By Ncaba Ntshakala
The government of Eswatini has highlighted its commitment to diplomatic engagement with the United States following the recent suspension of foreign aid by the U.S. administration.
In a press statement released, the Prime Minister Russell Dlamini disclosed that he held a telephonic meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during which both parties recognized the longstanding and friendly relationship between their countries.
The statement noted that the Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the existing bilateral ties, while Secretary Rubio conveyed optimism about expanding their partnership.
This latest development follows growing concerns in Eswatini regarding the potential impact of the U.S. aid freeze, which was part of a major decision by the U.S. government to halt virtually all foreign assistance.
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The suspension, ordered by President Donald Trump’s administration, has left many developing nations, including Eswatini, uncertain about the future of critical programs previously supported by American funding.
Historically, U.S. aid has played a crucial role in Eswatini, particularly in sectors such as health, education, and economic development.
Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo recently addressed these concerns, emphasizing that Eswatini respects the sovereign decisions of other nations, including the U.S. “The United States is within their sovereign right to put ‘America First.’
Therefore, as a sovereign Nation ourselves, we are obligated to respect other Nations’ decisions,” Nxumalo stated.
However, he reassured the public that diplomatic channels had already been activated to resolve the issue.
To address the immediate concerns raised by the aid suspension, the government has taken swift action to initiate discussions with U.S. officials.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation was said to meet with representatives of the U.S. Embassy in Eswatini to gain further clarity on the decision and explore potential resolutions.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s call with Secretary Rubio suggests that high-level diplomatic dialogue is already in progress.
The sudden halt in U.S. assistance has raised significant questions about Eswatini’s ability to sustain crucial programs, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS, where funding from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has been instrumental.
The suspension of these funds could also affect numerous non-governmental organizations that rely on American support and employ thousands of emaSwati.
International reports have revealed that the freeze on U.S. foreign aid has had ripple effects beyond Eswatini.
Within the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), senior staff members have reportedly been placed on administrative leave, and many contractors have lost their positions.
According to sources cited by CBS News, USAID’s acting administrator Jason Gray informed employees via email that several staff members had been placed on leave following actions perceived as attempts to bypass the executive orders issued by the Trump administration.
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The move has left USAID with a leadership vacuum, further complicating the situation for aid-dependent nations.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the aid freeze, the Eswatini government urged emaSwati to remain calm and optimistic.
“Government implores emaSwati to remain positive as we await the conclusion of this matter,” Nxumalo stated.
