BY NOMTHANDAZO MAYISELA (INTERN)
MATSAPHA – A total of 125 officers and trainers have successfully completed specialised training programmes aimed at strengthening leadership, professionalism and public service delivery within Eswatini’s emergency and law enforcement institutions.
The intensive capacity-building programmes concluded on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Matsapha Academy, where participants gathered to celebrate weeks of learning, discipline and professional development. The initiative brought together officers from the Eswatini National Fire, Rescue and Emergency Service and the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), reflecting the growing collaboration between the country’s security and emergency institutions.
The training programmes included the Effective Supervisory Skills Development Course and the REPS Teaching Capacity Building Course, both designed to improve operational efficiency and strengthen the quality of service delivered to emaSwati. Officials said the courses focused not only on technical knowledge, but also on developing confident leaders capable of making sound decisions under pressure.
For many participants, the training represented more than a professional requirement. It became an opportunity to sharpen communication skills, strengthen teamwork and build confidence in handling responsibilities that directly affect communities across the country. In professions where discipline, quick decision-making and effective leadership can save lives, the importance of such training was repeatedly highlighted throughout the programme.
A total of 36 officers graduated from the four-week Effective Supervisory Skills Development Course, including 30 men and six women. During the programme, participants received training in communication, accountability, teamwork, leadership and public speaking. Facilitators encouraged officers to become role models within their workstations and to uphold high standards of discipline and professionalism.
Officials said the supervisory course was specifically designed to prepare officers for leadership responsibilities and strengthen their ability to manage teams effectively in demanding working environments. Participants were also reminded of the importance of ethical conduct and maintaining public trust while carrying out their duties.
Meanwhile, the REPS Teaching Capacity Building Course attracted 89 participants, made up of 62 men and 27 women. The programme focused on improving instructional and facilitation skills among trainers and educators within the security sector. Participants were introduced to modern teaching approaches, learner-centred methods and practical techniques aimed at improving knowledge transfer within their organisations.
Speaking on behalf of the National Commissioner, Deputy National Commissioner Ms. Simangele Motsa said the courses were an important investment in strengthening the country’s security and emergency response systems. She noted that well-trained officers and instructors play a critical role in improving efficiency, discipline and service delivery within institutions entrusted with protecting the public.
Motsa further said the knowledge and experience gained during the training would contribute towards improving crime prevention efforts, strengthening public confidence and enhancing professionalism within the country’s law enforcement and emergency services. She encouraged officers to continue taking advantage of learning opportunities available both within and outside their organisations in order to continuously improve their skills.
Officials also commended the strong partnership between REPS and the Fire and Rescue Emergency Service throughout the training programmes, describing the collaboration as a positive step towards building a more responsive, skilled and professional security sector for Eswatini.
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