AGP Executive Report

Taiwan Diplomacy: Eswatini’s new ambassador to Taiwan, Vulindlela Kunene, formally began his tenure in Taipei, reiterating that the kingdom will keep pushing for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations, arguing global crises can’t be handled while Taiwan is excluded. Citizen Economic Empowerment: Parliamentarians in Mbabane scrutinised draft Citizens Economic Empowerment Regulations, including proposals to reserve parts of retail for targeted citizens and bar foreign businesses from operating on Swazi Nation Land, while also discussing a 50% government procurement set-aside for citizen-owned firms. Housing & Local Contractors: MPs rejected appointing a foreign main contractor for the E2.4bn National Housing and Infrastructure Programme, urging the loan-funded project be split to benefit emaSwati-owned construction companies and SMEs. Health Oversight Clash: The Luke Commission (TLC) filed an urgent High Court application claiming it is being singled out and harassed over alleged malpractice, while “worst-performing” public facilities face less scrutiny. Education Pressure Points: As external exams begin, schools report readiness; meanwhile, education leaders at PACTED 2026 urged governments to fix what’s failing children and turn teacher commitments into real reforms. Agriculture & Climate Seeds: Eswatini hosted Africa’s Seed Summit 2026, where ministers warned seed supply must not be used as a political weapon and stressed indigenous, climate-ready seed systems. Regional Security & Crime: South Africa’s Operation Vala Umgodi arrested 22 suspected illegal miners in Mpumalanga, including one Eswatini national, with suspects facing court on mining and immigration-related charges.

Citizen Economy Push: MPs in Eswatini scrutinised draft regulations under the Citizen Economic Empowerment Act, including a proposal that no foreign business may operate on Swazi Nation Land, as lawmakers focus on shifting ownership and control of the economy to emaSwati. New Taiwan Envoy: Ambassador Vulindlela Kunene formally began his tenure in Taiwan, pledging deeper cooperation in health, education, skills, investment and energy, and urging Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international bodies. AU Seed Summit Momentum: Delegates and ministers arrived at the Ezulwini Palazzo for the AU Extraordinary Seed Summit, with Eswatini’s leadership stressing climate-resilient seed systems and the need to turn seed policy into working seed markets. Food Prices Watch: Eswatini’s Competition Commission reported mostly stable essential food prices between August and September, with notable increases for onions and some bean packs. Local Safety Outreach: Royal Eswatini Police Service delivered school safety lessons at Mother Touch Primary in Mbabane, covering sexual abuse prevention, drug risks, road safety and expected police conduct. Construction Local Content Concern: The Construction Industry Council warned that foreign contractors dominated registered construction value in 2025/26, raising fears of weaker skills transfer and reduced local economic benefits. Royal and Regional Ties: King Mswati III commended Lesotho’s role in regional integration during Lesotho’s diamond jubilee celebrations, highlighting shared history and cooperation.

Taiwan Diplomacy: Eswatini’s new ambassador to Taiwan, Vulindlela Simphiwe Kunene, says Mbabane will keep pushing for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations, citing fairness and practical cooperation, and pointing to Taiwan-backed rural electrification. US Third-Country Deportations: A Reuters investigation says at least 40 LGBT migrants granted US legal protection were deported to African countries where same-sex relations are criminalised or where abuses are documented; separate reporting highlights a Laotian deportee, Phone Chomsavanh, released from Eswatini’s Matsapha prison after more than a year under the Trump third-country programme. Regional Royal Diplomacy: King Mswati III used Lesotho’s 60th independence celebrations to praise Lesotho’s role in Southern African integration and peacekeeping, while also reaffirming “sister monarchies” ties with Basotho. Local Economy & Governance: The Construction Industry Council warns foreign contractors took 55% of Eswatini’s registered construction value in 2025/26, raising concerns about skills transfer and local participation. Public Finance/Business: PSPF says its Hilton Garden Inn investment is “really pumping” and is weighing a major hospitality push at Royal Swazi Spa. Court Watch: The AKA and Tibz murder trial finally begins in Durban High Court, with two suspects extradited from Eswatini. Agriculture & Food Prices: Eswatini’s food prices stayed mostly stable in August–September, though onions and some beans rose. Youth & Jobs: ENYC recognises 89 young people for TVET toolkit support to turn skills into income. Sports/Culture: Over 1,200 delegates have registered for the AU Regional Seed Summit in Ezulwini, and the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games torch arrives in Eswatini ahead of Maputo.

US–Eswatini immigration fallout: A Laotian man deported by the US to Eswatini under the “third-country” programme was released after more than a year in the Matsapha Correctional Complex, with his lawyer saying he was never charged and was only told of the transfer shortly before arrival. Regional monarchy diplomacy: King Mswati III used Lesotho’s 60th independence celebrations to reaffirm “sister monarchies” ties, including naming a Mbabane road after King Moshoeshoe II, while King Letsie III praised the bond with Eswatini. US–Zimbabwe reset: Reports say President Trump is set to send a delegation to Zimbabwe for talks with President Mnangagwa, following UNGA-side meetings. Eswatini governance & oversight: Senate President Pastor Lindiwe Dlamini received a Global-South–EU leadership award in Brussels for strengthening legislative oversight and women’s empowerment. Local economy & services: Eswatini’s Central Bank says it has funded forensic and asset-tracing work to recover losses linked to Ecsponent investors, including investigations into assets allegedly moved to South Africa. Community impacts: Residents in Mbikwakhe say unsafe stream water has become their main drinking source after a borehole pump failure.

Zimbabwe–Eswatini political links under strain: Zimbabwe tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife died in a helicopter crash near Marondera, triggering shock from President Mnangagwa and renewed scrutiny of his wealth, ties to ruling elites, and a legal fight over a reported US$25m estate. Regional youth & culture: Eswatini received the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games torch, with officials saying athletes aim for medals in Maputo; meanwhile, the October International Theatre Festival brought 150+ artists for masterclasses and performances, with funding flagged as a major hurdle for producers. Governance & accountability: Eswatini’s Central Bank says it is funding forensic and asset-tracing work to recover Ecsponent investor losses, including investigations into assets allegedly moved to South Africa. Local economy pressures: Eswatini is importing cement/concrete building blocks despite local production, raising concerns about tendering and cash-flow strain. Sports & society: The Imbube Marathon is set for a record field (8,136 registered); and Sakha Live FM appointed Wilson B. Nkosi as board chair as it ramps up operations.

Zimbabwe crash and fallout: Zimbabwean tycoon Wicknell Chivayo, 43, and his wife Lucy were killed in a helicopter crash near Harare; Zimbabwe aviation investigators say fuel spilled on impact and a fire followed, while police counts differ on the number of occupants. Wealth scrutiny: Chivayo’s reported US$25m estate has triggered fresh online questions after reports of a Supreme Court divorce/asset dispute being removed from the court roll. Eswatini governance: MPs passed the EPTC loan Bill to support the financially distressed Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation, with management assuring no retrenchments—though workers’ letters have raised fears. Local politics: Seven candidates vie for a vacant bucopho seat in Manzini by-elections; vetting comes first, with campaigning set to start Oct 6. Public services: Central Bank of Eswatini says it is funding legal, forensic and asset-tracing work to recover losses linked to Ecsponent investors, including assets allegedly moved to South Africa. Community safety: In Lubombo, a 53-year-old grave was reportedly dug up, exposing remains and clothing, shocking residents and prompting police involvement. International pressure on flights: A US senator warned China’s tactics to restrict Taiwanese presidential flights could endanger international travellers, citing delays affecting Eswatini’s diplomatic links. Economy and development: Eswatini’s GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, and Ezulwini Municipality reported revenue up to E69.5m with a E41m surplus.

Manzini By-Election: Seven candidates have been nominated to contest one vacant bucopho seat after the death of the late bucopho for St Paul’s. The Elections and Boundaries Commission confirmed two women and five men, but campaigning only starts after vetting; qualified candidates are set to begin campaigning on October 6, 2026. Theatre & Diplomacy: More than 150 artists from South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Botswana arrived for the October International Theatre Festival in Mbabane, with masterclasses and performances aimed at building skills and strengthening regional ties. Ecsponent Recovery: The Central Bank of Eswatini says it has funded legal, forensic and asset-tracing work to recover Ecsponent investor losses, including investigations into assets allegedly moved to South Africa, with wider tracing potentially costing E6m–E8m. Local Governance & Services: In Mbikwakhe, over 300 residents say they’ve been forced to drink from a muddy stream since June after a borehole pump failed and borehole water was declared unsafe. Court & Corruption: A Home Affairs civil registrar accused of issuing Eswatini IDs to a South African crime figure appeared in court, where the magistrate ordered her not to cover her face. Economy: Eswatini’s real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, with primary, secondary and tertiary sectors all expanding year-on-year. International Watch: A U.S. senator warned that China-linked restrictions on Taiwanese presidential flights could endanger international travellers.

Central Bank Recovery Effort: The Central Bank of Eswatini says it has funded legal, forensic and asset-tracing work to recover money linked to Ecsponent investors, including investigations into assets allegedly moved to South Africa, with a possible wider probe into multiple jurisdictions estimated at E6m–E8m and 8–12 months. Parliament & Public Services: MPs passed the EPTC loan Bill to support the financially distressed Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation, with management assuring there are no plans for retrenchments—though workers’ retrenchment letters remain a concern. Education & Skills Recognition: A parliamentary committee wants Sebenta National Institute qualifications properly recognised and made portable beyond Eswatini, while addressing stigma and ensuring competency testing. Local Government Finance: Ezulwini Municipality reported revenue rising to E69.5m and a E41m surplus in 2025/26, alongside infrastructure and service delivery gains. Economy Watch: Eswatini’s real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, with primary, secondary and tertiary sectors expanding year-on-year. International Diplomacy: Eswatini welcomed its first resident FAO representative in Mbabane and reaffirmed a deepening 58-year partnership with Taiwan, including plans for a strategic fuel reserve. Sports & Culture: EFA bought a GWM bakkie worth over E600k for FIFA’s talent pathway coach; and the October International Theatre Festival opened in Mbabane with training for young performers.

Zimbabwe Wealth & Power: Flamboyant tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy Muteke were killed in a helicopter crash near Marondera, with Zimbabwe aviation investigators reporting fuel spilled on impact and a fire followed; the death renews scrutiny of a wealthy elite tied to ruling circles. Eswatini Economy: The Central Statistical Office says real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, with primary, secondary and tertiary sectors expanding year-on-year. UN Diplomacy: King Mswati III renewed Africa’s push for a permanent UN Security Council seat, arguing decisions affect the continent while it lacks representation. Eswatini–Taiwan Ties: Mbabane and Taipei pledged deeper cooperation for the next 58 years, including a Strategic Fuel Reserve and an industrial innovation park. Local Governance & Jobs: MPs passed the EPTC loan Bill after assurances there are no plans to retrench staff, though retrenchment letters have already been issued. Education & Skills: A parliamentary committee urged Sebenta National Institute qualifications to be properly recognised and made portable beyond Eswatini. Labour & Politics: SNAT’s new president warned leaders to keep the trade union separate from political parties. Cybersecurity: ESCCOM was designated the national cybersecurity agency and urged stronger protection as digital reliance grows.

Eswatini–FAO Deal: Eswatini officially welcomed its first locally based Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) representative in Mbabane, with Foreign Affairs Minister Pholile Shakantu receiving credentials for Rosanne Marchesich—fulfilling a King Mswati III commitment to strengthen food security and climate resilience. AU Seed Summit Prep: Preparations for Eswatini’s African Union Seed Summit are gaining momentum, with 984 delegates registered for the Oct 5–7 event and 20 ministers already confirmed, despite early registration hiccups. Fuel Prices Hit Households: Eswatini announced a E3.43 per litre fuel hike from midnight Thursday, pushing ULP 95 to E29.40, diesel to E32.25 and paraffin to E25.16, citing global oil shocks and supply disruptions. Cybersecurity Push: ESCCOM was designated the national cybersecurity agency under the 2022 Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, tasked with regulation, coordination and incident response. Zimbabwe Crash Echoes Region: Zimbabwe confirmed the deaths of billionaire Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy Muteke in a helicopter crash near Marondera, with no survivors—sparking renewed scrutiny of elite wealth across the region.

UN Diplomacy: King Mswati III returned from UNGA 81 in New York, using the platform to push for stronger multilateral cooperation and renewed climate finance, while also raising Africa’s long wait for permanent UN Security Council representation. Food & Agriculture: Eswatini officially welcomed its first locally based FAO representative in Mbabane, fulfilling a 2024 royal commitment and strengthening efforts against food insecurity and malnutrition. Agriculture & Regional Trade: Preparations for the AU Seed Summit are gaining momentum, with 984 delegates already registered and 20 ministers confirmed for the Oct 5–7 meeting. Fuel Prices & Cost of Living: Government says it has spent over E613m cushioning consumers via the Strategic Oil Reserve Fund, but motorists still face a new E3.43 per litre fuel hike effective from midnight Oct 1. Cybersecurity: ESCCOM was designated as the national cybersecurity agency under the 2022 Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, with a mandate to regulate, coordinate and build capacity. Sports Governance: Eswatini’s Sihlangu head coach vacancy continues after the EFA missed its end-of-September deadline, leaving the national team without a permanent coach. Regional Economy: AfDB urged formalising Eswatini’s large informal sector to broaden the tax base and improve access to finance. Zimbabwe Shockwave: Zimbabwe tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife were killed in a helicopter crash near Marondera, intensifying scrutiny of wealth and political ties across the region.

Royal Swazi Spa Sale in Court: Eswatini’s High Court master has alleged threats could derail the Royal Swazi Spa transaction, after correspondence tied to the setting aside of a co-liquidator appointment raised fears of challenges to liquidation steps. Football Governance: The Eswatini Football Association missed its own deadline to name a new Sihlangu head coach, leaving the interim setup in place after a heavy aggregate loss to Eritrea. Immigration Overhaul: Government is moving to fast-track the Immigration Bill 2025 to replace the 1982 law, with proposed changes including stronger enforcement powers and updated border-management measures. US Deportations Spillover: The US Supreme Court cleared the way for Trump’s “third-country” deportations, with Eswatini named among destinations—while Burundi also agreed to accept some deportees under conditions. Tourism Tax Crackdown: ETA and ERS signed an MoU to tighten compliance on the 3% bed levy, targeting accommodation businesses that may not be remitting properly. Local Development Finance: Matsapha Town Council borrowed E31.7m to rehabilitate industrial roads, including drainage and pedestrian works. Arts & Culture: The October International Theatre Festival kicks off in Mbabane with cross-border mentorship and workshops. Sports Milestone: Eswatini’s Santiago “Santi” De Nobrega became the country’s first-ever FIDE Master at the Chess Olympiad.

Immigration overhaul: Eswatini is moving to fast-track the Immigration Bill 2025 to replace the 1982 Act, with reforms aimed at tackling border delays and enforcement gaps, including possible powers for officers to carry firearms and detain offenders. Tourism tax enforcement: The Eswatini Tourism Authority and Eswatini Revenue Service signed an MoU to tighten compliance on the 3% bed levy, improving information sharing and referrals for non-compliant accommodation providers. Parliament pressure on utilities and land: MPs challenged the Natural Resources and Energy minister over alleged EEC billing and consent issues for power poles on private land, while another MP warned that unresolved land laws and farm boundary disputes are driving some citizens to take matters into their own hands. Regional diplomacy: The Prime Minister met Tanzania’s ambassador to strengthen cooperation across education, tourism and politics, including SADC security and defence coordination. Sports and culture: Pitso Mosimane returns to Egypt for the Afcon qualifier against Eritrea, while Eswatini’s October International Theatre Festival kicks off in Mbabane with cross-border mentorship and young talent. Business and development: Matsapha Town Council borrowed E31.7m for industrial road rehabilitation, and EU/ITC support is training 17 local trainers to help exporters use market intelligence. US deportations ripple: The US Supreme Court lifted limits on “third-country” deportations, with Eswatini named among destinations, as Burundi said it will accept some deportees under strict conditions.

US Deportation Ruling: The US Supreme Court has lifted a block on Donald Trump’s “third-country” deportations, allowing removals to countries where migrants have no ties, while the case continues to be argued in December; rights groups and UN experts warn the policy is triggering a cascade of abuses, including torture and trafficking risks, with Eswatini named among destinations. Local Infrastructure Finance: In Matsapha, the Town Council has borrowed E31.7m from Standard Bank Eswatini to rehabilitate 3.2km of industrial roads, adding drainage and walkways, as traffic and backlog pressures grow. Parliament on Power Billing: MPs challenged the Natural Resources and Energy minister over alleged EEC practices of erecting poles on private land and charging relocation fees, with the minister citing existing consent procedures. Land Disputes Warning: A Gege MP warned that unresolved farm boundaries and land laws are pushing citizens toward lawlessness and repeated demolitions that leave families destitute. Tourism Push: Tibiyo TakaNgwane says the Royal Swazi Hotel reopening is nearing completion, while the Mlawula Campfire Festival is drawing record crowds and is framed as part of King Mswati III’s tourism growth drive. Trade Capacity: The EU/ITC-backed programme is training 17 local export trainers to help businesses use market intelligence tools.

Parliament & Power Billing: MPs challenged the EEC over alleged pole relocation fees, saying power lines may be erected on private land without proper consent, while the minister cited the legal protocol and said any improper cases are isolated. Land & Social Stability: A Gege MP warned that unresolved land laws and unclear farm boundaries are driving demolitions and pushing citizens toward “lawlessness,” urging enforcement earlier at foundation stage. Teachers’ Union Pressure: SNAT’s outgoing president Mbongwa Dlamini urged the next leadership to move beyond cost-of-living demands toward a living wage and stronger employment conditions, recounting his own suspension and dismissal history. Tourism & Jobs: Tibiyo TakaNgwane says the Royal Swazi Hotel reopening is nearing completion after due diligence, while the Mlawula Campfire Festival topped 1,200 attendees and is framed as part of King Mswati III’s tourism growth push. Local Governance & Crime: Matsapha budget talks flagged rising security concerns and called for CCTV coverage to improve monitoring. Human Development: Education officials put literacy at about 90% but warned early-grade reading gaps remain; ESCCOM also urged parents to monitor children’s cellphone use amid online trafficking risks. Economy Outlook: A new forecast expects growth to slow to 3.5% in 2027, with manufacturing and SACU receipts highlighted as key drivers.

Human Rights Watch: UN experts warn US “third-country” deportation deals are triggering a cascade of abuses, including torture, slavery, trafficking and enforced disappearance, as Washington signs transfer arrangements with 35+ countries. Local Governance: The Eswatini Urban Forum (Oct 28–30) will push municipalities to move from planning to execution despite tight budgets, focusing on financing, smart solutions and resilient infrastructure. Public Safety: Matsapha residents and stakeholders are calling for CCTV cameras in the town to strengthen crime prevention ahead of the 2027/28 budget. Economy & Finance: The Central Bank extended technical support to EswatiniBank for 12 more months, with a CBE COO seconded from Oct 1 to help implement the turnaround plan. Digital Protection: ESCCOM urged parents to monitor children’s cellphone use as online child traffickers increasingly use social media to lure minors. Education: Eswatini’s literacy rate is reported at about 90%, but early-grade reading and maths gaps remain. Health & Youth: A MP-linked suicide prevention push points to youth barriers like limited tertiary access and scholarship corruption. International Spotlight: Eswatini match official Letticia Viana wrapped up a FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup run in Poland with eight assignments.