King calls for stronger African unity to tackle unemployment, promote trade
His Majesty King Mswati III (2nd R) posing for a group photo with (L-R) Ambassador of Equatorial Guinea to the Kingdom of Eswatini Nguema Buna, High Commissioner of Botswana to the Kingdom of Eswatini Dr Sanji Mmasenono Monageng and High Commissioner of Rwanda to the Kingdom of Eswatini Donat Ndamage after receiving their letters of credence at Lozitha Palace yesterday. (pics: Sibusiso Zwane)
By Siphesihle Dlamini
His Majesty King Mswati III has emphasised the urgent need for African nations to deepen their cooperation in tackling common challenges such as unemployment, health issues, and the promotion of trade and tourism across the continent.
Speaking during a significant diplomatic event at Lozitha Royal Palace on Thursday, the King highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration as pivotal to Africa’s sustainable development and prosperity.
The occasion marked the formal presentation of Letters of Credence by three distinguished diplomats newly accredited to the Kingdom of Eswatini.
The King received High Commissioner Dr Sanji Mmasenono Monageng of the Republic of Botswana, Ambassador PE Nguema Buna of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, and High Commissioner Colonel (Rtd) Donat Ndamage of the Republic of Rwanda.
This ceremony not only reinforced Eswatini’s diplomatic ties but also underscored the shared commitment of these nations to strengthen bilateral and regional relations.
Dr Sanji Mmasenono Monageng, representing Botswana, reflected on the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the two countries, which dates back to 1966.
Dr Monageng acknowledged that while interactions have historically been limited, the bonds remain close, particularly in sectors such as tourism and education.
“The Kingdom of Eswatini holds special significance to many Batswana,” she said, noting the presence of Botswana government-sponsored students studying in Eswatini.
Additionally, she revealed that Eswatini has been granted a training slot at the Botswana Defence and Command Staff College, signalling growing cooperation in defence and security.
Ambassador PE Nguema Buna of Equatorial Guinea conveyed warm greetings from his Head of State, H.E. Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, expressing a strong sense of friendship and solidarity.
He emphasised the mutual respect and peaceful relations between the two nations, describing the presentation of credentials as a clear demonstration of the esteem in which Equatorial Guinea holds Eswatini.
“This event is irrefutable proof of the high regard His Excellency Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has for the brotherly people of Eswatini,” Ambassador Buna stated.
Colonel (Rtd) Donat Ndamage, High Commissioner of Rwanda, highlighted the robust and growing relationship between Rwanda and Eswatini.
He recalled recent high-level exchanges, including His Majesty King Mswati III’s participation in the inauguration of President Paul Kagame and subsequent working visits, as evidence of the strong ties between the two countries.
“Rwanda and Eswatini share a vision of cooperation aimed at advancing economic development, commercial exchange, and fostering a better continent through enhanced South-South cooperation,” he remarked.