Senator Mdluli tours Mozambique–Eswatini Parliamentary cooperation
By Delisa Magagula
Deputy Senate President of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Senator Ndumiso Mdluli, has emphasized the significance of the newly signed cooperation agreement between Eswatini and Mozambique.
describing it as an opportunity to strengthen governance, sharpen legislative processes, and open doors for broader parliamentary collaboration across the region.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Senator Mdluli said the agreement would go beyond formal ties and create practical opportunities for both parliamentarians and parliamentary staff to grow their capacities.
“This is not just about signing documents. It is about learning from each other. We will exchange knowledge, study legislative practices that work in Mozambique, and share our own experiences. This way, both parliaments will evolve and serve our people better,” said Mdluli.
Senator Mdluli underscored that one of the most valuable outcomes of the cooperation would be the exchange of best practices in law-making.
He said both countries face common challenges, from economic reforms to social protection policies, and that collaboration would ensure parliaments become more responsive and effective in addressing them.
“Legislation is the backbone of governance. By observing how our colleagues in Mozambique draft, debate, and implement laws, we will be able to strengthen our own parliamentary processes. Likewise, we will share our approaches. It is about cross-pollination of ideas,” he said.
The Deputy Senate President also highlighted that the protocol paves the way for exchange programs tailored for parliamentarians and support staff.
According to him, such initiatives will provide hands-on exposure to parliamentary management, administrative efficiency, and research practices.
“Staff members are the engine of Parliament.If they are empowered through training and international exposure, they will bring fresh insights that improve the way we operate. This will also inspire parliamentarians to broaden their perspectives beyond national boundaries,” Mdluli explained.
Mdluli stressed that the cooperation was not limited to bilateral relations but part of a broader push for Southern African solidarity.
With delegations from Zambia, South Africa, and Lesotho present during the ceremony, he noted that Eswatini’s Parliament is positioning itself as a proactive partner in regional integration.
“We are part of a family of nations that must work together. Strengthening parliamentary ties with Mozambique is a step toward building a stronger, more united region, where policies and governance are harmonized for the benefit of our citizens,”
In his remarks, Senator Mdluli also touched on the importance of equipping young leaders for the future. He said that parliament-to-parliament cooperation could serve as a bridge for mentorship and inspire a new generation of legislators to embrace innovation and inclusivity.
“We cannot think only about today,” he added. “Our young leaders must be exposed to how governance systems work in different countries. This will prepare them to lead with wisdom, courage, and a broader worldview.”
Senator Mdluli concluded by calling for commitment and accountability in implementing the agreement.
He said the success of the MoU would not be measured by the signing ceremony alone but by the tangible impact it brings to parliamentary work and ultimately to the people of both countries.
“Our responsibility as parliamentarians is to ensure that such agreements do not gather dust,” he said firmly.
The Deputy Senate President’s remarks reflect a growing awareness in Eswatini’s Parliament of the need for collaboration, innovation, and regional solidarity in governance.
For Mdluli, the protocol is more than a diplomatic gesture it is a blueprint for building a more effective, knowledgeable, and people-centered Parliament.
