BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini says the appointment of His Majesty King Mswati III to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation – commonly known as the Troika – is a strong signal that Eswatini and its leadership are trusted to help safeguard peace and stability on the African continent.
The King was officially appointed Deputy Chairperson of the SADC Troika during the 45th Ordinary Session of the SADC Heads of State and Government, held on August 16, 2025, in Antananarivo, Madagascar. In his new role, he will deputise Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera, who now chairs the Troika.
In his congratulatory message delivered on August 19, the Prime Minister described the appointment as an honour not only for His Majesty but for the nation at large. He emphasised that the King’s leadership continues to attract respect across the continent. “The nation is proud of the King’s contribution to peace and stability in Africa,” said Dlamini.
The Prime Minister recalled that His Majesty previously chaired the SADC Troika from 2010 to 2011, during which he was actively involved in strengthening regional unity and dialogue among member states. “This appointment is therefore not new. His Majesty has walked this road before and proven his ability to mediate and lead,” the PM stated.
Dlamini also reminded the nation that just six months ago, His Majesty was appointed Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council, a continental body responsible for preventing, managing, and resolving conflicts across Africa. He said the King’s repeated appointments were clear recognition of his influence and credibility as a peacebuilder.
“These appointments demonstrate that His Majesty is recognised as a pioneer of peace and stability in Africa,” the PM said. “As a nation, we must also take up this responsibility by promoting peace, tolerance, and unity in our daily lives.”
King Mswati III’s latest appointment ensures that Eswatini remains at the heart of regional and continental peace initiatives, once again positioning the kingdom as a reliable voice in resolving Africa’s pressing challenges.
