Swaziland Newsletter No. 816 – 1 March 2024

 

Swaziland Newsletter No. 816 – 1 March 2024

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.

 

eSwatini dictator King Mswati deploys armed soldiers at troubled University of eSwatini

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 26 February, 2024

SOURCE 

KWALUSENI: King Mswati allegedly deployed armed soldiers at the troubled University of Eswatini (UNESWA) on Monday morning, after Lecturers boycotted exams and marched to Parliament as the institution of higher learning faces deepening financial constraints, while failing to pay salaries.

Mswati rules eSwatini as an absolute Monarch, citizens are shot by the police and soldiers merely for protesting, while human rights defenders are arrested or killed for demanding democracy.

Responding to this Swaziland News on Monday, Dr Salebona Simelane, the Registrar of the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) asked this journalist to contact the army authorities, he then claimed to have not witnessed the deployment of the soldiers some who were pictured within the premises of the institution of higher learning.

“Good morning, Nkhosi. Please ask the army authorities on this issue, but I did not witness a deployment of the army today”, said the UNESWA Registrar.

The Registrar subsequently released a memo later on Monday afternoon, informing UNESWA staff and students about the postponement of the exams amid the challenges faced by the institution.

“The Senate resolved at its meeting held on the 26th February, 2024 that the 2022/2023 Second Semester Examinations should be postponed by one week. Effectively, the examinations shall commence on Monday, 4th March 2024”, reads the memorandum in part released on Monday.

To read more of this report, click here

https://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=6110

 

Navigating uncharted waters: eSwatini’s bold move into maritime registry despite landlocked geography

By BNN Breaking News, 23 February 2024

SOURCE 

Imagine a country where the concept of a ‘sea view’ is purely imaginative, where the closest shore is miles away beyond its borders. Now, picture this landlocked nation launching a maritime registry, welcoming ships to fly its flag without ever sailing its non-existent waters. This is not a plot from a whimsical novel but the reality of Eswatini, a country boldly stepping into the realm of international shipping without a coast in sight. Established in October 2023, Eswatini’s maritime foray raises eyebrows and questions alike, challenging the norms of what it means to be a seafaring nation.

Eswatini’s venture into the maritime industry mirrors a David versus Goliath tale, with the tiny kingdom taking on the colossal task of establishing a ship registry. The initiative is pitched as offering high-quality maritime services and the allure of ship registrations, a tempting proposition for vessels seeking the benefits of ‘flags of convenience’. These advantages include lower taxes, more lenient labor laws, and fewer regulations. However, the irony of a landlocked country hosting a maritime registry is not lost on observers, who question the viability and integrity of such an operation. Despite these doubts, Eswatini has managed to list a provisional fleet of 13 cargo ships, signaling its earnest intentions.

The intrigue surrounding Eswatini’s registry deepens with the revelation of its vessels’ involvement in supporting the Syrian regime and evading sanctions, including exporting grain from Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. This association with a ‘dark fleet’, a term coined for ships operating under the radar to bypass sanctions or conceal cargo origins, casts a long shadow over the registry’s credibility. The global maritime community watches with bated breath as Eswatini navigates these turbulent waters, attempting to reconcile its aspirations with the harsh realities of international scrutiny and the potential for environmental and regulatory disasters.

In response to growing concerns, diplomatic efforts and proposals for tighter regulations have emerged, aiming to anchor ships more firmly to their flags of registration. These initiatives underscore the imperative for accountability and transparency in the maritime industry, especially for new entrants like Eswatini. The kingdom’s bold experiment highlights the evolving dynamics of global shipping, where innovation and ambition meet the steadfast currents of tradition and regulation. As the world watches, Eswatini’s maritime adventure unfolds, a testament to the fluid nature of international commerce and the uncharted territories it seeks to explore.

The journey of Eswatini’s ship registry, from its landlocked origins to the contentious waters of the ‘dark fleet’, encapsulates a broader narrative of aspiration and challenge. In a world where geographical limitations are increasingly blurred by global connectivity, Eswatini’s maritime endeavor stands as a bold statement of intent. Whether it will navigate to success or flounder in the depths remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the tides of change spare no one, landlocked or otherwise.

 

Record E5bn allocation for education, E3bn for health

By Sabelo Majola, Times of eSwatini, 27 February 2024

SOURCE

 

LOBAMBA: The education sector received a record high of E5 billion budget allocation while the Ministry of Health received E3 billion.

These two sectors received a combined allocation percentage of 27, with education getting 17 per cent of the overall budget and health getting 10 per cent.  The Ministry of Education and Training was allocated E3.96 billion in the 2023/24 financial year and this year’s allocation depicts a growth of 20.8 per cent. The health sector was allocated E2.76 billion in the previous financial year and this depicts a growth of eight per cent. Part of the improved budget allocation for the education sector was government’s approval of a revised fee schedule structure for free primary education.

Government, as revealed by Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg when presenting the budget speech yesterday in Parliament, also converted 794 temporary teachers to permanent and pensionable positions in the 2023/2024 financial year. He pointed out that in the 2024/2025 budget, government had allocated E65 million to continue with conversion of temporary teaching positions into permanent roles, to address teacher shortages and also contribute to the overall quality of education, providing students with a more stable and conducive learning environment. In summary, government allocated E3.94 billion in the recurrent budget, E200 million in the capital budget to the Ministry of Education and Training, E194 million in the orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC) fund and E647 million for scholarships, equalling a total of E5 billion for the provision of education and training, at all levels in the country.

This represents 17 per cent of the total budget spent on educating emaSwati. Challenges like drugs and human resource are some of the considerations that saw the Ministry of Health getting an improved budget of E3 billion. It was also in the spirit of implementing the policy of a health facility for every eight-kilometre radius across the country, that the health sector received so much in allocation. Rijkenberg highlighted that the outcry at Sibaya People’s Parliament around the problems in the Ministry of Health, as well as from the public in the submissions for the budget speech on the virtual platforms, emphasised the need for additional funding to turnaround the ministry. “For this reason, we have allocated E250 million more to the health budget, bringing it to E3 billion. This represents 10 per cent of the total budget,” he said.

Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula said he was grateful to the Finance minister for prioritising the health sector in the budget and he mentioned that they would do everything in their power to tackle the challenges in the sector. However, Matsebula mentioned that the health budget was still not reaching the 15 per cent of the overall budget as required by the UN Conventions and he was hopeful that one day, that dream would become a reality.

 

Royal government continues with Lies?

Minister Neal says they have allocated E3 billion to address health sector challenges

By Eugene Dube, Swati Newsweek 26 February,2024

SOURCE 

LOBAMBA: Neal Rikenburg, the eSwatini Minister of Finance said E3 billion has been allocated for health.

eSwatini has been battling with drugs shortage for over 17 years. Many elderly people died due to lack of treatment.

However, the regime twisted the story and claimed officers in the ministry of health were involved in scandal.

Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg announces that E3 billion has been allocated towards health, in response to ongoing challenges within the sector.

Minister Rijkenberg: “For this reason, we have allocated E250 million more to the health budget bringing it to a budget of E3 billion. This represents 10% of the total budget.

In 2006 the international organisation called Relief World their reported highlighted the drugs shortage in Swaziland. However, investigation reveals that more money goes to the Royal family in Swaziland. The Royals rely on foreign health institutions whenever they are sick.

A financial report reveals that King Mswati III and his mother Ntombi Tfwala had been allocated E431 million salaries for 2023 financial year.

The right to life is no longer guaranteed in Eswatini health facilities including government clinics and hospitals as there is massive drugs shortage.

Elderly people and the youth continue to die in local Swazi hospitals as the regime fails buying medicines and drugs on time from international drug companies.

Eswatini elderly citizens are amongst a group of patients who were turned back at local hospitals because of lack medication.

They were referred to local pharmacies by hospital medical staff. Patients are now forced to buy their medicines at local pharmacies which are expensive.

Lizzie Nkosi, Eswatini Minister of Health publicly admitted that Eswatini faces a shortage of drugs. She posted a statement on Eswatini government Facebook page.

Around 2023, King Mswati III told close to 10 000 Swazi who gathered at his Palace that health institutions had improved. However, his statement sounds has been rejected by many people.

On 03 July, 2023, Eswatini government Facebook page reported: “The minister of health Lizzie says government has met suppliers to try and forge a way forward aimed at mitigating the medicines shortages experienced by the health sector.”

The report continued, “This process is what leads to the delay in the supply of medicines. However, the Ministry of health has started supplying the available medicines and medical suppliers to the country's health facilities. As additional medicines and supplies are recieved by the central medical stores (CMS) These are also supplied to the health facilities as emergency deliveries.”

However in a previous interview Mayibongwe Masangane, the Secretary General of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU) disagrees with Minister Nkosi and insists that drugs shortage still exists.

“There are no drugs in public institutions. The crisis is persistent and seemly there is no political will to resolve it,”Masangane said.

In a 2019 news report published around November The Eswatini Ministry of Health Principal Secretary Dr. Simone Zwane was quoted as saying,” government’s challenges also affected his ministry. “The ministry of health is currently experiencing challenges of meeting the needs of patients especially the availability of medication in hospitals. Which is caused by suppliers not being paid, It’s a pity we are going through this economic challenges as a country,” said Zwane.

See also

Neal tables Sibaya-inspired E29.42bn budget

http://new.observer.org.sz/details.php?id=22091r

Budget falls short of expectations on Free Primary Education

http://www.times.co.sz/news/144087-budget-falls-short-of-expectations-on-fpe.html

eSwatini's Budget Announcement Sparks Debate Among Education and Health Sectors

https://bnnbreaking.com/world/eswatini/eswatinis-budget-announcement-sparks-debate-among-education-and-health-sectors

 

How Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Simon Zwane assisted SwaziPharm Director Kareem Ashraff to defraud State about R70million in one day amid shortage of drugs in public hospitals

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 28 February, 2024

SOURCE 

MBABANE: Dr. Simon Zwane, the then Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Health allegedly assisted SwaziPharm Director Kareem Ashraff to defraud the State through the Ministry of Health about R70million in one (1) day, a forensic investigation report reveals.

The investigation report in possession of this Swaziland News was compiled by Funduzi Forensic Services subsequent to an investigation into the shortage of drugs in public hospitals, the investigation was commissioned by Finance Minister Neal Rijikernberg through the Office of the Auditor General (AG).

It has been disclosed through the report that on or around 2nd July 2020, the Principal Secretary (PS) allegedly approved an advance payment amounting to R9,999,999.00 for Kareem Ashraff AvaPharm (Pty) Ltd.

An advance payment is the type of payment that is made before or without the delivery of good or services.

The investigation report further suggests that, the same payment was duplicated and paid six (6) times with voucher numbers 0004122,0004124, 0004125, 0004119, 000120 and 000121 bringing the total amount to R59,999,994.00

But on the very same day, the PS allegedly approved another payment amounting to R8 610 756.31 bringing the total to R68,610,750.31.

A questionnaire was sent to Dr. Simon Zwane who was later transferred to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, however, he had not responded at the time of compiling this report.

“The above payments were motivated on the basis of an invoice received from Avapharm dated 17 June 2020 and signed off by the Principal Secretary (PS), Dr. Simon Zwane to the Accountant-General. The copy of the Invoice is annexed hereto and marked Exhibit 16.Based on the conventions for the processing of payments in Government, we were advised that each payment has its own batch number and therefore it would be irregular to process more than one payment on the basis of one batch number. The only rationale for processing more than one payment tied to one batch number would be to hide the true nature of the payment in circumstances akin to fraud. The payment batch reflecting the same batch number for the multiple payments above is attached herewith and marked Exhibit 17. Based on this,it is apparent that Avapharm would have been unduly enriched at the expense of the Government. This overpayment which constitutes fraudulent payment, should be recovered from Avapharm (Pty) Ltd and the Public Officials involved, disciplined accordingly”, reads the investigation report in part.

To read more of this report, click here

https://swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=6119

 

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 813 – 9 February 2024

 

Swaziland Newsletter No. 813 – 9 February 2024

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.

 

16 people wanted by cops for unrest terrorist acts

By Mbongiseni Ndzimandze, Times of eSwatini, 6 February 2024

SOURCE

 

MBABANE - At least 16 people are wanted by the police in connection with alleged terrorist activities committed during the civil unrest in 2021 and 2022.

According to the police, on the list of those who are at large, are security officers and civilians who were employed. They are alleged to have abandoned their different occupations, homes and children after they were made aware that they were wanted in connection with terrorism offences. They are believed to be hiding outside the Kingdom of Eswatini. The number of the people who are now of interest to the police is contained in court papers where the prosecution is strongly opposing the bail application of the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) student, who was arrested for alleged terrorist activities committed during the civil unrest in 2021 and 2022.

The student, Mayibongwe Pupu Nyawo (20) of Siphofaneni, is the 23rd person to be arrested and charged under the Suppression of Terrorism Act, for crimes that were committed during the unrest. He is accused of the same offences as Bonginkhosi ‘Bongo’ Nkambule and Menzi Bhembe, who were arrested in the past two weeks. Nkambule is a member of the Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS). The trio is alleged to have burnt a police car at the Mbabane Government Hospital and a national flag at UNESWA Mbabane Campus, during a students’ march to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security on September 30, 2022. So far, none of the 23 accused persons have been granted bail. Detective Collen Mazibuko, who works under the Criminal Investigations Department (Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit), told the court that it would not be in the interest of justice to release Nyawo on bail. 

He alleged that in the event the accused was released on bail, he would flee the country and join those who were wanted by the police. Mazibuko told the court that the overwhelming evidence, coupled with the likelihood of being convicted, as well as the heavy custodial sentence, would entice the accused to escape the jurisdiction. “About 16 of the accused persons who participated in the terrorist acts are at large and out of the court’s jurisdiction,” submitted the investigator. He averred that in the event that Nyawo was released on bail, he was likely to join them as they seemed to have many sympathisers, who were readily available to sponsor their stay in the foreign jurisdiction.

According to the investigating officer, Nyawo could fit easily in a foreign jurisdiction, as he was still young and could be able to enrol at any university and continue with his education. It was further his contention that it would be easy for Nyawo to flee the jurisdiction as he was unemployed, without assets, but just a student.   Detective Mazibuko also averred that the accused was likely to interfere with and influence two independent Crown witnesses, who accompanied the police during point-outs. “It is submitted that the applicant’s (Nyawo) release on bail will, therefore, endanger the lives of the witnesses, mostly because he is aware of who was present when they torched the police van. He can easily reach to them directly or indirectly, through those in solidarity with overthrowing the current government,” he argued.   

He implored the court not to release the applicant on bail, as he would allegedly endanger the safety of the public. The investigator pointed out that during the march, the applicant failed to heed orders of the Hhohho Police Operations officer, when he instructed them to disperse and return home. It was alleged by the investigating officer that the applicant was able to threaten to assault a police officer, who was in full uniform, before allegedly setting alight the police van. “So clearly granting him bail will undermine or jeopardise the objectives or the proper functioning of the criminal justice system, inclusive of the bail system,” submitted the law enforcer. He added that the allegation that the applicant was a student at UNESWA did not make him entitled to being granted bail.

He said even though the applicant alleged that he would be sitting an examination, he did not take the court into his confidence by stating the exact date. He highlighted that the applicant and his co-accused were facing charges of terrorism, arising from the civil unrest and that the objective of same was to bring about an unlawful regime change. “The blanket statement is a result of the fact that he was writing no test and that no examination is commencing on February 24, 2024. Such has been alleged to mislead the court,” argued the investigator. The bail application is pending before Judge Nkosinathi Maseko and appearing for the applicant is Noncedo Ndlangamandla. The Crown is represented by Mxolisi Dlamini from the chamber of the director of public prosecutions (DPP).

 

SWAGAA Director says organization spending more money on victims amid collapsed health system, urges Senators to support looming motion seeking to declare GBV a national disaster

By Bongiwe Dlamini, Swaziland News, 7 February, 2024

SOURCE 

MBABANE: Nonhlanhla Dlamini, the Executive Director of the Eswatini Action Group Against Abuse (SWAGAA) says the human rights organization is spending more money providing health care to some victims of violence.

Responding to this Swaziland News on Wednesday, the Director said, some victims of violence arrive at SWAGAA in urgent need of medication and organization found itself with no alternative but to assist.

“With the shortage of drugs in hospitals, you cannot then dump the victim and sometimes we find ourselves buying medication for the victims. That’s why we are urging Government to declare Gender Based Violence (GBV) a national disaster so that the country can allocate resources to fight domestic violence. We also urge Senators to support the looming motion seeking to declare GBV as a national disaster and should the motion pass, Cabinet is requested to implement it”, said the SWAGAA when speaking to editor Zweli Martin Dlamini.

On another note, some Senators and Members of Parliament (MPs) told this publication that, they will support efforts to declare GBV as a national disaster including supporting a motion.

 

eSwatini prepared to treat cholera - PM

By Bongiwe Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 3 February 2024

SOURCE 

Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini says Eswatini is highly-prepared to treat cholera in the event the disease manifest itself in the kingdom.

He said this yesterday on behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III in a speech during a virtual SADC Extra-ordinary Summit on the cholera outbreak.

At the summit, Dlamini presented a report on Eswatini’s cholera situation, wherein he said the country had not yet recorded any case this year.

However, the prime minister noted that the country recorded only two cholera cases in 2023, and that the bacteria was successfully contained through support from international partners, as well as other interventions.

On the cholera response, Dlamini stated that the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Africa Region Office afforded Eswatini technical assistance. In addition, the premier said health workers along with laboratory personnel at national and regional levels were trained on how to diagnose, isolate and treat cholera patients.

“We also received a stock pile of equipment for cholera use, which includes cholera beds, spraying kits, testing kits and protective wear to protect our health personnel from contracting this infectious disease,” he asserted.

Further, the prime minister said not having any recorded cholera case this year did not mean the country is out of the woods yet.

“We are cognizant of the fact that even though we have no recorded cases as yet in 2024, we remain at risk and therefore we support a regional approach to fighting cholera,” he said.

Also, Dlamini said Eswatini, with assistance from Africa Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and WHO Africa Region Office, conducted a national simulation exercise (SIMEX) for cholera and it placed the country at 72 per cent in terms of readiness for this epidemic.

“We are currently embarked on an exercise to assess the extent of health facility readiness. We have also procured medicine through emergency procurement,” added Dlamini.

On behalf of His Majesty’s government, Dlamini expressed his gratitude to international partners who have pledged support to the region in the fight agaisnt cholera.

On another note, the prime minister mentioned the saddening news of a Liswati student who died of cholera while in Zambia. Dlamini expressed gratitude to the republics of Zambia and South Africa for their cooperation as preparation for the repatriation of the deceased body is made.

To SADC member states where lives were lost due to the cholera epidemic, the premier, on behalf of Their Majesties and citizens of Eswatini conveyed his deepest condolences.

“The Kingdom of Eswatini welcomes and appreciates the contents of the report on cholera. We regret to learn of the slow pace at which the interventions and recommendations to contain this global emergency are implemented.

“We would like to urge ourselves to accelerate implementation so as to prevent the spread of the bacteria and protect our people,” he said.

Dlamini concluded by expressing Eswatini’s support for the appointment of His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema as the Regional Cholera Champion to spearhead the fight against cholera in the region.

“We believe in your leadership and the experience amassed by your country in the fight against cholera, we will successfully eliminate this epidemic in the region,” Dlamini said.

See also 

Your stomach bug is not cholera

http://www.times.co.sz/news/143720-your-stomach-bug-is-not-cholera-health.html

 

EmaSwati must unite and take government to court for the medical and education crises

Swaziland Liberation Movement media statement, 8 February 2024

SOURCE 

The Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) calls on all EmaSwati to unite and take the government of Eswatini to court for the continued shortage of medical supplies in the medical sector which has sure led to thousands of deaths and affected thousands of families and livelihoods. This must be done alongside a prayer for government to recognise the now abandoned responsibility on Free Primary Education to all EmaSwati school going kids.

EmaSwati have painfully endured this horrendous ordeal while king Mswati 111’s government continued to shift goal posts when it was very evident that fraud and corruption had taken place leading to glaring and extreme shortages of drugs in the country’s hospitals and health centers yet not even a single face has faced justice for this anomaly while we died and suffered from diseases.

Every death and health deterioration that happened on EmaSwati during this period was as a result of a careless government that does not honor its obligations and thrives on lies and empty promises. This act by the Eswatini government when diagnosed well, points to treason by all involved.

On the one hand, the government of this country has renegaded on its responsibility to ensure Free Primary Education (FPE) and graduate to also the High School level as many parents are left to themselves to foot the bills at schools to ensure that their kids get an education. This happens while kids of those in power get scholarships to study in upmarket schools while the kid of a commoner is left burdened by expensive school fees.

EmaSwati must not hesitate, but bring these matters to court soon. All fronts of the liberation struggle must be active and not once should we seek to abondon any. In as much as the courts remain strangled by the monarch, we have responsibility to seek redress in the courts as a means to an end.

If we stand up and face the State in court we will be honoring our late leader Thulani Maseko who never cowered from taking authority to court for every power abuse. We are the generation that must never leave any stone unturned until we attain all the freedoms we seek and democracy. It is up to us now!

Issued by: Thantaza N Silolo, SWALIMO Spokesperson.

 

“Come here only if you will pay from your pocket, wait for August if funded by Government”, financially struggling University of eSwatini (UNESWA) tells first year students

By Zweli Martin Dlamini, Swaziland News, 2 February, 2024

SOURCE 

KWALUSENI: The Administration of the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) has informed all first year students that, only those paying from their own pockets will commence their studies and those who secured scholarships from Government have been told to wait until the August 2024 intake.

In a text message sent to the University students this week, the Administration further informed the students that, this resolution was adopted by the University Senate.

“UNESWA applicants who were admitted for the 2023/2024 academic year, are hereby advised that Senate has resolved that the 2023/2024 academic year should commence on the 15 April 2024. Orientation is scheduled to start on 15 April 2024.Registration starts on 18 April 2024 and classes will commence on 22 April 2024."

Reached for comments, Gabie Ndukuya, the President of the Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) said, the purpose of the enrolling the first year students in April 2024 “is to collect funds” to mitigate the ongoing financial crisis within the institution of higher learning.

“The truth is; all the students will start in August 2024 but they are trying to collect money from the self-funded students to mitigate the ongoing financial crisis within the institution. Once they pay, they might find ways to tell them to start in August with the other Government funded students”, said the Students President.

Reached for comments, Dr. Salebona Simelane, the Registrar of the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) confirmed knowledge of the gradual intake but, he promised to share more details with this publication at the later stage.

“It’s that some students will start in April but, will come back to you Nkhosi later with more details how this will work”, said the UNESWA Registrar.

The Registrar then came back with a press statement confirming the decision for the gradual intake with a few changes.

“The University would like to make the following announcement with respect to an adjustment to an earlier announcement made regarding the enrolment of new first year students and the commencement of their classes in 2024:Classes for the admitted first-year full-time students, classes for the Institute of Post-Graduate Studies students and part-time classes for the admitted Institute of Distance Education (IDE) students who will pay their tuition and related fees shall commence on Monday, 15" April, 2024;Classes for the admitted first-year Mbabane Campus students who will pay their tuition and related fees shall commence on Monday,1 2 ‘February, 2024; and a second group of students who will not be able to enrol in April, 2024 shall enrol in August, 2024.Any inconvenience caused is regretted”, reads the statement in part.

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Swaziland Newsletter No. 811 – 26 January 2024

 

Swaziland Newsletter No. 811 – 26 January 2024

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.

 

No justice for murder of eSwatini activist

By Nomathamsanqa Masiko-Mpaka, Human Rights Watch

SOURCE 

January 21 [2024] marks one year since human rights lawyer and opposition activist Thulani Maseko was brutally killed in his home in front of his wife and two young children in Eswatini. Maseko championed democratic reforms in Eswatini and played a key role in the country’s transitional political process amid widespread protests in June 2021.

One year later, Maseko’s killers have yet to be apprehended and there is no indication that the government has undertaken a credible investigation, despite a government statement on December 29, 2023, that the police are prioritizing Maseko’s murder and the killings of others following the June 2021 civil unrest.

Instead of providing answers to his family, the government’s statement made untrue, accusatory and defamatory remarks against Maseko’s widow, Tanele Maseko. This came after Tanele delivered a speech accepting the Outstanding Human Rights Lawyer Award on behalf of her late husband at the 2023 Magnitsky Human Rights Award.

In her speech, Tanele spoke of the trauma she and her children experienced watching their husband and father killed before their eyes. She blamed King Mswati III for her husband’s killing and called for people to join the #JusticeForThulani campaign and support the Thulani Maseko Foundation, which continues Maseko’s legacy of promoting human rights and democracy in Eswatini.

Hours before Maseko’s murder, King Mswati III warned those calling for democratic reforms that mercenaries would deal with them. The government has denied allegations of involvement in Maseko’s killing.

Since his brutal murder, Eswatini’s regional and international partners and civil society organizations have repeatedly called on the government to conduct an independent, thorough, and impartial investigation. If investigations are indeed underway, as the government says, they should ensure transparency and accountability for the family instead of intimidating Maseko’s widow, who is merely seeking answers for her husband’s killing. 

See also

Eswatini authorities accused of attempting to silence Justice for Thulani campaign

https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2024-01-19-eswatini-authorities-accused-of-attempting-to-push-back-and-silence-justice-for-thulani-campaign-and-widow/

 

Govt cuts communication with Zwemart, ‘Swaziland News’

By Ntombi Mhlongo, eSwatini News, 20 January 2024

SOURCE 

MBABANE: Despite having declared him a terrorist over a year ago, it is only yesterday that government cut communication ties with Editor Zweli Dlamini and his online publication, the Swaziland News.

The cutting of the ties means that government employees, in their official capacity, and chief executive officers (CEOs) of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) or parastatals are no longer expected to entertain the two and government will monitor if there is compliance regarding the issue.

Through a press statement issued by Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo, government notified the nation of its position to discontinue, with immediate effect, communication with certain proscribed entities, particularly Dlamini and the online publication. Interestingly, the spokesperson is reported to have recently applauded the editor for giving government a platform to offer clarity on certain issues.

In the statement issued yesterday, Nxumalo said Dlamini and his publication were declared ‘specified entities’ through Legal No.261 of 2022 in line with the Suppression of Terrorism Act, 2008 in that they allegedly ‘knowingly facilitated the commission of terrorist acts’.

Such a stand has happened 17 months after the declaration of the two being terrorist entities was made. It was in June 2022 that government, through the then Prime Minister Cleopas Sipho Dlamini, made the declaration and branded Dlamini and his publication terrorist entities for among other things allegedly threatening to kill police officers and instigating violence.

The declaration was made in terms of the Section 28 (2) of the Suppression of Terrorism Act 2008. But despite that the former PM said the declaration was with immediate effect, government, through its departments and subsidiary enterprises entertained the editor in various ways, including responding to questionnaires he sent or interviews he set up to balance his articles.

In particular, the Office of the Government Spokesperson, Alpheous Nxumalo, gave the online editor his attention.

Besides Nxumalo, the King’s Office, through Director of Communications Percy Simelane, entertained the online editor and this gave the insinuation that government continued to recognise him as a journalist.

In the press statement announcing the cutting of the communication ties, Nxumalo said government had since issued a circular memorandum to all government ministries, advising all its officials and employees to desist from communicating and or responding in any form or method to such entities and individuals, including on social media platform facebook and others.

To read more of this report, click here

http://www.times.co.sz/news/143537-govt-cuts-communication-with-zwemart-swaziland-news.html

 

See also

Govt amplifies ban on Zwemart, Swaziland News

http://new.observer.org.sz/details.php?id=21886

OPINION: Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo desperate to have his expiring contract renewed, stopping public officials from commenting will not prevent publication of stories.

https://swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=5905

Govt ‘regrets’ Percy’s reaction to Zwemart ban

http://www.times.co.sz/news/143552-govt-%E2%80%98regrets%E2%80%99-percy%E2%80%99s-reaction-to-zwemart-ban.html

 

Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) member Bongnkosi Nkambule charged with terrorism as Mswati intensifies crackdown against pro-democracy activists who were leading political unrest

By Bongiwe Dlamini, Swaziland News, 19 January, 2024

SOURCE 

MBABANE: Bongnkosi ‘Bongo’ Nkambule, a member of the Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) has been charged with terrorism as King Mswati’s Government intensifies crackdown against pro-democracy activists, University students and human rights defenders who were leading the recent political unrest.

Nkambule who appeared in court this week, has been arrested and charged for allegedly burning a police vehicle and a national flag, the State alleges that this, amounts to terrorism.

The CPS is one of the most active political parties on the ground in the fight against King Mswati’s autocratic rule.

Political parties are banned in eSwatini and human rights defenders and independent journalists are arrested, tortured or even killed for demanding democracy.

In January 2023, King Mswati allegedly unleashed his mercenaries and security forces to assassinate human rights lawyer Thulani Rudolf, the Chairperson of the pro-democracy MultiStakeholder Forum (MSF).

 

Don’t open schools, parents back SNAT

By Sifiso Nhlabatsi, eSwatini Observer, 22 January 2024

SOURCE 

Parents have backed the Swaziland National Association of Teachers in calling for schools opening to be delayed.

The Eswatini Schools Committee and Parents Association (ESCAPA) in a press briefing with SNAT yesterday reiterated the teachers call because there were a number of issues that government must first address.

Among the main issues discussed was the call for an Education Indaba where everyone would present his side.

SNAT revealed that it had an axe to grind with the Examinations Council of Eswatini, issues which could be discussed and addressed if an Education Indaba was held.

Other issues include the introduction of Free Primary Education in Grade Zero, hiring of teachers and paying contract teachers have been raised by SNAT before when making their first call to delay the opening of schools.

Schools are expected to open tomorrow for the first term of the academic year.

Representing parents were the ESCAPA President, Cedric Chirwa and Deputy President, Sisana Mamba while SNAT was represented by its President, Mbongwa Dlamini and Secretary General, Lot Vilakati.

The organisations also revolved that they would today visit the ministry of education and training where they intend tabling their concerns on why schools should not be opened tomorrow.    The ESCAPA deputy president said despite reports that government had started disbursing orphaned and vulnerable children funds, when she checked her account nothing reflected as the balance was from the schools coffers since last year.

“Overgrown vegetation is still a constant sight in most schools and many other issues, which shows the poor state of preparedness in schools. It is totally incorrect that government has disbursed OVC funds to schools,” Mamba said.

She said children should not go to school hungry.

The deputy president said children had performed poorly and teachers were blamed yet they could not work.  “I do not see teachers achieving quality education while schools are still faced with the challenges they are facing now,” Mamba stated.  She said by the look of things government was not ready to open schools.

“We need enough teachers in schools not robots,” she further stated. This was in response to government wanting to introduce artificial intelligence onto the education system.  The robot will deliver educational content, provide personalised instruction, and facilitate learning experiences.
lamented

The ESCAPA president decried that stakeholders should have been consulted on this.

Parents further lamented the four-year high school programme saying it was not properly introduced.

The ministry of education has introduced the programme in 32 schools as a pilot project.

The project aims to establish if learners could successfully complete the Eswatini General Certificate of Secondary Education in four years instead of five.  

Chirwa went on to state that before the programme was implemented there was a need to engage in thorough discussions with the relevant stakeholders.

“It does not help for you to just come and implement or shove a project down our throats yet claim we are on board in these issues,” he stated.

To read more of this report, click here

http://new.observer.org.sz/details.php?id=21888

 

eSwatini law students champion justice

By Adekunle Owolabi, Diplomatic Watch, 20 January 2024

SOURCE 

MBABANE: Law students at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) are embarking on a journey to uphold human rights and carry the torch of non-violent activism, thanks to a collaborative initiative by the U.S. Embassy, the Coalition of Atinga NGOs (CANGO), and UNESWA’s Legal Aid Clinic.

The initiative, fueled by the inspiring legacy of celebrated human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko, aims to equip students with the knowledge and passion to champion justice for the most vulnerable. Through engaging events and workshops, students are exploring career paths in human rights law and learning to navigate the complexities of advocating for fundamental freedoms.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with UNESWA and CANGO in nurturing the next generation of human rights defenders,” stated CDA Piper of the U.S. Embassy. “UNESWA’s Legal Aid Clinic plays a vital role in ensuring access to justice for those who need it most, and this initiative further strengthens the foundation for a just and equitable society in Eswatini.”

A recent event saw students join forces with CANGO, the Multi-Stakeholder Forum, and the Legal Aid Clinic to screen the #MLK55 documentary. This powerful film sparked discussions on creating safe spaces for open dialogue about human rights, fostering a culture of community service, empowering youth, and promoting tolerance.

“The #MLK55 screening ignited a fire within us,” shared Sabelo Dlamini, a UNESWA law student participating in the initiative. “It’s not just about studying the law; it’s about using it as a tool to transform lives and build a better future for Eswatini.”

 

Ashraf lifts lid on health crisis

By Sibusiso Dlamini, eSwatini Observer, 24 January 2024

SOURCE 

Swazi Pharm Director Kareem Ashraf has blown the whistle on the health crisis, describing it as 'self-created'.

The crisis, according to Ashraf, was not only about shortages, but also about mismanagement and what he termed ‘criminal negligence’ within the ministry of health.
Ashraf said the situation was critical and therefore, immediate action was imperative to prevent further loss of lives.

The businessman questioned the decision-making processes that perpetuated this cycle, decrying that it leaves companies like Swazi Pharm in a precarious situation.

The heart of his complaint centred on government orders being placed with suppliers lacking stock, often at exorbitant costs, while leaving suppliers with stocked inventory at the agreed-upon tender prices.

Ashraf, who took over ownership of the pharmaceutical distribution company and long-time supplier of medicinal drugs to government last year, made this assertion during a handover event of a donation of E1.8 million worth of drugs to the health ministry, which he said was the company's contribution to dealing with the prevailing lack of crucial medications in public health facilities.

The health crisis has led to a public outcry, prompting government to initiate a forensic audit investigation into alleged irregularities concerning the requisition, acquisition, and distribution of medicinal drugs to public health facilities.

The businessman recognised government's attempts to implement short and long-term strategies, but took a critical turn, exposing what he deemed a 'self-created' crisis.
“We wonder why Emaswati's lives are being put at such risk when medical drugs are stocked at suppliers?” he said.

The businessman said they were troubled that hospitals were grappling with a surge in infant mortality rates when the company was awarded an intensive care tender intended for maternity and ICU use in neonates and infants worth E80 million.

To read more of this report, click here.

http://new.observer.org.sz/details.php?id=21897

 

Hunger crisis: ‘Now I can take care of my own family’

News and Press Release International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, 23 January 2024

SOURCE 

A three-year partnership with the EU in the southern African nation of Eswatini is improving food security through cash assistance, climate-smart farming and epidemic prevention

In the Lubombo region of Eswatini, near the town of Big Bend, 39-year-old Bongani Masuku looks over at his field of maize. He just harvested a section last week.

“But there is still work to do,” Bongani says and starts working the land.

Lubombo is one of the hottest areas in Eswatini. As Bongani weeds his field, the temperature has already risen to over 34 degrees.

“I remove the weeds so that my maize will grow properly,” he says. “If I let the weeds take over, the seedlings would grow to be very thin and not offer good harvest.”

Earlier in the season, Bongani attended an agricultural training, after which he received a cash grant of around 70 euros. He invested the money in maize seeds that are more resilient to drought, as climate change has made rains more irregular and increased drought.

Around 70 per cent of Eswatini’s population are directly dependent on agriculture for their livelihood. This is why the changing weather conditions are extremely concerning.

“The recent heatwaves have really made farming more difficult. The maize should not receive too much sunlight when it is blooming. Rain is important at that stage. The last time the maize was in bloom there was no rain at all, so my harvest was smaller than I expected.”

The maize field has a great significance to Bongani. “This allows me to feed my family, but also to sell some of the crops and get money,” he adds. “This money helps me put my children to school. I have five children with my darling wife. Now I can buy them schoolbooks and other school supplies, like pens. If I make enough money, I can also buy them shoes to wear to school.”

Like elsewhere in Southern Africa, people in Eswatini are suffering from a severe and prolonged food security crisis that began in 2015.

The drought caused by the El Niño phenomenon, further strengthened by climate change and the irregular rains and floods ever since, have damaged harvests year after year.

Bongani is one of the 25,500 people included in the three-year project funded by the European Union to improve food security by means of cash assistance. In addition to the Finnish Red Cross, the project includes the Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society and Belgian Red Cross Flanders.

To read more of this report, click here

https://reliefweb.int/organization/ifrc

 

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