His Majesty King Mswati III has described Eswatini’s assumption of the chairmanship of the Southern African Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organisation (SARPCCO) as a vital milestone for the Kingdom,
saying it places the country at the centre of regional efforts to combat transnational crime and strengthen security across Southern Africa.
Addressing the 23rd Royal Eswatini Police Day at the Matsapha Police Academy on Friday, the King said the regional leadership role demonstrates the confidence SADC member states have in the Royal Eswatini Police Service and the country’s policing institutions. 
“The Kingdom of Eswatini is pleased to assume the chairmanship of our regional police organisation, the Southern African Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organisation (SARPCCO),” His Majesty said.
He explained that SARPCCO plays a critical role in promoting cooperation and uniformity among law enforcement agencies throughout the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“This is a body seeking to foster uniformity among law enforcement agencies of SADC member countries in the tackling of issues that have the potential of compromising safety and security in the region,” the King said.
His Majesty said the increasing sophistication of organised crime requires countries to work together through intelligence sharing, joint operations and coordinated law enforcement strategies rather than acting in isolation.
The King noted that regional cooperation has become increasingly important as criminal syndicates continue to exploit technological advancements and operate across national borders.
Earlier in his address, His Majesty observed that crime patterns are changing rapidly, requiring police services to remain adaptive, innovative and closely connected with their regional counterparts.
He said stronger partnerships among policing agencies remain essential in confronting emerging threats.
“Our united efforts are growing stronger and stronger, which is very important in combating crime,” he said.
The King also wished National Commissioner of Police Manoma Vusie Masango success as he assumes leadership responsibilities within the regional policing body.
“We wish the National Commissioner well as he discharges his duties in this noble regional position. NatCom, you should raise the flag of the Kingdom high and leave a good legacy during your tenure of office,” His Majesty said.
He said Eswatini’s leadership of SARPCCO presents an opportunity to strengthen regional peace and security while enhancing cooperation among neighbouring countries in combating organised crime, human trafficking, cybercrime, drug trafficking and other cross-border offences.
His Majesty further emphasised that effective policing can only succeed where regional cooperation is supported by strong partnerships between governments, communities and security institutions.
