziland News)

http://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=11007

Rife child sexual abuse exposes home vulnerability

By Bongiwe Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 5 January 2026

SOURCE

The arrest of three men in separate rape cases, including fathers and stepfathers allegedly sexually abusing their daughters, indicates the continued exposure of children to grave harm within spaces meant to offer protection.

The cases happened at Bhunya and Malkerns. Bhunya police arrested two suspects in connection with separate rape cases.

In one case, a 42-year-old man from Zondwako was charged under the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act for allegedly repeatedly raping his biological daughter (19). The police said investigations indicated that the abuse occurred over five years, from 2020 to 2025, when the girl was 14 years old.

In a report, the police alleged that the suspect exploited the victim’s innocence by raping her in his consultation room (indumba) and manipulating her into believing that the acts were culturally acceptable.

He allegedly told her that it was customary for a girl to engage in sexual relations with relatives first and further allegedly threatened to kill her if she disclosed the abuse.

The matter came to light after the victim discovered that she was pregnant. She reportedly confided in her mother, who then involved her uncles.

On December 31, 2025, one of the uncles is said to have escorted her to the Manzini One Stop Centre, where the case was reported and later transferred to Bhunya police, leading to the suspect’s arrest.

In a separate case, Bhunya police also arrested a 24-year-old man from Mangcongco in connection with the alleged rape of a 16-year-old girl from the same area.

The two suspects appeared before the Manzini Magistrate’s Court last Friday, where they were remanded in custody pending the setting of their trial dates.

Meanwhile, the Malkerns police arrested a 37-year-old man from Ndinda in connection with the alleged sexual abuse of his stepdaughter.

The victim, a 17-year-old girl from Timbutini, was reportedly abused for nearly two years between 2023 and 2025.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/rife-child-sexual-abuse-exposes-home-vulnerability/

MPs visit paving way for ex-MP’s release amid United Nations pressure

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 2 January, 2026

SOURCE

MBABANE: Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza, the convicted pro-democracy ex-Eswatini Member of Parliament (MP) might soon be released as the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNRC) Working Group deadline approaches.

In a ‘ruling’ seen and previously reported by this publication, the UN Working Group gave the Kingdom of Eswatini a six (6) months ultimatum from October 2025 to release Mabuza and ex-MP Mthandeni Dube or else, the unlawful and/or politically motivated conviction will be escalated with the higher structures of the United Nations.

The United Nations Working Group investigates cases of deprivation of liberty imposed arbitrarily or inconsistently with the international standards set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, or the international legal instruments accepted by the States concerned.

But the UN Working Group communicated the ruling or report to King Mswati’s Government on the 15th October 2025 after investigating the politically motivated conviction of MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube.

Subsequent and/or after receiving the directive, the King released MP Mthandeni Dube after tricking him through Justice Minister Prince Simelane to apologize while MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza is still behind bars at Matsapha Prison for politically motivated crimes he never committed.

The pro-democracy MPs were unlawfully convicted by Judge Mumcy Dlamini who is married to a royal family member Prince Majahenkhaba and, the Judge was allegedly acting on orders or directive issued by King Mswati.

But as per an investigation report previously published by this Swaziland News, a delegation of MPs accompanied by King’s Protocol Officer Khandlela Mdluli subsequently visited ex-MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza at Matsapha Correctional Complex this week.

But even though the delegation claimed to have gone to Matsapha Correctional Complex to visit inmates as part of the Christmas celebration, this journalist subsequently gathered that ex-MP Bacede Mabuza was “again negotiated to apologize” to King Mswati and be immediately released.

Eswatini is an absolute Monarchy, the then MPs Mabuza and Dube MPs were arrested merely for demanding democracy and subsequently charged with terrorism, murder and other fabricated politically motivated criminal charges.

Phindile Dlamini, the Commissioner General of the Correctional Services declined to comment about the meetings held to discuss the release of the pro-democracy MP.

But sources within the corridors of powers told this publication that, appointed MP Prince Lindani is allegedly leading the process of attempting to force or convince ex-MP Mabuza to apologise to his father Mswati and be released.

“Attempts to intimidate him failed as he refused to apologise and now, the strategy is to be polite and negotiate him to before the UN deadline,” said a high profile insider within the corridors of power.

But Madala Mhlanga, the Deputy Speaker in the House of Assembly previously told this publication that, the delegation of MPs accompanied by King’s Protocol Officer Khandlela Mdluli visited ex-MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and other high profile inmates just to demonstrate love and appreciate them as members of the society despite their past ‘mistakes’.

The Deputy Speaker together with Kwaluseni MP Sifiso Shongwe donated soccer kits to the Matsapha inmates soccer team.

MPs visited convicted pro-democracy MP Bacede Mabuza who was arrested for demanding democracy in the undemocratic Kingdom of Eswatini

See also

MPs visit Bacede, Sipho Shongwe in prison (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/mps-visit-bacede-sipho-shongwe-in-prison/

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 908 – 19 December 2025

2025-12-19T04:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 908 – 19 December 2025

US, eSwatini sign landmark E4.1bn health agreement

By Ntombi Mhlongo, eSwatini News, 13 December 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini and the United States (US) Government have entered a new chapter in their two-decade partnership to combat HIV.

This follows the signing of a landmark US$242 million (approximately E4.1 billion) bilateral memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the American Corner in Mbabane.

The agreement, which was formalised in Mbabane, marks what US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Marc Weinstock described as “a new chapter in our history of cooperation on health—the foundation of security, prosperity and many other goals shared between our nations.”

Speaking during the ceremony, Weinstock shared that the US Government plans to contribute up to US$205 million (approximately E E3.485 billion) over the next five years, while the Government of Eswatini has committed to increasing domestic health spending by US$37 million (approximately E629 million) to progressively take on more financial responsibility as US funding tapers during the MoU period.

Weinstock emphasised that the US remains Eswatini’s largest development partner, both bilaterally and through global institutions.

“I want to assure you that the United States remains Eswatini’s largest partner, both bilaterally and through international multilateral institutions,” he said.

The Chargé d’Affaires highlighted the recent introduction of lenacapavir, a groundbreaking twice-yearly HIV prevention injection.

Describing it as a major scientific advance, he said the American innovation was brought to Eswatini within months of its approval in the US, with government funding access for thousands of emaSwati. Reflecting on the broader partnership, Weinstock stated that over the past 20 years, America’s investment in Eswatini has saved thousands of lives, transformed the local economy and strengthened the health system.

Support for Eswatini’s HIV response alone, he said, has exceeded US$900 million (about E15.3 billion) over the two-decade partnership.

He explained that the newly-signed MoU is designed to directly support Eswatini’s goals for a sustainable HIV response as set out in the National Multisectoral HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework for 2024–2028.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=US%2C+Eswatini+sign+landmark+E4.1bn+health+agreement&yiphi=2171&bvhdgsj=News

See also

United States (US) to gain access to Eswatini citizens’ health information under newly signed R3.4billion financial support agreement (Swaziland News)

http://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=10854

eSwatini, US sign E4bn MoU for health (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/eswatini-us-sign-e4bn-mou-for-health/

UNDP and UNFPA launch bold country programmes

The United Nations Development Programme, 18 December 12025

SOURCE

Five-year Plans to Accelerate Eswatini’s Progress to Meeting the SDGs’ Targets by 2030

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have jointly launched their Country Programme Documents (CPDs) for 2026–2030, marking a renewed and strategic commitment to Eswatini’s sustainable and inclusive development.

The launch took place at the UN House in Mbabane and brought together policymakers, private sector leaders, government officials, civil society organisations, and development partners – demonstrating the broad-based support behind Eswatini’s national development agenda.

….

UNFPA’s 8th Country Programme reaffirms its commitment to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights, promoting gender equality, and strengthening population and development outcomes. A key priority is reducing teenage pregnancies by half by 2030 through expanded access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, particularly for adolescent girls and young women in underserved and hard-to-reach communities.

To achieve these outcomes, UNFPA will leverage innovation, strategic partnerships, and data-driven approaches to address persistent inequalities and accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, ensuring that no one is left behind.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.undp.org/eswatini/news/undp-and-unfpa-launch-bold-country-programmes

Senator calls for church regulation to restore moral order

By Siphosethu Dlamini, Times of eSwatini, 15 December 2025

SOURCE

MANZINI: Manzini Metropolitan Evangelical Church Elder and Senator Isaac Magagula has urged churches to embrace regulation to restore moral order and safeguard the integrity of religion.

Speaking during the church’s Pastor’s Appreciation Day in Manzini yesterday, Magagula said the growing wave of immoral behaviour now visible within religious spaces once known for peace and discipline could no longer be ignored.

Warning that the body of Christ was under serious attack from acts of misconduct and disorder, Magagula said: “The church and religion in this era are under severe attack from the devil’s schemes. We now see antichrist acts within churches — things once unheard of in environments meant to uphold social and spiritual order.”

He emphasised that his call was not an attempt to lobby for churches to fall under parliamentary regulation, despite his role as a legislator. “I am not speaking here as a parliamentarian, but as a senior citizen concerned about the moral direction of our nation,” he said. He expressed concern that acts such as gender-based violence, femicide, rape, passion-related crimes, cultism and power struggles were now surfacing within churches, threatening unity and dignity.

Magagula clarified that church regulation was not about government interference, but rather about establishing an effective framework to ensure accountability and harmony between churches and the State. “It is not about government poking its nose into church matters,” he explained. “It is about creating a self-regulatory structure that ensures churches function properly and contribute meaningfully to social order and democratic governance.”

He revealed that the issue of church accountability had been discussed several times in Parliament, focusing on curbing misconduct that brings disrepute to the church and undermines public trust.

Members of the church in song as they bring their offerings. (Courtesy pic)

To read more of this report, click here

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Senator+calls+for+church+regulation+to+restore+moral+order&yiphi=2190&bvhdgsj=News

‘Politicians’ pay-raise unsustainable, insensitive’

By Sibusiso Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 14 December 2025

SOURCE

The rise in politicians’ pay driven by the civil service salary review is financially unsustainable and out of step with the country’s economic realities, businessman and former senator Walter Bennett has said.

He is on that account, questioning whether the Royal Commission played its role in making recommendations regarding politicians’ benefit under Finance Circular No. 2 of 2023, and if they properly weighed the country’s capacity to carry the cost.

If implemented as set out in the Circular, each backbench member of Parliament will be entitled to an ex-gratia payment of just over E1 million at the end of the 12th Parliament in 2028, a figure equivalent to one year’s basic salary after the review.

Bennett said the projected payouts exposed a widening gap between political office-bearers and the economic circumstances faced by ordinary citizens and the broader public service, at a time when the economy is under strain and government finances are tight.

“This is not something that requires an economist to understand. You simply look at the state of the economy and ask how this level of remuneration can be justified or sustained going forward,” Bennett said in an interview.

Under the Circular, an MP (backbencher) currently earns an annual basic salary of E613 258, or E51 104.83 per month, based on the entry notch. Following the salary review, the monthly basic salary rises to E83 984.24, translating to an annual package of E1 007 810.88.

The ex-gratia payment, defined as a once-off payment equal to 12 months’ basic salary before tax, would, therefore, exceed E1 million per MP at the end of the parliamentary term.

The review alone increases the ex-gratia entitlement by E394 552.88 per backbencher.

With 79 backbenchers in a 103-member Parliament, which also includes 20 Cabinet ministers, two presiding officers and two deputy presiding officers, the projected cost for ex-gratia payments to backbench MPs alone stands at E79.6 million.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/politicians-pay-raise-unsustainable-and-insensitive/

Montigny Investments reaches historic agreement with Mashumi Shongwe’s FESWATU, no worker will earn less than R3500.00 per-month

By Bongiwe Dlamini, Swaziland News, 15 December, 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Montigny Investments has reached a historic agreement with the Federation of Swaziland Trade Union (FESWATU) whose President is Mashumi Shongwe, the successful negotiations will result to all workers of the forestry company earning not less than three thousand five hundred Rands (R3,500.00) per-month [about 210 US dollars].

Speaking during a thanksgiving event at Zombodze Emuva last week, the FESWATU President described the agreement with Montigny as historic adding that, it was reached without any pressure through a strike action, he applauded the forestry company for recognizing the importance of decent wages for workers.

“This is historic and demonstrates Montigny’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers. It’s not normal in the industry to see a company demonstrating commitment to negotiate and agree to increase salaries without any pressure,” he said.

On another note, Montigny has become one of the first companies in the country to agree to the R3,500.00 basic minimum wage advocated by among others, TUCOSWA, the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland.

FESWATU is not a member of TUCOSWA but positioning itself as a federation that “promotes peaceful engagement between workers and employers for possible settlements without any strike action”.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 907 – 12 December 2025

2025-12-12T04:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 907 – 12 December 2025

Commemoration of Human Rights Day: Land disputes dominate complaints at 46%

By Khulile Thwala, Times of eSwatini, 11 December 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Land disputes remain the country’s most pressing human rights issue, accounting for nearly half of all grievances lodged with the Eswatini Commission on Human Rights and Administration.

Commission representative Nelly Zwane said land issues alone constituted 46 per cent of all complaints received nationally. These ranged from forced evictions and boundary conflicts to disputes involving traditional authorities and strained relations between farm dwellers and landowners.

“We receive reports of land evictions and disputes on a daily basis,” she said. “Farm dwellers’ issues are constant, and most cases involve families contesting boundaries or raising concerns over processes handled by traditional structures.”

This was revealed during the commemoration of Human Rights Day held at the Mbabane Theatre Club yesterday, where experts, civil society and government representatives unpacked the country’s most persistent rights violations under the theme “Human rights: Our daily essentials.”

Civil society echoed these concerns. Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organisations (CANGO) Executive Director Thembinkosi Dlamini, speaking during the panel discussion, said the country’s colonial history continued to influence today’s land conflicts. He cited the Vuvulane farm dwellers dispute and the recent success story of the Mbondzela resettlement as longstanding examples of communities being displaced or inadequately compensated.

He criticised the lack of adherence to Section 9 of the Constitution, which mandates proper resettlement and compensation standards. “The land policy that is meant to regulate resettlement has been in drafting stages for close to 30 years,” he noted, adding that “Dutch law continues to override customary law in practice, leaving vulnerable people without adequate protection.”

The executive director further pointed out that major agricultural and infrastructural projects often left communities disconnected from the benefits. “Sugar cane plantations make millions, yet the communities relocated to make way for them remain underdeveloped years later,” he said.

He also lamented that courts were ‘not rising to the occasion’ in adjudicating land matters decisively, adding that judgments that could clarify what constitutes legal occupancy remained scarce.

To read more of this report, click here

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Commemoration+of+human+rights+day%3A+Land+disputes+dominate+complaints+at+46%25&yiphi=2146&bvhdgsj=News

Allow girls who can’t stop sex to use contraceptives – Mhlambanyatsi MP

By Joseph Zulu, Times of eSwatini Sunday, 7 December 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: A shocking youth crisis. Each year, at least 4 000 pupils fall pregnant and a considerable number of these are in rural areas like Lundzi. Yesterday, a gathering known as Eswatini Anti-teen Pregnancy Campaign took place at Lundzi, a town within Mhlambanyatsi Inkhundla, situated near the South African border.

The Anti-Teenage Pregnancy Campaign aims to reduce the number of teenage pregnancies in Eswatini, that are invariably imposing damage to, or even cause the stop of a female teenager’s education. It seeks to take the important messages out to the young residents of the 59 tinkhundla (constituencies) of the country, as well as assisting in reducing, even eliminating, the underlying causes that give rise to female vulnerability to careless sex.

Yesterday, the campaign, which was held at Mbuluzi High School exposed the alarming depth of challenges facing Eswatini’s young people, as community leaders, teachers, police officers and politicians called for urgent, coordinated action to confront the rising number of school-going girls who fall pregnant each year.

The gathering brought together hundreds of pupils, many of whom listened in silence as adults from different sectors painted a picture of the social pressures pushing children into early sexual activity.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Allow+girls+who+can%E2%80%99t+stop+sex+to+use+contraceptives+%E2%80%93+Mhlambanyatsi+MP&yiphi=2096&bvhdgsj=News

See also

No customary law allows sex with minors – judges (Times of eSwatini)

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=No+customary+law+allows+sex+with+minors+%E2%80%93+judges&yiphi=2144&bvhdgsj=News

eSwatini government moves to block underage children from accessing betting platforms

By Chidubem, Igaming Today, 9 December 2025

SOURCE

Eswatini has announced new steps to stop minors from entering online gambling spaces, with a plan that targets mobile wallet accounts often used to bypass age restrictions.

Tourism and Environmental Affairs Minister Jane Mkhonta‑Simelane told the House of Assembly that authorities are working alongside gaming operators and telecom companies to block secondary wallet numbers registered to children under 18.

She explained that many of these accounts were created by guardians on behalf of minors, giving them unintended access to betting platforms. According to the minister, the initiative is rooted in the Gaming Control Act of 2022 and reinforced by the Children’s Protection and Welfare Act of 2012, both of which place strong emphasis on responsible gambling.

Mkhonta‑Simelane told the House that the ministry is advancing new rules designed to strengthen responsible gambling.

She explained that the proposals include mandatory player-protection tools set out in the legislation and the creation of a rehabilitation fund that will require clear policy guidelines and proper financing.

“We will raise awareness on gambling addiction, its warning signs, and the support services available, through public education campaigns,” she said, according to the Eswatini Observer.

She confirmed that draft regulations under the Gaming Control Act have been completed and are now being reviewed by stakeholders. Once enacted, they are expected to bring consistency, transparency, and stronger oversight to the industry.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.igamingtoday.com/eswatini-government-moves-to-block-underage-children-from-accessing-betting-platforms/

Wages Council wants 15% pay hike for domestic workers

By Nokuphila Haji, eSwatini Observer, 10 December 2025

SOURCE

According to sources, employees represented by the Trade Union Congress of Eswatini (TUCOSWA) and the Federation of Eswatini Trade Unions (FESWATU) have submitted proposals for a 15% wage increment for all workers under this cadre.

These proposals were then submitted to the Wages Council and are expected to be submitted to the Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi in the next 30 days. The ministry will be welcoming written presentations on the proposals.

The domestic workers have also proposed an 8% increase for caregivers currently earning above the rates stipulated in the existing Gazette.
The source added that caregivers had further proposed a 10% increase in the Government Gazette for performing extra duties.

These proposals have not yet been finalised by the ministry. According to a document containing the new proposals, which was shared with this publication, sectors under the caregivers’ cadre are expected to receive improved salaries after the proposed increment.

Under the proposals, a cook is expected to earn E1 591 per month, which translates to E91.04 per day and E13.74 per hour. The council has proposed that caregivers earn E1 835.84 monthly, or E116.27 daily and E17.17 hourly. The document also indicates that a driver’s monthly salary will match that of a caregiver.

The proposals further show that a gardener, house attendant, laundress, children’s nurse and herdsman will earn E1 553.48 monthly, translating to E86.92 daily and E12.13 hourly. The council also proposes that a housemother be paid E2 058.89 monthly, with daily and hourly rates of E92.57 and E12.13 respectively.

A house aunt is proposed to receive E1 830.12 monthly, E83.11 daily and E12.13 hourly.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/wages-council-wants-15-pay-hike-for-domestic-workers/

HRF succeeds in UN petition: Swaziland called on to immediately release two former lawmakers

Human Rights Foundation media release, 4 December 2025

SOURCE

NEW YORK: The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) received a favorable opinion from the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (WGAD), finding that Swaziland’s (unilaterally renamed eSwatini by King Mswati III in 2018) detention of former lawmakers Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube is arbitrary and violates international human rights law.

Mabuza and Dube were arrested in July 2021 amid nationwide pro-democracy protests calling for an end to decades of absolute monarchical rule under Mswati. In their public speeches, Mabuza and Dube called for the democratic election of the country’s prime minister, urged the adoption of anti-corruption measures, and encouraged citizens to exercise their constitutional rights. The regime argued that their peaceful speeches triggered deadly riots during the demonstrations.

Mabuza and Dube were held in pretrial detention for three years. During that time, their bail applications were denied without legal basis, they were subjected to beatings by prison guards, and they were repeatedly denied the right to contact their lawyers. In July 2024, the High Court handed them heavy prison terms on trumped-up charges of terrorism, sedition, and murder related to deaths that occurred during a protest. Mabuza and Dube were sentenced to serve 25 and 18 years, respectively. In November 2025, Dube received a conditional pardon, but his ability to travel and communicate remains restricted. HRF brought the case of Mabuza and Dube before the WGAD in August 2024.

King Mswati’s repression of dissent has become increasingly brutal in recent years. The regime persecutes political dissidents, student activists, and human rights lawyers alike using arbitrary detention, torture, and extrajudicial killings. The king has gone so far as to threaten to unleash mercenary forces on those demanding democratic reforms.

In its decision, the WGAD emphasized that Mabuza and Dube were detained based on vague and broadly worded legislation, which enables the criminalization of the legitimate exercise of freedom of expression. The experts specifically condemned the use of provisions under Section 4 of the Sedition and Subversive Activities Act, 1938, which punishes anyone who intentionally brings into hatred or contempt or excites disaffection against the king or the government. The WGAD found that Dube and Mabuza were detained for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression, assembly, association, and participation in public affairs. It declared the murder charges pretextual, as the men were not present at the time of the deaths and the government presented no link between them. The experts concluded that Mabuza and Dube were targeted and discriminated against because of their calls for democratic reform.

“The WGAD’s opinion plays a crucial role in the international community’s reckoning with Swaziland’s dire human rights record,” said HRF Senior Legal Associate Venla Stang. “The situation in the small kingdom rarely makes international headlines, but this decision sends a strong signal to the Swazi regime: its human rights abuses will no longer escape international scrutiny.”

HRF urges the international community to hold the Swazi regime accountable for its crackdown on dissent and to stand in solidarity with Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube, who should be unconditionally released.

Trump’s deportations shake up eSwatini: A journey to the tiny African kingdom

By Nokukhanya Musi, El Pais International, 7 December 2025

SOURCE

A coalition of NGOs has challenged in court the deal in which the United States paid $5.1 million to the African country to take in migrants who were deported without a trial, some even after serving their sentences.

Pro-democracy activists in Eswatini demonstrate outside the U.S. embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, on September 19. Themba Hadebe (AP)

MBABANE: Nearly 100 people packed into the sweltering High Court chamber on an early October morning, in Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini, filling the wooden benches and spilling into the aisles. They had come to hear Judge Titus Mlangeni rule on whether accepting foreign deportees from the United States in exchange for millions of dollars violates the nation’s own constitution — a question that has consumed this landlocked kingdom, formerly known as Swaziland, for months.

The case, he declared, raised constitutional questions serious enough towarrant review by the Chief Justice and a full bench of judges. The full court met on November 3 and postponed its ruling to an indefinite date.

However, the fact that judges are considering the unconstitutionality of receiving deportees has been seen as a significant victory for the activists and lawyers who have spent months challenging a deportation agreement they say was signed in secret, bypassed Parliament, and turned their country into what one critic called “a dumping ground for America’s unwanted.”

Eswatini received $5.1 million from the U.S., as confirmed in mid-November by Neal Rijkenberg, the finance minister of the African nation, an absolute monarchy. The sum is considerable for this small country of 1.2 million inhabitants, where two-thirds of the population live below the national poverty line.

Human Rights Watch cited that figure in September and denounced that, in the agreement signed on May 14, Eswatini committed to accepting up to 160 deportees.

The first five — nationals of Vietnam, Laos, Yemen, Cubaand Jamaica — arrived in July at the maximum-security prison in Matsapha after being labeled violent offenders in the United States. A month later, a coalition of NGOs took the case to court, arguing that the agreement breached both Eswatini’s laws and the men’s due-process protections. They accused the monarchy-appointed government of effectively serving as an extension of U.S. immigration enforcement. In October, despite the pending legal case and growing public opposition, a second group of 10 people arrived. Only one deportee, Jamaican citizen Orville Isaac Etoria, has been able to return to his country.

The agreement has now spiraled into a full-blown constitutional crisis. Yet for the five deportees, who are at the core of the case, the ruling brought little immediate relief. They remain in a notoriously overcrowded facility — the occupancy rate of Eswatini’s penal system exceeds 171%, according to the World Prison Brief — with a record of human rights abuses that has been confirmed by the U.S. State Department. What’s more, they are being held without charge, unable to contest their detention and effectively trapped between two governments.

The first five men deported to the African country had been convicted of serious crimes in the United States, including homicide and child rape, and had served their sentences. But rather than being returned to their countries of origin, they were sent to Eswatini under an agreement that the government had never disclosed to its own citizens or Parliament.

The case has thrust this small African kingdom into the center of a broader controversy over the Trump administration’s third-country deportation program. Since July, the United States has sent more than 40 migrants to at least four African nations — including South Sudan, Rwanda, and Ghana. Rights organizations say the program circumvents due process by exiling migrants to states with poor human rights records.

Eswatini is one such country. The U.S. Department of State report cites cases of arbitrary detention, politically motivated killings, and torture and cruel treatment by law enforcement.

To read more of this report, click here

https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-07/trumps-deportations-shake-up-eswatini-a-journey-to-the-tiny-african-kingdom.html

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 906 – 5 December 2025

2025-12-05T03:30:00.002+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 906 – 5 December 2025

New HIV jab targets young women first

By Xolisile Sacolo, eSwatini Observer, 3 December 2025

SOURCE

Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula says young women and adolescent girls, who remain at the highest risk of new HIV infections will be the main target group for Eswatini’s new long-acting HIV prevention jab.

The much-awaited Lenacapavir (LEN) injectable PrEP is finally in the country. It was officially launched on Monday at Hhukwini, a major milestone in Eswatini’s fight against HIV/AIDS.

This long-acting injection is expected to be a true game changer, offering a powerful new option for protection.

Matsebula said protecting these priority groups was at the centre of the national HIV prevention strategy, noting that women and girls continued to carry a disproportionate share of new infections.

He said it offered a crucial opportunity to give them a discreet, long-term prevention method that fit their needs and daily realities. He described the jab as ‘a powerful and convenient tool’ for people who wanted reliable HIV protection without daily pills.

Eswatini is preparing to offer the long-acting injectable PrEP to more than 70 000 people. Matsebula said reaching the targeted people, especially young women and girls, would require strong collaboration between government, implementing partners and community organisations.

He emphasised that the ministry aimed to make sure every eligible person received accurate information, accessible services and proper follow-up support. Matsebula further noted that while the focus was on preventing new infections, maintaining stable treatment for people already living with HIV remained essential.

The introduction of long-acting PrEP is part of a broader national effort to strengthen community-level prevention and push the country toward achieving its 2030 HIV targets.

The minister also highlighted ongoing supply chain upgrades, saying these improvements reflected the ministry’s commitment to delivering better services. He said a reliable supply chain was crucial for ensuring access to lifesaving medicines and supporting HIV, TB and malaria programmes while preparing the system for new technologies such as the injectable PrEP.

“Eswatini’s achievements surpassing the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets with 98-98-98 show the impact of strong health systems,” he said, adding that gains in malaria control and TB treatment success rates further demonstrated the value of sustained investment.

He said the combination of tools like lenacapavir and stronger supply chains would help the country move faster in reducing HIV infections and improving health outcomes.

See also

EmaSwati rush for new HIV jab (Times of eSwatini)

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=EmaSwati+rush+for+new+HIV+jab&yiphi=2030&bvhdgsj=News

Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini wants eSwatini to reduce HIV new infections to zero

By Bongiwe Dlamini, Swaziland News, 1 December, 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini commemorated the World AIDS Day at Hhukwini Inkhundla on Monday by officially launching the new Lenacapavir Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevention injection.

Addressing the Nation, the PM said Eswatini “aspires to reduce HIV new infections” to zero adding that, “this year’s commemoration is not just a symbolic observance” but a reminder to safeguard the gains made in the HIV response and the need to confront emerging challenges.

“We cannot be comfortable when thousands of our young people are newly infected with HIV every year. As parents, leaders, communities and as a nation, we must stand together to protect our children and youth, so they can pursue their education and dreams without the burden of unplanned pregnancies, HIV infection and violence hanging over their future. Overcoming disruptions and transforming the AIDS response means strengthening prevention, promoting behaviour change, encouraging abstinence, faithfulness and responsible choices, and ensuring access to condoms, voluntary medical male circumcision, PrEP and life-saving treatment for all who need it,” said the PM as quoted by Government online platforms.

On another note, the Prime Minister described the new HIV prevention injection as an innovation that “brings Eswatini closer to the vision of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030”.

Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini with Health Minister Mduduzi Matsebula during the 2025 World AIDS Day Commemoration

Woman shot during unrest sues UEDF for E3.5m

By Kwanele Dlamini, eSwatini News, 29 November 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: A woman who was allegedly shot along with her boyfriend by soldiers during the civil unrest is suing government E3.5 million.

Megan Fourie of Qobonga, Mbabane has instituted proceedings in the High Court and cited the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) and attorney general as the first and second respondents, respectively. She is demanding E3 550 000 at nine per cent per annum calculated from the date of service of the summons to the date of final payment.

In the summons, she alleged that on November 14, 2022, around 12:30am, she was negligently and intentionally shot at, execution style, by members of the UEDF.

She stated that the incident occurred at Nkoyoyo, Mbabane, and involved approximately five members of the UEDF. At the time, Fourie submitted, the soldiers were allegedly driving in a black SUV motor vehicle.

The identities and ranks of the soldiers, as well as the registration number of the vehicle, are stated as being unknown to the plaintiff. Fourie told the court that she was in the company of her boyfriend, Muhamed Alusta, and that they were headed home to Nkoyoyo from a location in Ezulwini.

She pointed out that she was in no way engaged in illegal activity. The filed papers state that at the material time of the shooting, Fourie was not engaged in any criminal activity nor was she participating in any unlawful activity.

She was allegedly shot while inside the car with her hands held up. The summons further alleged that the UEDF members simply fired at the vehicle in which she was an occupant without asking any questions.

Fourie contended that the conduct of the soldiers on that date was unlawful, wrongful, intentional, unwarranted and unjustified in the circumstances.

Based on the principle of vicarious liability, the UEDF is cited as being vicariously liable for the conduct of its member or officers, who are alleged to have been acting within the course and scope of their employment at the time of the incident.

“At all material times of the shooting of the plaintiff, she was in the company of her boyfriend Muhamed Alusta and they were headed home at Nkoyoyo from Cuddle Puddle in Ezulwini.

“The said members of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force were acting within the cause and scope of their employment as members of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force.

SNAT to lobby MPs for GBV to be declared a disaster

By Nokuphila Haji, eSwatini Observer, 1 December 2025

SOURCE

The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) says it will be lobbying Members of Parliament to have gender-based violence (GBV) declared a national disaster, as many families continue to be torn apart by the scourge.

This was revealed by SNAT Gender and Human Rights Officer, Sifiso Vilakati, during a live address to members as the organisation marked the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on Saturday.

Vilakati said the organisation, which has over 13 000 members, opposed any form of violence, regardless of where it occurred. She added that the 16 Days of Activism was a global campaign observed annually from November 25 to December 10, culminating with Human Rights Day.

“The campaign is meant to push our governments to act against GBV, and in Eswatini the situation is worse because we receive daily media reports of people killing and injuring each other. We have a parliament that we, as SNAT, are asking to declare GBV a national disaster,” she said. She explained that if GBV was declared a national disaster, government would be able to intervene more effectively and invest resources into ending it.

She said SNAT would be approaching MPs elected by the people to lobby them to support the declaration this year, as many families were breaking apart and the number of child-headed households continued to grow.
“This is a national problem. We also have Convention C190, which Eswatini has still not ratified, yet it is aimed at preventing violence and harassment at work. This is where much of the violence occurs, and we are calling on government to ratify the convention so that it can be domesticated and used to curb workplace GBV,” she said.

SNAT Secretary General Lot Vilakati added that as a human rights organisation, they always hold a march against GBV. He said both the police and the Manzini Municipal Council had granted approval for the march, which would be open to everyone.
“We are all affected by abuse, whether in relationships, families, or the workplace,” he said.

Disability Inclusion – A Cost or Investment?

By Pinky Sithole, United Nations Development Programme, 3 December 2025

SOURCE

Every year on 03 December, the world pauses to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The 2025 theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” carries particular significance for Eswatini, where strengthening inclusion is essential to ensuring equal access to education, employment, and public services for persons with disabilities.

We talk about inclusion often, but when budgets are tight, one perspective keeps resurfacing: can we really afford it? The real question is whether we can afford not to. Reasonable accommodation is not a cost; it is an investment in human potential, productivity and progress.

According to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which Eswatini ratified in 2012, reasonable accommodation means making the necessary and appropriate adjustments that do not impose a disproportionate burden, so that persons with disabilities can participate fully and equally in all areas of life. It is about removing avoidable barriers, not providing special treatment.

In practice, reasonable accommodation can take many forms. It can involve physical and environmental changes that make spaces easier to navigate. It can include communication and information support, such as introducing easy to read formats for documents by using more visuals and less text, large fonts and simple language. This will enable people with visual impairment and learning disabilities to easily access the information. It may also mean administrative adjustments, like sharing agendas and minutes in advance or allowing additional time to review materials.

For many people, accommodation is simply about flexible ways of working. This might involve working from home, flexible hours or reshaping tasks to match individual abilities. For persons who are neurodivergent (people whose brains work differently), accommodations can include sensory-friendly environments, clear written instructions or predictable routines that reduce stress and enhance focus.

The belief that disability inclusion drains resources does not stand up to evidence. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has consistently found that most workplace accommodations are low-cost or no-cost, and that when costs do arise, they are usually an initial once-off expense such as a procuring a large-print keyboard or a screen reader licence for a staff member. According to a 2019-2022 survey by Job Accommodation Network, 53% of businesses reported productivity improvements after implementing accommodations.

While data is limited in Eswatini, regional findings show a similar pattern: the main challenges are often not financial but linked to limited awareness of what reasonable accommodation involves. The most expensive approach to accessibility is to address it only when problems arise such as introducing a ramp because one of the existing staff members suddenly using a wheelchair because of an accident. When inclusion is planned from the start, it avoids costly retrofits, supports stronger performance and saves money in the long run.

Exclusion, on the other hand, comes at a hefty price. This cost is collectively shared and ultimately falls on all of us. The World Bank estimates that excluding persons with disabilities from employment can cost a country between 3 and 7 percent of GDP. For Eswatini, this suggests potential losses of hundreds of millions of Emalangeni each year in foregone productivity, even though precise national figures are not yet available. The National Disability Plan of Action (2024–2028) confirms this pattern, highlighting lower labour force participation, higher unemployment and persistent barriers to skills development and decent work for persons with disabilities.

Exclusion weakens the entire economic and social system: the country loses productive capacity, families shoulder heavier financial and caregiving burdens, businesses miss out on valuable talent, and government collects less tax revenue while facing higher demand for social support. Over time, these pressures compound into slower growth, deeper inequality and reduced national resilience.

The loss of this productive labour implies increased social protection costs for families, communities and the state. Persons with disability who could work, but cannot work due to lack of investment in reasonable accommodation will have to fall back on social protection nets provided by their families, communities or the state.

Inclusion is smart economics. Ramps help parents with baby prams, captions help people in noisy rooms and flexible work helps staff balance family life. When systems are accessible, everyone benefits. That is why reasonable accommodation should be viewed as an economic multiplier, not just a tick-the-box activity. It supports the development goals Eswatini is pursuing.

Sustainability is about more than clean energy or balanced budgets; it is about ensuring that every citizen has the chance to contribute to the country’s progress. A society is strongest when no one is left behind. By investing in inclusion, Eswatini strengthens its economy, its communities and its long-term development path.

SWAZI MEDIA COMMENTARY

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 905 – 28 November 2025

2025-11-28T05:00:00.002+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 905 – 28 November 2025

One Billion Rising and partners officially launch 2026 Campaign and 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence

By Bongiwe Dlamini, Swaziland News, 26 November, 2025

SOURCE

MATSAPHA: One Billion Rising Eswatini, together with partners, officially launched the One Billion Rising 2026 and kicked the sixteen (16) Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with a bold Street & Factory Campaign at Union Market-Matsapha this week, taking the message of justice, safety, and dignity directly to the affected people.

The One Billion Rising 2026 theme; “RISING FOR OUR BODIES, OUR EARTH, OUR FUTURE,” speaks to our collective power and responsibility.

Speaking to this Swaziland News this week, Colani Hlatjwako, the One Billion Rising Coordinator said during the official launch, women danced, spoke, listened, and shared stories of strength with factory workers.

“We raised awareness about GBV and stood in solidarity with survivors whose voices continue to fuel this movement. The partners included: Queer Women’s Network, Youth and Women Up, Matsapha Town Council, Abandoned Voice Org, Journey of Hope for Women and Girls Eswatini and University students”, said the One Billion Rising Eswatini Coordinator.

One Billion Rising, partners officially launch 2026 campaign and 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence (pic: supplied)

EU helping to address mental health, gender inequality issues in eSwatini

By Press and information team of the Delegation to eSwatini, 26 November 2025

SOURCE

Disadvantaged youth and women will be at the centre of a newly-launched project, ‘Khetsimphilo – Choose Life’, a programme that seeks to address issues of mental health and gender inequality in Eswatini.

The project, co-funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society and the Finnish Red Cross, is worth EUR 4.2 million (approx. SZL 84 million) and will be implemented for the next three years in all four regions of the country, covering 20 constituency centres.

Launched on 26 November 2025 in Mbabane, the project’s main objectives are to empower these disadvantaged youth and women to improve their economic and social inclusion; strengthen community-level mental health services and psychosocial support; promote gender equality through reduced school dropouts, support youth reintegration, GBV prevention and response, sexual and reproductive health and rights awareness. In addition, the project will support the inclusion of marginalised groups such as persons with disability as well as foster community ownership and resilience through inclusive, locally grounded approaches.

Speaking during this launch, EU Head of Cooperation, Eva-Maria Engdahl, said this project was part of the EU’s current partnership with Eswatini covering the period: 2021 – 2027, which focuses on human development and social inclusion.

She said the project will be implemented under the empowerment of disadvantaged youth and women in vulnerable situations, one of the two components of the partnership.

Many attendees during the launch, including the office of the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM), welcomed and appreciated the project, saying it has come at the right time when many Emaswati, particularly the youth, were facing a lot of mental issues. Statistics suggests that at least 400 000 young people in Eswatini are not involved in any form of economic activity, hence they may be facing mental health challenges.

Woman sentenced to five years for abortion

By Sibusiso Tsabedze, eSwatini Observer, 26 November 2025

SOURCE

A 30-year-old woman of Mankayane has been sentenced to five years imprisonment after she was found guilty of unlawfully terminating a pregnancy.

Lenhle Ngwenya appeared before Principal Magistrate Fikile Nhlabatsi at the Mbabane Magistrate’s Court, where she entered a plea of guilty to the charge of concealment of birth. Her attorney confirmed the plea and informed the court that the accused wished to accept responsibility for her actions.

According to the charge sheet, on November 2 at Fonteyn, Ngwenya, who is not a medical practitioner, wrongfully and unlawfully terminated a pregnancy by using an unknown substance, thereby contravening the provisions of the law relating to abortion.

Ngwenya was first brought to court shortly after her arrest and was granted bail fixed at E2 000 under the normal bail conditions.

During yesterday’s appearance, the Crown applied to hand in the RSP 88 form as evidence and subsequently closed its case. Her attorney also moved an application to close the defence case, as Ngwenya did not wish to dispute any of the facts.

During mitigation, her attorney pleaded for leniency, highlighting Ngwenya’s circumstances and cooperation with the court.

“The accused pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and did not waste the court’s time, which shows remorse,” the attorney submitted.

He further noted that Ngwenya is a first-time offender, a mother of three young children who depend entirely on her, and she is currently unemployed. The attorney also conveyed the accused’s assurance that she would not commit a similar offence in future.

After considering the submissions, Principal Magistrate Nhlabatsi sentenced Ngwenya to five years imprisonment with an option of E5 000 fine. Immediately after sentencing, the attorney applied for the E2 000 bail previously paid to be converted as part of the fine. The court granted the request.

Govt sets tight budget ceilings as ministries prepare for budget

By Khulile Thwala, Times of Swaziland, 25 November 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Government has set strict budget ceilings for all ministries and departments in the upcoming 2026/27 national budget.

This signals a year of controlled expenditure as the country seeks to balance service delivery with fiscal discipline. The ceilings, issued through the latest Budget Call Circular, outline how much each ministry is allowed to allocate across wage, non-wage and transfer lines and the figures show both continuity and tightened prioritisation across sectors.

The Budget Call Circular is traditionally the official instruction manual for ministries as they begin drafting budget proposals. It spells out ceilings, policy priorities and reminders on compliance with procurement and reporting standards. According to the circular, this year it continues to emphasise fiscal prudence, with ministries encouraged to ‘focus on core mandates’ and avoid unnecessary spending. Meanwhile, as has become the norm in recent years, the Ministry of Education and Training is expected to receive the largest share of funding, with a ceiling of E4.39 billion.

The bulk of this over E3.4 billion, is allocated to wages, mainly for teachers and support staff, while transfers amount to E860.6 million.

However, education officials are expected to maintain strict financial management, particularly in non-wage areas, which remain considerably lower than wage costs. Ministries have been instructed to ensure that spending plans account for operational realities without creating new financial obligations. Furthermore, the Ministry of Health is the second-highest as service pressures rise. With a ceiling of E2.98 billion, the circular reveals that E1.14 billion has been allocated for wages, while a substantial E1.41 billion is earmarked for non-wage expenditure, reflecting the ministry’s heavy reliance on supplies, pharmaceutical needs and operational costs. The health sector also receives E417.4 million in transfers. This allocation comes at a time when health facilities continue to face pressure from high demand, supply shortages and ongoing reform needs.

Businessman targets eSwatini journalists with $9.9M lawsuit

By Micah Reddy, ICIJ, 20 November 2025

SOURCE

The founding director of Eswatini’s Farmers Bank has accused Swazi Bridge, a news outlet operating in exile, of defamation in a nearly $10 million lawsuit press freedom advocates have labelled “abusive.”

In the lawsuit, Farmers Bank and its founder, John Asfar, claim that Swazi Bridge published a series of defamatory articles about alleged irregularities in the acquisition of the bank’s licence “with absolutely no evidence” and “without hearing the Plaintiffs’ side.”

Asfar is a real estate developer and the former owner of the Canadian hotel chain Travellers Inn, which filed for bankruptcy in 2009. He featured in ICIJ’s 2024 Swazi Secrets investigation, a collaboration with seven media partners based on a leaked trove of documents from the Eswatini Financial Intelligence Unit.

Asfar has been at the center of a battle for control of Farmers Bank, which struggled to get off the ground amid a tussle with the Central Bank of Eswatini over its license and alleged political pressure to force the regulator’s hand. Swazi Secrets revealed that officials at the central bank were concerned about who ultimately controlled the new venture and its source of funds.

Swazi Bridge’s reporting, published between 2023 and 2025, includes details of the same licensing dispute. Asfar has accused the outlet of “exhibiting an ulterior motive” and seeking to prevent Farmers Bank from operating in the tiny landlocked country, according to court records.

In a June letter, sent less than two months after the lawsuit was filed at a court in Eswatini’s capital of Mbabane, lawyers for Asfar and Farmers Bank proposed a settlement in which ownership of Swazi Bridge would be transferred to their clients. They also demanded the outlet retract the series of articles.

The lawyers warned that if Swazi Bridge did not agree to those terms, they would seek an injunction “followed by other punitive relief and costs.” They also threatened to have Swazi Bridge investigated for “domestic and/or foreign terrorism,” claiming “the commercial banking sector is a matter of national security.”

Swazi Bridge’s lawyers rejected the settlement terms, writing: “Our client would like to make it unequivocally clear that it is not for sale and will not, under any circumstances, surrender its institutional identity, editorial independence, or ownership rights.”

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.icij.org/investigations/swazi-secrets/businessman-targets-eswatini-journalists-with-9-9m-lawsuit/

Citizens say climate change is making life in eSwatini worse, demand stronger action from government, developed countries

Afrobarometer news release, 24 November 2025

SOURCE

Among nearly half of Emaswati who are aware of climate change, most say it is making life in their country worse, a new Afrobarometer survey reveals. Large majorities call for immediate action from the government and developed countries to limit its effects.

Nearly half of climate-change-aware citizens assign primary responsibility for fighting climate change to rich or developed countries, while roughly one-fourth say their own government must take the lead.

Among all respondents, more than eight in 10 express support for pressuring rich countries to provide resources to help Eswatini deal with changes in weather conditions. Large majorities of citizens endorse investing in wind and solar technologies, even if it increases the price of electricity, and in infrastructure to increase resilience to floods and droughts.

In substantial numbers, Emaswati report having to adjust their lives in response to changing weather patterns in the past five years, including about three in 10 who say they have had to use less water or change water sources, change the types of crops they plant or the foods they eat, and reduce or reschedule outdoor work.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 904 – 21 November 2025

2025-11-21T04:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 904 – 21 November 2025

eSwatini is the first African country to get twice-yearly HIV prevention shot

The Associated Press, 18 November 2025

SOURCE

HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP): Eswatini on Tuesday became the first African country to receive lenacapavir, the first twice-yearly HIV prevention injection hailed by global health officials as a game-changer in the fight against a virus that has killed tens of millions of people across the continent.

Developed by Gilead Sciences, lenacapavir has demonstrated near-total protection in clinical studies. Its rollout, initially planned for 10 high-risk African countries, is part of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, in partnership with the Global Fund. By 2027, the initiative aims to benefit at least 2 million people in those countries.

Daniel O’Day, chair and CEO of Gilead Sciences, described the Eswatini rollout as “extraordinary” because “it’s the first time in history that a new HIV medicine is reaching a country in sub-Saharan Africa in the same year as approval of the United States” and because Eswatini “is the country with the highest incidence of HIV in the world.” The U.S. approved the drug in June.

The United States, whose deep cuts to foreign aid this year under President Donald Trump have severely impacted Africa’s health programs, initially planned to distribute 250,000 doses this year to the 10 countries. Zambia also received its first shipment Tuesday, while Gilead seeks regulatory authority in Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

That was increased to 325,000 due to “early demand signs,” Brad Smith, senior advisor for the Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy, told journalists.

The U.S. government has noted that over 25 million people across Africa are living with HIV.

In Eswatini, a tiny kingdom in southern Africa, about 6,000 high-risk people are set to benefit from the drug’s initial rollout, primarily to prevent HIV transmission from mothers to newborns. Home to roughly 1.2 million people, Eswatini currently has over 200,000 people living with HIV, with most receiving treatment funded by PEPFAR, Smith said.

To read more of this report, click here

https://wtop.com/world/2025/11/eswatini-is-the-first-african-country-to-get-twice-yearly-hiv-prevention-shot/

United Nations Human Rights Council Working Group condemns eSwatini Judiciary, Judge Mumcy Dlamini’s ruling convicting pro-democracy MPs

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 18 November, 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: The ‘ruling’ delivered by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Working Group has contextually condemned the conviction of pro-democracy Members of Parliament (MPs) Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube while ‘directing’ the eSwatini Government to release them within six (6) months from the date of the ruling.

But King Mswati has released only one (1) MP Mthandeni Dube after tricking him to apologise through Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Prince Simelane, “efforts are being made by Prince Lindani to convince MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza to apologize and be released as well”.

The pro-democracy MPs were arrested and subsequently slapped with politically motivated terrorism charges merely for demanding democracy in the tiny Kingdom ruled by King Mswati as an absolute Monarch.

But the King uses draconian laws to suppress dissenting views and thrash calls for democratic reforms in a country where political parties are banned, human rights defenders are arrested, tortured or even killed for demanding democracy.

In its ruling dated 15th October 2025, the United Nations Human Rights Council Working Group narrated the events leading to the MPs conviction and further condemned the manner in which the matter was handled by the eSwatini High Court.

“The source states that on 25 July 2021, approximately 20 police officers arrested Mr. Dube in his home for allegedly committing a terrorist act in breach of section 5 (1) of the Suppression of Terrorism Act, 2008. A similar number of police officers arrested Mr. Mabuza for contravening regulation 4 of the Disaster Management (Coronavirus COVID-19) Regulations, 2020, after barricading the gate to his office and threatening to shoot him unless he surrendered. According to the source, on 26 July 2021, the two men were charged on the basis of the two aforementioned laws, for inciting people to revolt against the State, which allegedly led to riots around the country, causing loss of life, injuries and destruction of property. Mr. Mabuza’s coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related charge was brought because on 5 June 2021, he had allegedly failed to keep a register and ensure the sanitization of the participants of a meeting he had convened,” reads the ruling in part.

To read more of this report, click here

http://swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=10616

See also

Authorities must unconditionally release Mthandeni Dube and Bacede Mabuza (Amnesty International)

https://www.amnestyusa.org/press-releases/eswatini-authorities-must-unconditionally-release-mthandeni-dube-and-bacede-mabuza/

eSwatini confirms receiving over $5m from US to accept deportees

Agence France-Press (AFP), 17 November 2025

SOURCE

Eswatini has confirmed for the first time that it had received more than $5m from the United States to accept dozens of people expelled under Washington’s aggressive mass deportation drive.

The tiny southern African kingdom has taken in 15 men since Donald Trump’s administration struck largely secretive deals with at least five African countries to accept migrants under a third-country deportation programme fiercely criticised by rights groups.

A document revealed by Human Rights Watch in September and seen by AFP said Eswatini agreed to take 160 deportees in exchange for $5.1m to “build its border and migration management capacity”.

Questioned in parliament about the arrangement, the finance minister, Neal Rijkenberg, confirmed the government had received the $5.1m.

“We were told it was for the US deportees after we enquired,” he said, adding the ministry had been kept in the dark throughout the process.

The first group of five men arrived in July aboard a chartered US military plane, with a second batch received in early October.

Washington branded some of them “depraved monsters” convicted of crimes including child rape and murder.

They are being held without charge in Eswatini’s maximum-security Matsapha correctional centre, notorious for detaining political prisoners, according to their lawyers.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/17/eswatini-5-m-dollars-us-deportees

Painting hope: How eSwatini’s students cultivate drought resilience through art

By Nate Engle, Lara Loske-Garcia, Khulekani Msweli, Sarah A. Daggett, World Bank Blogs, 13 November 2025

SOURCE

Students at Ndabazezewe High School in Eswatini arrange their canvasses to create a large mosaic mural. Photo: Tribe Studios / World Bank

In the village of Ngomane, Eswatini, behind the local primary school, sits a small wetland. A hand-painted green flag, planted at the center of it, dances in the breeze, announcing its presence and grandeur. A young girl in a green and white gingham school smock stands beside this wetland, reciting a poem: “I am a wetland, a treasure of grace. In the heart of Eswatini, my sacred space... .”

This performance, the flag, and other creative expressions—mosaic murals, conservation flags, and “seed bombs”—were all part of the Art Never Dries student workshops, a project funded by the World Bank Group and co-designed with the government of Eswatini and Eswatini-based teaching artist Khulekani Msweli. Together, we aimed to raise awareness and foster community connections around the experience of drought in Southern Africa.

The Kingdom of Eswatini is no stranger to drought, and in fact, its government has been preparing for it over the past decade. In 2015-16, a historic drought caused widespread destruction, consuming 19% of annual government expenditure, a devastating 7% of the country’s GDP.

This drought was a wake-up call for many countries in the region. But in Eswatini, it sparked a transformative journey. The government, through the newly founded National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), recognized the urgent need for a proactive approach and launched one of the most comprehensive programs of drought resilience investments on the continent. With the support of the World Bank Group, through the Eswatini Water Supply and Sanitation Access Project, NDMA implemented a wide range of measures that are fortifying the country against the potential risks of drought. The country has made significant strides. From strengthening water infrastructure to developing a drought early warning system that integrates indigenous knowledge and citizen science, Eswatini is building a future where communities are better prepared for climate shocks.

To celebrate and amplify these efforts, we launched Art Never Dries, a pilot community art project that invited students to creatively explore drought resilience. During the five-day workshops, students at Ngomane Primary School and Ndabazezwe High School participated in programming focused on water conservation, traditional ecological knowledge, and the power of community action. Community elders joined the workshops to share indigenous knowledge on drought monitoring and resilience building, enriching the experience for everyone involved.

The final products are a sight to behold.

To read more of this report, click here

https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/water/painting-hope--how-eswatini-s-students-cultivate-drought-resilie

SNAT demands increased education funding

By Joseph Zulu, eSwatini News, 15 November 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) has intensified its national campaign calling on government to ‘Go Public, Fund Education’, arguing that years of stagnant funding have pushed the country’s public schooling system into crisis.

Yesterday, teachers held a campaign characterised by a march. They gathered at a busy junction on the Mbabane–Manzini Highway, in the presence of police officers stationed at various points in the town centre.

Teachers from all four regions — Hhohho, Manzini, Shiselweni and Lubombo — assembled to voice frustration over what they describe as chronic underfunding, poor infrastructure and declining learning standards.

The teachers’ body initially gathered to set out its demands before heading to the Ministry of Education and Training to deliver a memorandum of understanding (MoU). The MoU was presented as a formal statement of the sector’s collective grievances and expectations.

Speakers from regional branches painted a grim picture of conditions in their schools. In Lubombo, SNAT members said government had failed to keep pace with rising costs, insisting that increased investment was long overdue. Representative Sifiso Mabuza said the sector had been left behind for far too long, calling for “meaningful financial commitment towards public education.”

In Manzini, Ntuthuko Mamba criticised government for expecting teachers to carry out responsibilities that were not matched with adequate funding. He noted that educators were being asked to deliver elements of the new curriculum, including Cultural Arts, without the resources required to teach them properly. “We cannot teach children to dance if there is no funding for proper education,” he said.

From the Shiselweni Region came concerns about widening inequalities across schools. Representatives warned that poor funding risked forcing children out of school as institutions struggled to cover basic operational costs. They also stressed the need for teachers to be compensated fairly, saying current conditions were unsustainable.

The Hhohho Region echoed these concerns, calling the situation a national and international issue. Speakers argued that the country was lagging behind global education standards, with stagnating funding failing to match escalating costs of commodities and school supplies.

The Swaziland Association of School Administrators (SASA) added its voice, emphasising that many schools were unable to pay support staff or maintain facilities. Recording Secretary Terence Nxumalo said it was unacceptable that some schools functioned like businesses, charging fees for services such as water because of insufficient government allocations. He also noted disparities in Grade programmes, saying some schools were at a disadvantage and urged government to standardise support.

Parents also joined the call for reform. Cedric Chirwa, President of the Eswatini Schools Committee and Parents Association (ESCAPA), said quality education is a constitutional right.

He criticised government for failing to ensure equal access, noting that children of senior officials often attend well‑resourced private schools while public institutions struggle.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 903 – 14 November 2025

2025-11-14T04:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 903 – 14 November 2025

US deportations like a kidnapping, says eSwatini lawyer

AFP, 7 November 2025

SOURCE

Leading Eswatini human rights lawyer Sibusiso Nhlabatsi likens the shadowy US expulsions of 15 men to his country, a tiny kingdom in southern Africa, to kidnappings.

Since the first five deportees were flown from the United States on a military plane in July, authorities have blocked the lawyer from visiting them at the high-security prison where they are held.

Another 10 arrived in October and had also reached out, via their relatives, for assistance, the lawyer told AFP in an interview.

The expulsions are part of the Trump administration’s crackdown on migrants which has seen scores removed to countries in Africa and Central America.

“Eswatini finds itself participating in what I can call human trafficking or kidnapping because you cannot have these third-party state deportees being housed (here) while denying them access to lawyers,” Nhlabatsi said.

“They are far from their families, so their relatives cannot come here, yet they are being denied a basic right,” he said.

Authorities have released few details about the deportees in Eswatini, who are from diverse countries including Vietnam, Laos and Cuba. One -- a Jamaican -- was repatriated in September.

After being refused access by prison authorities, Nhlabatsi turned to the High Court which in early October agreed that local lawyers should be allowed to visit the detainees.

But the government appealed the ruling and “that access has not yet been facilitated,” said Nhlabatsi, who is in his mid-40s.

To read more of this report, click here

https://iol.co.za/news/africa/2025-11-07-us-deportations-like-a-kidnapping-says-eswatini-lawyer/

See also

How a tiny African absolute monarchy can play a ‘vital role’ in US national security: expert (Fox News, US)

https://www.foxnews.com/politics/how-tiny-african-absolute-monarchy-can-play-vital-role-us-national-security-expert

Inside the eSwatini ‘jungle’ prison holding US deportees

By AFP, 7 November 2025

SOURCE

Few places in the small African kingdom of Eswatini have a more feared reputation than the Matsapha Correctional Centre, a high-security sprawl of concrete and rust outside the capital, Mbabane.

“It’s like a jungle,” a former detainee told AFP of the prison that is holding 14 men deported from the United States in the Trump administration’s crackdown on migrants.

For decades, the prison has embodied the repressive policies of the southern African nation, routinely used to silence critics and pro-democracy activists.

Now, as the United States expels foreign nationals, the prison has an additional and just as troubling role, lawyers say.

Africa’s last absolute monarchy has agreed to accept up to 160 US deportees in exchange for $5.1 million to strengthen its border and migration systems, according to a deal seen by AFP.

“Life is not easy in there,” said former detainee Elvis Vusi Mazibuko, who spent more than two decades at Matsapha on robbery and car theft convictions.

“It’s survival of the fittest,” the soft-spoken 64-year-old told AFP, recalling tensions flaring over minor disputes in cramped cells.

The first five US deportees were jailed at the prison in July, with one later repatriated to his native Jamaica.

Washington branded them “depraved monsters” convicted of crimes including child rape and murder. Lawyers told AFP they had already served their time in the United States.

Ten more arrived in October, according to the Eswatini government, which says it intends to repatriate them all.

They are being held without charge and access to legal counsel, according to an AFP investigation.

Washington has also sent deportees to other African countries such as Ghana, Rwanda and South Sudan.

A veteran prison warden told AFP there was unease over the US deportees.

“We haven’t been trained to handle prisoners like these,” he said on condition of anonymity. “We don’t have the equipment either.”

“If America couldn’t keep them, what can a mere Swaziland do?” he asked, using the landlocked country’s former name.

Matsapha is divided neatly between medium- and maximum-security wings.

New blocks funded by the deal with Washington, and where the US deportees are held, are on the minimum-security side, another officer said.

Unlike the older blocks where inmates share toilets in dormitories of bunk beds in rows, the new cells come with individual bathrooms and mounted televisions. The walls are transparent, allowing for constant surveillance.

There are concerns that the new wing could also be used to house political dissenters.

“We are a country that does not foster political participation,” said lawyer Mzwandile Masuku, who has challenged the deportations in court.

“We will find more Swazis being accommodated in these newly constructed structures than addressing the problems that we have,” he said.

To read the full report, click here

https://iol.co.za/news/world/2025-11-07-inside-the-eswatini-jungle-prison-holding-us-deportees/

‘Titimela’ threaten development, sanitation, promote crime

By Mnelisi Dlamini, Times of eSwatini, 10 November 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: The rapid rise of informal ‘titimela’ settlements is creating major development, crime and health challenges across the country.

The mushrooming of informal one-room houses, commonly known as titimela, in and around the country’s industrial areas has become one of Eswatini’s most pressing development challenges.

These unplanned structures have spread rapidly around Matsapha, Ezulwini, Sidvokodvo and parts of Manzini’s peri-urban areas like KaShali, Nhlambeni, Sicelwini, Makholweni and Ticantfwini. They are reshaping orderly commercial landscapes into congested, unregulated settlements.

What began as affordable housing for low-income factory, manufacturing and retail workers has evolved into a national problem frustrating town councils, chiefs and government ministries.

Local authorities report that the titimela are multiplying rapidly, with some areas witnessing overnight construction of makeshift dwellings built too close together and often without sanitation.

“We are seeing the birth of unplanned mini-towns around our industrial hubs. These structures are not part of any approved layout plan, making it extremely difficult to provide essential services such as water, sewerage and roads,” said one Matsapha council representative.

Government and utility companies are already feeling the effects. Utilities are facing these challenges as they seek to improve service delivery in places like Matsapha, where some structures are encroaching on the road, posing a threat to future expansion of the road network as well.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=%E2%80%98Titimela%E2%80%99+threaten+development%2C+sanitation%2C+promote+crime&yiphi=1748&bvhdgsj=News

eSwatini’s youth and women farmers thrive under FAO-led resilience project

FAO Regional Office for Africa, 7 November 2025

SOURCE

From the vegetable fields of Luve to the highlands of Nkhaba, Eswatini’s youth and women farmers are writing a new chapter in the country’s agricultural story. Supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) through the Technical Cooperation Project (TCP/ESW/3903), young smallholders are shifting from subsistence to commercial production, building resilience against climate shocks, and accessing new markets through innovation.

In partnership with the Government of Eswatini and the National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard), FAO is helping farmers adopt protected agriculture technologies, such as shade nets and greenhouses, that safeguard crops from harsh weather, reduce losses, and allow year-round production. The initiative falls under FAO’s One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) approach, which promotes sustainable production and value chain development for strategic crops.

“Our collaboration with the Government and NAMBoard is transforming smallholder farming into a viable business that sustains livelihoods and supports national food security,” said Cuthbert Kambanje, FAO Subregional Agrofood Systems Investment Policy Support Consultant.

Through the project, youth and women-led cooperatives have been trained in modern horticultural practices, marketing, and quality standards. Many have since been absorbed by NAMBoard’s commercial supply chains, supplying supermarkets and export buyers with high-quality produce such as peppers and lettuce.

In Nkhaba, Hhohho region, a youth-led cooperative demonstrates the success of this approach. “Protected agriculture allows us to produce even during dry spells. We no longer fear losing everything to drought,” said a local farmer proudly displaying her harvest of bell peppers.

The project also strengthens extension services through NAMBoard, ensuring continuous technical support for smallholders. The results have been transformative, enhanced food security, improved household incomes, and empowered youth who now see agriculture as a dignified and profitable career.

FAO’s work in Eswatini supports the country’s broader goals under Agenda 2030 and Vision 2022, particularly in achieving SDG 2 – Zero Hunger. By focusing on market access and climate-smart production, the initiative is building resilience and economic opportunity for rural communities. Turning partnership into progress.

A section of unplanned housing located between Eteni and Logoba in Matsapha. (Courtesy pic)

Running for nothing: the cruel arithmetic of unemployment in eSwatini

Comment by Eugene Wa-Dube, Swati Newsweek, 12 November, 2025

SOURCE

In a country where youth unemployment hovers at catastrophic levels, logic and fairness - not corruption - should guide every decision that touches the lives of the young.

Yet, the recent spectacle in Eswatini where hundreds of young men and women in different tinkhundla/constituencies were invited for recruitment in the army, by undergoing a number of tests including physical tests - such as running for three kilometers or so - contesting for a mere three available positions in the army - is a sobering reminder of how far we have strayed from reason and justice.

Hundreds of young people. Three posts. Those numbers alone tell a painful story. They tell of a nation where opportunity has become so rare that even the faintest whisper of a job summons hundreds to queue under the blazing sun. They tell of desperation so deep that our youth will run, sweat, and strain - not for glory, but for a chance, however small and hopeless, to escape the suffocating grip of unemployment.

Let’s be clear: no one questions the right of the army to recruit. But recruitment must serve a purpose beyond public humiliation. Inviting close to a thousand hopefuls for only three vacancies is not recruitment; it is emotional cruelty disguised as national service. It is the conversion of hope into a spectator sport - a televised reminder that in Eswatini, the dream of dignified work has become a privilege for the few.

The logic behind such an exercise is deeply flawed. In an economy struggling to create jobs, such spectacles only expose the failure to plan and prioritize. They reveal a state more comfortable showcasing scarcity than addressing it. What exactly is achieved when hundreds of young people exhaust themselves in blistering summer heat in a contest whose outcome was always predetermined by mathematics - or something else like nepotism, cronyism, connections, etc?

Beyond the numbers lies the moral question. Fairness demands that opportunities be distributed transparently and realistically. How can it be fair to raise expectations among so many, knowing only three per Inkhundla will succeed?

Worse, what confidence can the public have in the process, when rumours persist that selections are often influenced by personal connections, nephew, cronyism or political proximity rather than merit? When meritocracy collapses, disillusionment takes its place - and that is a dangerous currency in any society.

Eswatini’s youth are not lazy. They are not entitled. They are, in fact, the most underutilized resource this nation has. They have shown time and again that given a chance - whether in the arts, entrepreneurship, or community service - they rise to the occasion. But they need a system that values their energy, not one that exploits their desperation.

True patriotism today would mean designing programs that absorb this restless potential into nation-building. We need youth cooperatives in agriculture, technology incubators, local infrastructure projects, and skills training centres that produce doers, not job-seekers. Instead of summoning a thousand bodies for three uniforms, why not summon a thousand minds to build the industries of tomorrow?

This episode is not merely about the army. It is about the kind of leadership we tolerate - leadership that prefers managing the optics of scarcity rather than confronting its causes. When the state uses hope as a prop, it erodes public trust. When it treats desperation as entertainment, it undermines dignity. EmaSwati are humans - not objects of derision to be as taken advantage of just because they are desperate.

Eswatini’s future cannot be built on spectacles of hopelessness - corruption. It must be built on deliberate, inclusive, and humane economic planning. Anything less is an insult to the generation we claim to be grooming for tomorrow.

That's the honest and unadulterated truth. Can this anomaly be fixed before the ticking youth unemployed bomb explodes, blowing everyone and everything in its way to pieces?

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 902 – 7 November 2025

2025-11-07T04:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 902 – 7 November 2025

eSwatini frees pro-democracy leader after four years

By Agence France Presse (AFP), 4 November 2025

SOURCE

A prominent former opposition Eswatini lawmaker was freed Tuesday after being pardoned following more than four years in prison over 2021 pro-democracy protests that rattled Africa's last absolute monarchy.

The landlocked kingdom is ruled by King Mswati III, who has held the throne since 1986 and wields unchecked power, facing no meaningful challenge to his authority.

Mthandeni Dube was released from the high-security Matsapha Correctional Centre, 30 kilometres (20 miles) from the capital, where 14 men deported from the United States as part of its crackdown on immigrants were also being held.

Dube was arrested in July 2021 alongside fellow MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza for inciting unrest during protests calling for democratic reforms, which were violently suppressed by security forces and left dozens dead.

“I am happy that the King has released me,” Dube said at the low-key ceremony where 11 other prisoners -- nine men and two women -- were also freed.

The group, all dressed in orange prison uniforms, stood quietly as their release was announced.

Officials said the freed inmates would remain under the supervision of the correctional services and would not be allowed to make public speeches or join protests.

“Only today can they entertain the media, and from tomorrow, none of them is expected to meet journalists,” said Commissioner General Lomakhosini Dlamini.

Mabuza, who was sentenced to 25 years, did not apply for a pardon, correctional services spokesman Baphelele Kunene told AFP.

Human Rights Watch last week decried a lack of accountability for the killings during the 2021 protest.

“The security forces also shot indiscriminately at protesters and passers-by with live ammunition, killing scores of protesters and injuring hundreds more, including children,” it said in a 26-page report.

Yet, “it is appalling that more than four years later, the victims and survivors are living with the consequences of the brutality they suffered without any remedies for their rights violations,” said HRW Africa researcher Nomathamsanqa Masiko-Mpaka.

Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, is the last absolute monarchy in Africa and political parties are banned.

King Mswati enjoys flaunting his wealth, yet he rules over one of the poorest countries in the world, where more than half of its 1.2 million inhabitants live in poverty.

The 57-year-old can veto any legislation, appoints the prime minister and cabinet, and is constitutionally above the law.

Mthandeni Dube

See also

Mthandeni freed with 11 strict conditions (times of eSwatini)

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Mthandeni+freed+with+11+strict+conditions&yiphi=1687&bvhdgsj=News

In eSwatini, abusive lawsuit demands a record $9.8m for defamation

Committee to Protect Journalists, 4 November 4, 2025

SOURCE

LUSAKA: The Swazi Bridge news site in Eswatini is facing a record-breaking claim for 170 million emalangeni (US$9.8 million) in damages and the threat of terrorism investigations, as part of a growing global trend of using abusive lawsuits to suppress public interest reporting.

The Farmers Bank and its director John Asfar alleged defamation by the privately owned media outlet in March over its 2023 to 2025 reporting of alleged irregularities in the bank’s acquisition of its license to operate in Eswatini, according to court documents, reviewed by CPJ.

“Farmers Bank’s intimidatory conduct raises concern that this lawsuit is designed to silence journalism that critically probes its operations and to instill fear among others in the media,” said CPJ Africa Program Coordinator Muthoki Mumo. “Authorities in Eswatini must ensure that the courts are not misused as tools to censor public interest reporting.”

On October 15, the bank and Asfar filed an application demanding that The Swazi Bridge take down five stories and desist from publishing about them, according to a court document, reviewed by CPJ. The outlet intends to oppose the application, the publication’s lawyer, Sibusiso Nhlabatsi, told CPJ.

He said the damages sought in the case were unprecedented in the southern African nation, an absolute monarchy with a GDP per capita of less than $4,000.

Similar allegations about the bank’s lengthy battle with the regulatory Central Bank to secure a license were published in 2024 as part of the “Swazi Secrets“ series of articles, based on a leak from Eswatini’s anti-money laundering agency and coordinated by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.

To read more of this report, click here

https://cpj.org/2025/11/in-eswatini-abusive-lawsuit-demands-a-record-9-8-mln-for-defamation/

CANGO launches E600,000 drive to boost media freedom

By Sebenzile Bhembe, Independent News, eSwatini, 4 November 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: The Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organisations (CANGO) has rolled out a year-long initiative worth about E600,000 to advance freedom of expression and ethical journalism in Eswatini.

The project, titled ”Liberty, Ethics and Truth: Advancing Freedom of Expression in Eswatini”, was unveiled during a two-day workshop held at the Mbabane Club, hosted in partnership with the Media Consortium. Representatives from various media houses including Independent News, Times of Eswatini, Rubicon Media Group, and Inhlase Centre for Investigative Journalism joined journalism students from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology to discuss strategies for improving media practice and participation.

Supported by the Commonwealth Foundation, the £30,000 (about E600,000) initiative seeks to strengthen media freedom and civic engagement by building the capacity of the media consortium, which consists of ten media and arts organisations. These groups use community radio and creative arts as tools to foster public dialogue and participation.

CANGO Communications and Advocacy Officer Ndimphiwe Shabangu said the project will promote ethical community reporting, amplify grassroots stories, and expand opportunities for women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and persons with disabilities to be active in media spaces. It will also include training on legislative engagement, mentorship for media professionals, and operational support for at least two community radio stations.

According to Shabangu, the initiative began in September 2025 and comes at a time when Eswatini is grappling with restricted civic space and outdated media laws. Through this partnership, CANGO and its media collaborators aim to strengthen ethics, inclusivity, and access to information as vital components of democratic expression.

Emaswati criticise govt’s performance on health – Survey

By Bodwa Mbingo, eSwatini Observer, 2 November 2025

SOURCE

The Afrobarometer Round 10 survey findings have revealed widespread frustration with the public healthcare sector with most Emaswati criticising government on its poor performance in this sector.

The survey revealed that among citizens, who had contact with a public clinic or hospital in the past year, almost nine in 10 said they experienced a lack of medicines or medical supplies during their visit, with eight in 10 reporting long waiting times, and six in 10 saying the cost of care or medicines was unaffordable.

It adds that overwhelming majorities of respondents lack medical coverage and worry about obtaining or affording necessary medical care while three-fourths reported going without medical care at least once during the past year.

“More than seven in 10 Emaswati rate government’s performance on providing basic health services poorly.

Two-thirds point to inadequate public funding as the reason for the current shortages of drugs and medical supplies, and half favour privatising the state-owned Central Medical Stores (CMS) to ensure a reliable supply,” reads the findings in part.

It adds that Emaswati expressed strong support for universal health coverage with two-thirds saying government should ensure that all citizens have access to adequate health care, even if it meant raising taxes.

The survey also states that government has emphasised the importance of having a “healthy and productive population that lives longer, fulfilling, and responsible lives”. It says through its National Health Sector Strategic Plan 2024/2025-2027/2028, the ministry of health is working to accelerate progress towards universal health coverage (UHC) by 2030, with a focus on expanding service coverage and building an inclusive and effective health-care system.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/emaswati-criticise-govts-performance-on-health-survey/

E3.5bn co-operative sector eyes new bank

By Nhlanganiso Mkhonta, Times of eSwatini, 6 November 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Eswatini’s Cooperative sector, which now collectively manages assets valued at over E3.5 billion, is taking a major step towards deepening financial inclusion.

The sector also seeks to strengthen grassroots economic empowerment by pursuing the establishment of a sector-owned co-operative bank.

This development was the focus of the Roundtable on the Establishment of the Eswatini Co-operative Bank, held yesterday at Mountain View Hotel, where co-operative movement leaders, government stakeholders, regulators and international partners engaged on the proposed banking model, governance framework and institutional structure.

Delivering remarks during the session, Minister for Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo said the proposed bank was a natural progression of the co-operative movement’s long and impactful history in the kingdom.

“Cooperators, our co-operative story began on April 27, 1931, when the first society was registered,” he noted. “Since then, co-operatives have been more than just a socio-economic model, they have been a reflection of who we are – a people who believe in solidarity, self-help and community progress.”

Khumalo emphasised that co-operatives have long served communities that mainstream financial institutions could not reach, especially rural and underserved areas, by mobilising small savings, circulating credit and building trust within member communities.

“With growth comes new challenges and new opportunities,” the minister stated, pointing to the sector’s E3.5 billion in assets.

“To continue thriving, we must strengthen how we manage liquidity, build professional skills and embrace digital tools. That is why the time is right to establish the Eswatini Co-operative Bank – one that is owned and led by the sector itself.”

He clarified that the proposed co-operative bank would not replace existing co-operative Financial Institutions (CFIs), SACCOs or savings groups.

“Let me be clear: this bank is not here to replace or compete with our co-operative Financial Institutions,” Khumalo said. “It will act as a central hub, providing liquidity when needed, offering wholesale banking services, modern digital systems and tailored training.”

This centralisation is expected to strengthen financial resilience across the co-operative network, improve governance capacity and allow co-operatives to participate in larger development finance markets.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 901 – 31 October 2025

2025-10-31T04:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 901 – 31 October 2025

eSwatini: No Justice for June 2021 Security Force Violence

By Human Rights Watch, 30 October 2025

SOURCE

JOHANNESBURG: Eswatini has failed to conduct an effective investigation and to ensure justice and accountability for the students, activists, and passers-by killed and injured by security forces’ use of disproportionate and lethal force during the June 2021 pro-democracy demonstrations, Human Rights Watch said today. Instead, the government has intensified its crackdown on dissenting views by arresting government critics on spurious charges, hindering peaceful assembly, and ignoring longstanding calls for democratic reforms.

The 26-page report, “You’ll Die Waiting for Justice,” confirms that the Royal Eswatini Police Service and the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force improperly used tear gas, and rubber bullets, and physically assaulted civilians during the June 2021 unrest. The security forces also shot indiscriminately at protesters and passers-by with live ammunition, killing scores of protesters and injuring hundreds more, including children. The findings shine a spotlight on the absence of accountability since then and the precarious and desperate situation for the victims, requiring urgent action to remedy their situation.

“It is appalling that more than four years later, the victims and survivors are living with the consequences of the brutality they suffered without any remedies for their rights violations” said Nomathamsanqa Masiko-Mpaka, Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch. “The government of Eswatini should promptly embark on effective and comprehensive investigations into all unjustified and disproportionate use of force against civilians by police and military officers implicated in the June 2021 protests.”

Human Rights Watch interviewed 15 people in-person, 6 women and 9 men, in April 2025. The individuals interviewed are all Swati nationals, ages 18 to 68, who were 14 to 64 at the time of the protests. Three of those interviewed had lost loved ones, while 8 were direct victims of security force violence.

Human Rights Watch also interviewed four key stakeholders in Eswatini’s political landscape, including a trade union representative, a representative of a political party, a businessperson, and a human rights lawyer. These four stakeholders, and one of the victims interviewed, fled Eswatini to escape persecution for their political activism and are living in exile in South Africa.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.hrw.org/report/2025/10/30/youll-die-waiting-for-justice/impunity-for-security-forces-abuses-in-june-2021

Youth in eSwatini seek jobs abroad, says Afrobarometer

By Adekunle Owolabi, Independent News, eSwatini, 27 October 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: More than half of Eswatini’s youth aged 15 to 35 are struggling to find work, with 56 percent reported unemployed according to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s 2023 survey. Despite government initiatives and support from development partners, including the Eswatini Youth Development Programme and the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund, young Emaswati are increasingly looking abroad for better opportunities.

The Eswatini Youth Development Programme targets both graduate placement and artisanal training while the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund offers collateral-free loans of up to E200,000 to assist aspiring entrepreneurs. Nevertheless, the economy’s slow growth limits employment opportunities. Each year around 25,000 young people enter the labour market but only 1,000 new jobs are created according to the World Bank. More than one in three youth 36.5 percent are neither in education, employment, nor training.

The 2023 Global Youth Development Index ranks Eswatini 155th out of 183 countries placing it ahead of regional neighbours Malawi, Zimbabwe, Angola, Lesotho, and Mozambique but behind Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia.

Afrobarometer’s 2025 survey conducted in Eswatini by QA Strategic Information with a nationally representative sample of 1,200 adults shows a generational gap in education and employment. Nine out of ten youth aged 18 to 35 have secondary education 66 percent or post-secondary education 24 percent compared with 51 percent to 80 percent of older adults. Yet more than half of youth 53 percent are unemployed and actively seeking work. Barriers include lack of experience 25 percent, mismatch between education and job requirements 21 percent, reluctance to work in tough sectors such as agriculture or manual labour 17 percent, and inadequate training or preparation 13 percent.

Half of young Emaswati express a desire to start their own businesses. Job creation tops their priorities for government support followed by vocational training 20 percent, access to business loans 17 percent, education 10 percent, and social services 3 percent. On top issues including unemployment, health, wages, education, and infrastructure, majorities of youth rate government performance negatively with 89 percent disapproving of efforts to keep prices stable and 86 percent dissatisfied with job creation initiatives. A slight majority 54 percent say Eswatini is moving in the wrong direction and assessments of the country’s economic situation are bleak with only 11 percent satisfied with national conditions and 23 percent satisfied with their personal living conditions.

The survey reveals that countries such as South Africa, England, Ireland, and Taiwan are attractive destinations for young Emaswati seeking stability and better employment. Half of youth have considered emigrating with 71 percent citing jobs as their main motivation. Other reasons include escaping economic hardship 12 percent and pursuing education 5 percent. Compared to 2018 consideration of emigration among youth has risen by 10 percentage points.

Anti-HIV jab arrives in November

By Khulile Thwala, Times of eSwatini, 28 October 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Eswatini is set to receive its first batch of a new HIV injection next month.

This marks a major milestone in the country’s fight against new infections. In this groundbreaking move, Eswatini has become the second country to receive the HIV prevention injectable drug, Lenacapavir, which is expected to arrive in November.

According to credible sources, the twice-a-year HIV prevention injection’s first 500 vials are expected to arrive ahead of the official launch on December 1, 2025 during the World AIDS Day commemoration.

The sources have further revealed that Eswatini will subsequently receive a larger consignment of about E11 million vials in January 2026.

Eswatini follows in the footsteps of South Africa, which became the first country yesterday to announce the official registration of Lenacapavir.

The Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organisations (CANGO) is said to be playing a central role in coordinating this milestone achievement.

The jab is said to be targeted at high risk populations as defined in the National HIV Strategic Framework including adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), young women 25-34, pregnant and breastfeeding women, key population, high risk men and HIV negative people who are interested in an HIV prevention option.

To read more of this report, click here

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Anti-HIV+jab+arrives+in+November&yiphi=1583&bvhdgsj=News

See also

eSwatini’s HIV success applauded, but PM warns of ongoing challenges (eSwatini Positive News)

https://eswatinipositivenews.online/eswatinis-hiv-successes-applauded-but-pm-warns-of-ongoing-challenges/

UNESWA report: Animosity between vice chancellor, registrar

By Nokuphila Haji, eSwatini Observer, 30 October 2025

SOURCE

The task team looking into the state of the University of Eswatini has found that there had been animosity and misunderstanding between the former registrar (now retired) and the vice chancellor regarding their respective roles.

According to the team, the registrar viewed himself as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the university, while the vice-chancellor was seen as having an external role focused on marketing the university and raising funds.

The task team stated that the registrar had effectively usurped powers to run the university, claiming he was recalled after having left the institution by the former chair of council.
“UNESWA is one university where the registrar has an overreach even into the portfolio of the vice-chancellor, not to mention the roles of deputy vice-chancellors, which are loosely captured as ‘administration’,” the report noted.

The report also cited administrative inefficiencies, such as delays in approving new programmes, poor resource allocation, and excessive bureaucracy, which hinder the university’s ability to respond to emerging challenges. These inefficiencies, according to the report, cause UNESWA to lose out to other universities that have more agile approval processes.

The report further revealed a lack of a coherent strategic vision to address the university’s challenges and align its operations with national and regional priorities. The report also added that the third-stream income initiatives such as the UNESWA Foundation and Chakaza Holdings have failed to generate significant revenue due to poor oversight and weak leadership by senior management.
Furthermore, the report stated that the absence of strategic planning has left the university ill-prepared to navigate its financial and operational crises.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/uneswa-report-animosity-between-vice-chancellor-registrar/

See also

UNESWA task team report out: Wage bill takes 90% of budget (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/uneswa-task-team-report-out-wage-bill-takes-90-of-budget/

UNESWA Task Team recommends forensic, 8 other reforms (Times of eSwatini)

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=UNESWA+Task+Team+recommends+forensic%2C+8+other+reforms&yiphi=1609&bvhdgsj=News

UNESWA closed as students protest, journo assaulted (eSwatini News)

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=UNESWA+closed+as+students+protest%2C+journo+assaulted+&yiphi=1544&bvhdgsj=News

Editor calls for a high level investigation into Commissioner-Cooperative Development’s death, says Russell Nxumalo was fighting corruption within Cooperatives and facing a dangerous mafia

By Musa Mdluli, Swaziland News, 27 October, 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: [Swaziland News] Editor Zweli Martin Dlamini has called for a high level investigation into the death of Russell Nxumalo, the Commissioner of Cooperative Development in the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade.

The editor said Nxumalo’s death leaves a lot of unanswered questions particularly because, he was fighting corruption facing a dangerous mafia within Cooperatives and therefore, his sudden death should be investigated.

“I’ve known him for close to twenty (20) years as a man of integrity who hates corruption and his death shocked me. He recently sent me a message saying he wants us to discuss something so now I’m left with unanswered questions regarding what he wanted to say considering the corruption within Cooperatives,” said the editor.

The editor urged the police to investigate Nxumalo’s movements between Friday and Sunday and the people he was enjoying drinks with a few hours before he died. He then sent condolences to the family, the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Mancoba Khumalo and the Government, relatives and friends following the death of the Commissioner-Cooperative Development.

The late Commissioner of Cooperative Development in the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade Russell Nxumalo (pic:EBIS)

See also

Condolences pour in for Russell Nxumalo (Independent News, eSwatini)

https://independentnews.co.sz/30038/news/condolences-pour-in-for-russell-nxumalo/

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 900 – 24 October 2025

2025-10-24T03:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 900 – 24 October 2025

Public: Bread price hike will make us poorer

By Stanley Khumalo and Khulile Thwala, Times of eSwatini, 22 October 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Government’s approval of a seven per cent increase in the price of bread has sparked widespread discontent among members of the public.

They are of the view that the hike will worsen the already high cost of living. The announcement, confirmed by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, means that from November 1, 2025, the price of an 800-gram loaf of white bread will increase from E16.73 to E17.90, while brown bread of the same size will cost E15.60, up from E14.58.

Although the rise may appear marginal on paper, consumers say it will translate into a heavy financial blow for thousands of households already battling rising costs of food, fuel and transport.

The hike in the 800g-loaf of bread with E1.17 amounts will cost a consumer who buys a loaf of bread every other day, E4.68 more weekly which amounts to E243.36 per year. However, it will be double this amount for a family of four with minimal resources as bread is consumed often to subsidise the high cost of food. This is because they will buy a loaf of bread daily, which cumulatively will amount to E486.72 per year.

The decision has ignited a wave of frustration across the kingdom, with many emaSwati accusing government of ignoring the plight of the poor.

During interviews conducted by this publication, several residents described the adjustment as a huge blow to those who live from hand to mouth.

“I was shocked to hear about the increase. We are already struggling to buy basic groceries. For the poor, this is not just about bread, it’s about survival,” said one consumer.

Another consumer in Mbabane said the hike showed a lack of empathy from policymakers.

“The timing is terrible. The cost of everything is up and now they are raising bread prices again. Government should have found another way to support bakeries without punishing consumers,” she said. For many low-income earners, bread remains a dietary staple, often the only meal that children have before school.

“Every Lilangeni counts. When the price of bread goes up, it affects everyone, especially those earning below E2 000 a month. It means skipping breakfast or sending a child to school on an empty stomach,” said a resident of Simunye.

The seven per cent increase comes just three years after Cabinet approved a 20.76 per cent rise in July 2022, which pushed bread prices to record highs. Many consumers say they are still reeling from that previous hike and had hoped that prices would stabilise.

To read more of this report, click here

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Public%3A+Bread+price+hike+will+make+us+poorer&yiphi=1503&bvhdgsj=News

eSwatini loses about E1bn US funding in 2 years

By Musa Simelane, eSwatini Observer, 19 October 2025

SOURCE

Eswatini has lost nearly E1 billion in United States (US) government funding between 2024/25, marking one of the sharpest aid contractions the country has faced in recent years.

According to official data published by foreignassistance.gov, Eswatini’s total US foreign assistance allocation dropped from USD 76.6 million (about E1.38 billion) in 2024 to USD 20.9 million (about E378 million) in 2025 — a 72.7% decrease.

The difference, approximately E1 billion, represents the single largest year-to-year reduction in funding since the US began documenting its global aid spending online. The drop followed the suspension of United States Aid for International Development (USAID) funding at the beginning of 2025, a decision announced under the administration of President Donald Trump.

The order, part of what was termed ‘foreign aid realignment’, froze most US government development programmes worldwide while a review was conducted. For Eswatini, this meant that nearly three-quarters of its regular assistance disappeared in a single budget cycle.

The numbers tell a stark story. In 2024, the kingdom benefited from more than E1.38 billion in American support. About a year later, that figure had fallen to about E378 million, slashing funds available for public health programmes, non-governmental partnerships, and education support.

For Eswatini, a country that has relied heavily on donor funding to sustain its health sector, particularly in the battle against HIV/AIDS, the implications are significant.

For over two decades, the US government, largely through USAID and the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), has been the country’s single largest external partner in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Programmes funded by these mechanisms have provided antiretroviral drugs, training for healthcare workers, maternal-child health services, and logistical support for clinics across all four regions. The impact was evident in the years leading up to 2025.

According to foreignassistance.gov, between 2022 and 2024, the majority of US funding went toward HIV/AIDS, health systems, and related social support programmes. During this period, Eswatini achieved one of the highest HIV viral-suppression rates in sub-Saharan Africa, a success often credited to sustained US investment and technical assistance.

But that progress is now at risk. The 2025 reduction in US aid has already disrupted some long-standing partnerships. Health workers who relied on US-funded programmes for salary support, community outreach, and supply-chain stability face uncertainty. Clinics supported by US partners report fewer resources to conduct testing and outreach, while local NGOs have scaled down staff, with some shutting down operations months ago.

The most prominent threat has been medication supply continuity. Antiretroviral drug procurement and distribution, previously underwritten by PEPFAR funds, are among the programmes likely to experience continued shortfalls.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/eswatini-loses-about-e1bn-us-funding-in-2-years/

A Cuban man deported by the U.S. to Africa is on a hunger strike in prison, his lawyer says

By Gerald Imray, Associated Press (AP), 22 October 2025

SOURCE

A Cuban man deported by the United States to the African nation of Eswatini is on a hunger strike at a maximum-security prison having been held there for more than three months without being charged or having access to legal counsel under the Trump administration’s third-country program, his U.S.-based lawyer said Wednesday.

Roberto Mosquera del Peral was one of five men sent to the small kingdom in southern Africa in mid-July as part of the expanding U.S. deportation program to Africa, which has been criticized by rights groups and lawyers, who say deportees are being denied due process and exposed to rights abuses.

Mosquera’s lawyer, Alma David, said in a statement sent to The Associated Press that he had been on a hunger strike for a week, and there were serious concerns over his health.

“My client is arbitrarily detained, and now his life is on the line,” David said. “I urge the Eswatini Correctional Services to provide Mr. Mosquera’s family and me with an immediate update on his condition and to ensure that he is receiving adequate medical attention. I demand that Mr. Mosquera be permitted to meet with his lawyer in Eswatini.”

An Eswatini government spokesperson referred the AP, which requested comment, to a correctional services official, who didn’t immediately respond to calls and messages.

Mosquera was among a group of five men from Cuba, Jamaica, Laos, Vietnam and Yemen deported to Eswatini, an absolute monarchy ruled by a king who is accused of clamping down on human rights. The Jamaican man was repatriated to his home country last month, but the others have been kept at the prison for more than three months, while an Eswatini-based lawyer has launched a case against the government demanding they be given access to legal counsel.

Civic groups in Eswatini have also taken authorities to court to challenge the legality of holding foreign nationals in prison without charge. Eswatini said that the men would be repatriated, but have given no timeframe for any other repatriations.

U.S. authorities said they want to deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Eswatini under the same program.

The men sent to Eswatini were criminals convicted of serious offenses, including murder and rape, and were in the U.S. illegally, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said. It said that Mosquera had been convicted of murder and other charges and was a gang member.

The men’s lawyers said they had all completed their criminal sentences in the U.S., and are now being held illegally in Eswatini, where they haven’t been charged with any offense.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has cast the third-country deportation program as a means to remove “illegal aliens” from American soil as part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, saying they have a choice to self-deport or be sent to a country like Eswatini.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/a-cuban-man-deported-by-the-u-s-to-africa-is-on-a-hunger-strike-in-prison-his-lawyer-says

See also

Man deported by Trump administration to Eswatini starts hunger strike after shocking abuses (Tag24)

https://www.tag24.com/politics/refugees/man-deported-by-trump-administration-to-eswatini-starts-hunger-strike-after-shocking-abuses-3431558-amp

Illegal abortion crisis alarms officials

By Lungisile Simelane, Times of eSwatini (Press Reader edition), 17 October 2025

MBABANE: The rising rate of illegal abortion in Eswatini has been flagged as a serious cause for concern.

Officials have directly linked this trend to several factors, including paternity disputes, the poor economic status of mothers and other causal effects.

Others attributed this to a perceived increase in reckless behaviour among young people who are on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP is a daily medication taken by HIV-negative people to lower their risk of contracting HIV through sex or injection drug use.

Just last week, a 27-year-old woman from Ticantfwini was arrested and charged with attempted murder, after she allegedly gave birth and then dumped the newly-born baby boy in a pit latrine.

She was arrested by Manzini Police following a tip-off from concerned citizens who heard what sounded like a baby crying coming from a toilet. Upon investigation, it was confirmed that a human being was inside, prompting the community to rally together to retrieve the infant. It is alleged that the suspect gave birth alone inside a house before dumping the baby.

In the same week, residents of Simpompeni, near Siteki, were left reeling in disbelief on Monday morning, 2025, following the gruesome discovery of a human foetus dumped in a communal rubbish bin.

The foetus, believed to be between three and four months old, was found in a pile of refuse by a local man collecting food scraps for his dogs. Eyewitnesses said the foetus had visible hair, which added to the horror of the discovery.

Police have since taken a woman in her mid-40s into custody as the main suspect in the case.

De-witched: battling magic, misinformation and measles in eSwatini

By Nokukhanya Musi–Aimienoho, Gavi, Vaccines Work, 21 October 2025

SOURCE

From the frontlines of a nationwide measles campaign, a veteran nurse explains how a dose of fact is the best inoculation against baseless alarmism.

Sister Thuli Magagula doesn’t believe in magic – and yet, she knows for a fact that witchcraft can be mortally dangerous.

In communities like Macetjeni, in Eswatini’s eastern lowveld, where Magagula grew up, supernatural explanations for disease were, and continue to be, commonplace.

Those captivating stories, she realised after she matriculated at nursing school, concealed the realities of preventable, treatable illnesses. By clouding popular understandings of disease, witchcraft – or rather, its mythic shadow – was leaving children’s lives at risk.

For close to 30 years now, the nurse and midwife been advocating against the kind misinformation that blames magical bad actors for symptoms brought on by pathogens.

“I witnessed first-hand how preventable diseases like measles, tetanus and polio affected children, as many families were losing their infants. Some of the children were said to have died from bewitching,” the 52-year-old sister and midwife recalls.

“I lost friends to measles when I was young. That experience ignited a fire in me to ensure no other child suffers the same fate,” she reveals.

Moved by her childhood experiences, Magagula was inspired to join Eswatini’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) after nursing school. She has dedicated her life to dispelling myths surrounding vaccinations.

“Meeting mothers who lost children due to these diseases that could have been prevented with vaccines strengthened my resolve to ensure that no family has to endure such a loss,” she says.

Now an EPI Immunization Officer, she plays a crucial role in delivering lifesaving vaccines to women and children across the country.

Sister Thuli Magagula checking vaccine potency at Nkonjwa clinic. Credit: Mpendulo Dlamini, Health Promotion Unit

Her small office is adorned with images of smiling children and stacked with educational materials – a reminder of why she fights, and how. But most days she’s on the road, travelling to often-remote villages to vaccinate children, and it’s here that she believes she makes the biggest difference.

Eswatini has made strides in vaccination coverage in recent years – progress that can be heavily attributed to dedicated vaccinators like Magagula. But there’s further to go.

According to WHO and UNICEF immunisation data, coverage with the first dose of measles-containing vaccine has crept up steadily since a 2020 low of 76%, to hold steady at 85% since 2023. Coverage with the second dose of the measles vaccine, meanwhile, rose from 82% to 86% in the last year on record.

That’s encouraging, but well below the 95% threshold for herd immunity. And, as Deputy Director of the Ministry of Health Rejoice Nkambule points out, the threat of an outbreak has been alarmingly immediate. Neighbouring South Africa and Mozambique are currently battling epidemics of the highly contagious infection.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.gavi.org/vaccineswork/de-witched-how-eswatinis-thuli-magagula-battles-magic-myths-misinformation-and

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 899 – 17 October 2025

2025-10-17T03:00:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 899 – 17 October 2025

MPs want vetting process before marriage

By Sabelo Majola, Times of eSwatini, 15 October 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Members of Parliament (MPs) want a legislation that will necessitate the vetting of individuals before they commit to a marriage.

This call comes after the legislators expressed worry with the high number of divorces reflected in the Ministry of Home Affairs Second Quarter Performance Report.

In the period between July 2025 and September 2025, 196 divorces were registered at the ministry. This shows a decline of 26 per cent, compared to 247 that were registered in the first quarter. Early last year, this newspaper reported that in just one year, registered divorce cases increased by 70 per cent, according to the Annual Vital Statistics Report 2023.

It was reported that among both sexes, divorces occurred between the age groups of 30 and 34 and 40 and 44 years. According to the report, most brides got divorced between the ages of 35 and 39, while grooms retired from their matrimonial unions between 40 and 44 years. At the backdrop of these figures, MPs want a policy that will look into the readiness of couples, considering such things as financial stability, age of consent and if families of the couple have given a green light to their union, among other things.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=MPs+want+vetting+process+before+marriage&yiphi=1415&bvhdgsj=News

See also

Easy marriages a major cause of rising divorce rate (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/easy-marriages-a-major-cause-of-rising-divorce-rate/

Over 46 girls sexually violated in 3 months

By Kwanele Sibiya, eSwatini Observer, 13 October 2025

SOURCE

Over 46 young girls aged between zero and 17 years have been sexually violated in Eswatini in the past three months.

This was revealed by Swatini Action Group Against Abuse (SWAGAA) Executive Director Nonhlanhla Dlamini, who expressed deep concern over the rising number of child abuse cases, especially those involving sexual violence.

“In the last three months (from July to September), we received over 46 cases of children that have been sexually violated. The cases involve children aged between zero to nine, 10–14, and 16–17,” Dlamini said on Friday during a press briefing held at SWAGAA offices.

She said despite extensive advocacy on child protection and gender-based violence (GBV), the scourge continues unabated.

Dlamini further criticised the justice system, alleging that it was failing to protect child victims.

She said it was painful that children, the future generation, were being abused while the system appeared indifferent.

“It is disheartening that the very justice system that should protect them seems not to be doing anything about it,” she said.

Meanwhile, Youth Sustainable Development Centre Director Nokuthula Mamba said society was normalising discriminatory cultural norms, leaving many young people without a voice.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/over-46-girls-sexually-violated-in-3-months/

See also

Daily horror: Children face rising wave of sexual abuse (Times of eSwatini)

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Daily+horror%3A+Children+face+rising+wave+of+sexual+abuse&yiphi=1402&bvhdgsj=News

Fine foreigners for impregnating girls – MP (eSwatini Observer)

https://eswatiniobserver.com/fine-foreigners-for-impregnating-girls-mp/

Police take strong stand against sexual abuse of children (eSwatini Positive News)

https://eswatinipositivenews.online/police-takes-strong-stand-against-sexual-abuse-of-children/

Public safety concerns grow as eSwatini accepts more US-deported criminals

By Taschica Pillay, Independent on line (South Africa), 12 October 2025

SOURCE

Human rights organisations and legal experts have expressed outrage over eSwatini’s continued acceptance of deported prisoners from the United States (US).

South Africa’s neighbouring country has become a destination for criminals, some convicted of murder, child rape, and gang-related activities.

This week 10 more criminals arrived in eSwatini, following the first group of five in July.

It has been reported that the country agreed in May to accept up to 160 deportees in exchange for $5.1 million to “build its border and migration management capacity”, according to a deal signed with the United States and seen by AFP, an international news agency.

Mzwandile Masuku, human rights lawyer and executive director of the Swaziland Litigation Centre, expressed apprehensions about eSwatini’s ability to manage these deportees effectively.

He pointed out the country’s ongoing struggles with escapes from correctional facilities and highlighted the porous nature of the borders between eSwatini and its neighbours.

“This poses a serious regional issue especially in view of the fact that eSwatini is a small country in the region and the big economies might prove the best destination.

“We have porous borders between states, which cut across families and domestic farming land,” he said.

In July US President Donald Trump’s administration sent five men, immigrants from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Yemen and Cuba. They were convicted of child rape, murder, burglary, and being gang members and whose countries refuse to take them back.

In a statement issued by His Majesty’s Correctional Services this week, they confirmed the arrival of 10 third country nationals from the US.

“These nationals have been securely accommodated in one of the country’s correctional facilities, as the government continues to collaborate with relevant local and international stakeholders to facilitate their orderly repatriation.

“We further reiterate the government’s assurance that the individuals pose no immediate threat to public safety, as they remain under strict supervision and care within the Department’s facilities,” read the statement.

Abigail Jackson, the White House spokesperson reportedly said, those deported to eSwatini had been convicted of “heinous crimes”, including murder and rape. “They do not belong in the US”, said Jackson.

Willem Els, the Institute for Security Studies senior training coordinator of the ENACT (Enhancing Africa’s Response to Transnational Organised Crime) programme, said should these criminals break out they will look for an opportunity to get into South Africa and disappear in the crowd because of the lack of policing and enforcement.

“With our porous borders, it is not just lack of border security, the weakest link is corruption.

“The US wants to get rid of these migrants. We don’t know what agreement was made, except that a lot of money is being paid and these men have become eSwatini’s problem. The question is will they be able to keep them locked in a maximum security facility and for how long? asked Els.

This week’s arrival of deportees comes as several rights groups including Swaziland (eSwatini) Litigation Centre, Swaziland Rural Women’s Assembly and the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC) await the decision an urgent court application to stop the acceptance of the criminals.

To read more of this report, click here

https://iol.co.za/sunday-tribune/news/2025-10-11-public-safety-concerns-grow-as-eswatini-accepts-more-us-deported-criminals/

PUDEMO President Mlungisi Makhanya says by reminding Prime Minister that he is not the Head of Government, MP Welcome Dlamini confirmed King Mswati as an absolute Monarch

By Musa Mdluli, Swaziland News, 14 October, 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Mlungisi Makhanya, the President of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) says, Mbabane East Member of Parliament (MP) Welcome Dlamini has confirmed King Mswati as an absolute Monarch by reminding Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini that, he is not the Head of Government.

“The Prime Minister is not the Head of Government but the King as the Head of State, is the Head of Government. This tendency of addressing the PM as the Head of Government must stop because he will continue to develop a political appetite seeking to control other Arms of the Government,” said the MP inside Parliament on Tuesday.

Responding to this Swaziland News when asked to analyse MP Dlamini’s Parliament submissions, the PUDEMO President said, “it was so accurate that the Prime Minister is not the Head of Government” but, a Chairman of Cabinet in terms of the eSwatini Constitution.

“In this country, the King is the Head of everything and an absolute Monarch, so MP Welcome Dlamini must also remind the Speaker that he is not the Head of Parliament, the Head of Parliament is the King who is also the Head of the Judiciary. So basically, the King is the Head of everything in this country and that’s why we are demanding a democratic Government”, said the PUDEMO President.

See also

‘You are not the Head of Government’, MP Welcome Dlamini tells Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini (Swaziland News)

http://swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=10293

‘We need to open the gates of freedom of expression,’ says Makhubu

By Adekunle Owolabi, Independent News (eSwatini), 15 October 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: In his Career Chat column for Khuluma Eswatini, Bheki Makhubu writes about growing concern as reports show schoolchildren in Eswatini are abandoning their public examinations to join the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) recruitment exercise.

The army’s annual drive, aimed at strengthening national security and providing employment opportunities for youth, coincides this year with Form III and Form V external examinations, raising alarm among educators and parents.

Some pupils meeting the minimum age requirement have temporarily left their exams to run the 3.2-kilometre qualifying race for army selection. While there are no reports of permanent dropout, the decision to prioritise recruitment over final exams signals a troubling shift in values.

Eighteen-year-old Nobuhle Mbhamali from Ndunayithini, a Junior Certificate candidate at Oslo High School, participated in the recruitment under Sigwe Inkhundla. She told the media: “Nowadays, there is no difference whether you’re educated or not. Everyone comes back to stay at home because of unemployment. I’ve been offered a job opportunity, and I will grab it.”

Makhubu noted that such attitudes reflect growing frustration among emaSwati youth who feel education no longer guarantees a better future amid high unemployment, especially for graduates.

“True, we live in very tough economic times where jobs are scarce, but to allow our children to give up on education is not the solution to the country’s myriad of problems,” Makhubu wrote. He added that in a society that values education, students like Nobuhle would complete school before seeking army employment.

He called for a national dialogue involving experts in education, economics, and social development to address this decline in educational value. “In a normal society, this spectre of children opting to drop out of school to join the army at the tail end of their educational journey would be a red flag that requires its own national dialogue,” he said.

Bheki Makhubu

To read more of this report, click here

https://independentnews.co.sz/28764/news/education/we-need-to-open-the-gates-of-freedom-of-expression-says-makhubu/

Judiciary warns MP against contempt

By Kwanele Dlamini, Times of eSwatini, 10 October 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: The Judiciary has advised Hhukwini MP Alec Lushaba to stop insulting its members or risk facing contempt proceedings.

According to a statement issued by the Judiciary yesterday, if the Member of Parliament (MP) does not cease his ‘political agenda and insults’ against it, the Judiciary will consider all legal remedies available to defend its reputation, including contempt of court charges.

The Judiciary states that in Parliament on Wednesday, Lushaba made ‘false and misleading’ statements to the effect that it (the Judiciary) lied to members of the public that the Judicial Inquiry into the Master’s Office was effectual when nothing was being done.

Lushaba also allegedly stated that the Judiciary lied to the public that the terms and conditions of the judicial officers were being attended to when, according to him, nothing is being done.

In its statement, the Judiciary refuted the truthfulness of the submissions made by the MP and asserted that Lushaba reportedly has an inclination to attack it for, among other reasons, political gain.

To read more of this report, click here

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Judiciary+warns+MP+against+contempt&yiphi=1351&bvhdgsj=News

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 898 – 10 October 2025

2025-10-10T04:30:00.001+02:00

Swaziland Newsletter No. 898 – 10 October 2025

‘Ripe’ or not, consent age is 18 – Traditionalists

By Musa Simelane, eSwatini Observer, 5 October 2025

SOURCE

Traditionalists have clarified that under Swazi Law and Custom, a girl’s readiness for sex depends on maturity, not looks. “Below 18 is rape,” they warn.

As the debate continues to swirl around the age of consent for females in the country, traditionalists have stepped forward to weigh in on the matter.

They have clarified that, under Swazi Law and Custom, a girl’s readiness for sexual intercourse cannot be determined by her physical appearance but rather by her age and maturity.

This follows the ongoing constitutional case involving Government Spokesperson Alpheous Mfana Nxumalo, who is challenging certain provisions of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act of 2018. Nxumalo faces two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with females aged 17 and 18, respectively.

The case has reignited a national discussion on what constitutes the legal and customary age of consent in Eswatini. Nxumalo’s matter, heard by the Constitutional Court, revolves around his argument that Parliament failed to refer the SODV Bill to the Council of Chiefs as required under Section 115 of the Constitution.

Judgment in the case has been reserved, and the ruling will be delivered on a date to be announced by the Registrar of the High Court.

The hearing sparked widespread debate on social media, particularly after courtroom exchanges touched on the issue of a girl’s “readiness” for sexual intercourse under Swazi Law and Custom. Many questioned whether traditional perspectives align or conflict with the SODV Act, which sets the age of consent at 18 years.

Traditionalists, however, have sought to clear any confusion. They insist that Swati customs have long upheld respect for womanhood and chastity — and that even within cultural norms, the age of consent does not fall below 18.

To read more of this report, click here

https://eswatiniobserver.com/traditionalists-affirm-age-of-consent-remains-18/

15 wives, 30 kids, 100 servants: African king’s grand entourage locks down Abu Dhabi airport

By Yati Gupta, The National Bulletin (India), 6 October 2025

SOURCE

15 Wives, 30 Kids, 100 Servants: A video of the entry of King Mswati III of Eswatini at Abu Dhabi Airport has become viral on social media where the extravagant entourage of the monarch is reported to have brought operations in three of the terminals to a temporary halt.

The play was dramatized by the king landing in a private jet with allegedly 15 wives, 30 children and approximately 100 servants, which is why the airport officials had to impose a short-term lockdown to cope with the huge number of people that had never been seen before.

The subject of the viral video is the ruler of Swaziland, King Mswati III, who is the last absolute monarch left in the whole of the African continent. The video was shot on July 10, 2025, and he wears the traditional leopard-printed clothes, with his wives in colorful African costumes around him.

His father, the late King Sobhuza II, used to have a huge royal household and was said to have had over 70 wives, 210 children and almost 1,000 grandchildren. King Mswati III assumed power in 1986, but he is said to have more than 30 wives and over 35 kids. Having a net worth that is estimated to be over 1 billion, he is still one of the richest monarchs in the world.

It was also reported that the visit of the king in Abu Dhabi was to make high level economic discussions, yet it was the show-boat-like demonstration that got the people into noticing the visit. The half-dressed king is observed in the video to be bowed and saluted by his entourage whilst the royal aides unload a huge assortment of luggage.

The users of social media responded rapidly, with many of them making jokes that the entourage of the king resembles a whole village. The show has also stirred criticism over his lavish living with almost 60 per cent of the population of Eswatini living in poverty.

Every year, King Mswati has the traditional ceremony of the Reed Dance whereby he will choose a new bride which has remained a subject of fascination and controversy at the same time. The fact that he has just been to the United Arab Emirates has again brought world attention on his extravagance and the sharp contrast between his national economic plight.

More deportees from U.S. arrive in African nation of eSwatini

By The Associated Press, 6 October 2025

SOURCE

MANZINI: A group of 10 migrants deported from the United States arrived early Monday in the African nation of Eswatini, authorities there said.

They are the latest of more than 40 deportees sent to Africa since July after the Trump administration struck largely secretive agreements with at least five nations there to take migrants under the new third-country deportation program that rights groups and others have protested.

A lawyer for two of the latest deportees told The Associated Press earlier on Monday that their flight had arrived in the southern African kingdom after departing from Alexandria, Louisiana, and stopping in Puerto Rico, Senegal and Angola.

Tin Thanh Nguyen, the U.S.-based lawyer, said he represents two Vietnamese nationals who were on the flight. He said they had been held at the Alexandria Staging Facility immigration detention center in Louisiana. Nguyen said he tracked their flight with help from rights group Human Rights First.

The Eswatini government confirmed in a statement that 10 deportees had arrived and "have been securely accommodated in one of the country's correctional facilities." It didn't name them, give details on their nationalities or say where they are being held. It said they were "in good health and undergoing admission processes."

Four men from Cuba, Laos, Vietnam and Yemen who were deported to Eswatini in mid-July have been held in the country's maximum-security Matsapha prison without charge for nearly three months, their lawyers have said. Nguyen represents two of those men.

The U.S. said the men sent to Eswatini in July were convicted criminals who had deportation orders. A Jamaican man in that first group was repatriated to his home country last month.

After the arrival of the latest deportees, the Eswatini government said it "remains committed to the humane treatment of all persons in its custody."

The four men have been allowed to make phone calls to their families and lawyers in the U.S. However, authorities haven't allowed an Eswatini-based lawyer to visit them. The lawyer won a court ruling on Friday granting him access but the government immediately appealed, blocking him from visiting them.

U.S. authorities have referred questions over the men's treatment to officials in Eswatini, a small kingdom bordering South Africa where the king holds absolute power and has been accused of clamping down on pro-democracy movements.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/deportees-us-arrive-african-nation-eswatini-rcna235869

See also

eSwatini receives 10 third-country deportees from US (Reuters)

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/10/06/africa/eswatini-deportees-united-states-intl-latam

eSwatini trades prisoners intake for $5.1M border deal with US (AFP)

https://iol.co.za/sunday-tribune/news/2025-10-08-eswatini-trades-prisoners-intake-for-5-1m-border-deal-with-us/#google_vignette

Mthandeni’s family waits, release date unknown

By Sibusiso Zwane, Times of eSwatini Sunday, 4 October 2025

SOURCE

NGWEMPISI: Former Ngwempisi Member of Parliament (MP) Mthandeni Dube’s family, neighbours, and friends waited all day long for his release yesterday, but in vain.

This publication visited e-Fakudze under Ngwempisi Inkhundla and found a handful of men, including the former MP’s neighbours and close friends, in the business area, which is about 800 metres away.

When this publication approached them, they revealed that they were there awaiting the arrival of their former MP, as they had been told he was supposed to be released yesterday through a Royal Pardon.

They also said that after they made plans to host a prayer for him upon his arrival, the police warned them to call it off for security reasons.

Consequently, they even posted on their social media pages that the prayer had been cancelled for now due to security reasons.

Therefore, they said they were there to turn back people who might have wished to join the prayer session for their former MP.

They said, luckily for them, it seemed the message about the cancellation of the prayer successfully reached the people, as no one showed up.

According to Dube’s neighbours and friends, they arrived at the business centre at around 8am.

After seeing that nothing was happening regarding his release, at around 11:50am, they decided to have a short prayer at the former MP’s parental home. This, they said, was because Pastor Njabulo Tfwala, whom they had asked to lead them in prayer when the former MP arrived, had already made it there.

The prayer eventually started at around 12:30pm and lasted for about an hour. During the prayer, which was held in the main house of the Dube family, Pastor Senzo Msibi, a close neighbour, said they were hoping that by praying at that time, they would be praying together with Dube. It is worth noting that Dube’s mother, Kesta (77), was among the family members who joined the prayer.

Pastor Msibi said they should continue with the prayer to thank the Lord for the good news they received that Dube would be released from jail. He said they would sing praises to the Lord with the hope that before the end of the day, Dube would be with them.

To read more of this report, click here

https://times.co.sz/news/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Mthandeni%E2%80%99s+family+waits%2C+release+date+unknown&yiphi=1259&bvhdgsj=News

See also

MP Mthandeni Dube might not take-up his SWALIMO Deputy President position as appointed by ‘Magawugawu’ after release, political activists banned from attending his welcoming ceremony (Swaziland News)

https://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=10201

Indian police kills eSwatini University student merely for being ‘black’, eSwatini Government urges emaSwati not to revenge against Indian citizens living in the Kingdom

By Musa Mdluli, Swaziland News, 5 October, 2025

SOURCE

MBABANE: Indian police allegedly killed Sisonke Nkambule, a university student who was studying in the Asian country merely because of his skin colour.

It has been disclosed that, the police were searching for a theft suspect and the university student was found on the streets, grabbed and dragged to the Police Station where he was detained and heavily assaulted.

The university student was subsequently released after it was discovered that he committed no crime but unfortunately, he died a few days later due to serious injuries.

It is alleged that, the alleged racist Indian cops grabbed Nkambule on suspicion that he was the one who committed the crime because he came from Africa saying Africans are known for stealing.

Eswatini Foreign Minister Pholile Dlamini-Shakantu released a statement on Saturday, confirming the death of the student but, urged emaSwati to remain calm.

The Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation released the statement after emaSwati threatened Indians living in eSwatini.

“We urge all citizens to remain calm and avoid such incitement”, said the eSwatini Foreign Minister.

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