Swaziland Newsletter No. 916 – 27 February 2026

 

Swaziland Newsletter No. 916 – 27 February 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.

 

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

 

Swaziland Newsletter No. 915 – 20 February 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.

 

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

 

Swaziland Newsletter No. 914 – 13 February 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.

 

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.

Read more

https://www.amnesty.org/en/documents/afr55/0681/2026/en/

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

 

Swaziland Newsletter No. 913 – 6 February 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.

 

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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