BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MATSAPHA- The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Eswatini’s pursuit of human rights, transparency, and accountable governance.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony of the Commission on Human Rights and Public Administration/Integrity’s induction, UNDP Eswatini Resident Representative Henrik Franklin called on the newly appointed Commissioners to be bold, informed, and visible in their work.
“A well-functioning Commission is not only a constitutional requirement, it is a cornerstone of good governance,” Franklin told attendees gathered at Esibayeni Lodge.
He described the induction as a historic moment for Eswatini’s governance landscape and urged the Commission to prioritize public education and outreach.
“It is crucial that every Liswati understands their rights and responsibilities. The Commission must become a trusted channel through which people find justice, dignity, and ethical public service,” he said.
PROMOTING RIGHTS, EMPOWERING CITIZENS
Franklin highlighted the dual role of the Commission, to promote and protect human rights, and to ensure integrity and fairness in public administration. He said both mandates are central to the country’s development agenda and to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He urged Commissioners to focus not only on receiving complaints but also on building a culture of preventative action, awareness, and collaboration.
“Human rights and integrity must not only exist in policy documents. They must be experienced in real time by real people,” Franklin emphasized.
A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Franklin reaffirmed the UNDP’s partnership with the Ministry of Justice and the Commission. He said the ongoing technical and financial support from UNDP is an investment in institutional capacity-building, transparency, and democratic accountability.
“UNDP is here to walk this journey with you. We are confident that with the right tools, training, and commitment, this Commission will emerge as a model of excellence in the region,” he concluded.
The week-long induction programme, facilitated by international experts from Kenya, Zambia, and the Network of African National Human Rights Institutions (NANHRI), continues until Friday, July 25, 2025.
The training is the Commission’s first official assignment since being appointed by His Majesty King Mswati III.
