BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE– His Majesty King Mswati III has returned to Eswatini following his participation in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, USA. The historic event brought together world leaders to discuss peace, climate change, sustainable development, and technological innovation.
Speaking to media briefing on October 2,2025 addressing the nation, His Majesty reflected on the journey, “The journey to the United States was a fruitful one. We were welcomed warmly, and we met with many world leaders committed to the well-being of their countries.”
Global Peace and Africa’s Agenda 2063
Before attending UNGA, His Majesty participated in the Bloomberg Foundation Forum, a global platform that explored crises, industrialization, and job creation. “We saw how business leaders and scientists are coming together to find solutions that promote peace and economic growth. These discussions are essential for countries like Eswatini,” he said.
At the General Assembly, His Majesty addressed Africa’s commitment to peace through Agenda 2063, which aims to “silence the guns” by 2063. “Africa has created resolutions to ensure conflicts are resolved peacefully. We are working closely with the United Nations’ African Peacekeeping Mission to promote safety and stability across the continent,” he stated.
He referenced ongoing global conflicts, including the Ukraine-Russia war, tensions in the Middle East between Israel and Palestine, and instability in Sudan, underscoring that “no situation can be resolved by violence. Peaceful negotiations are the only solution.”
Climate Action and Sustainable Development
Climate change featured prominently at UNGA 80. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the urgent need for global cooperation to address global warming. His Majesty emphasized that even developing nations like Eswatini must embrace environmentally sustainable industries. “Industries should create jobs but not harm nature. Climate action is essential for our people and our future,” he said.
Discussions also linked directly to the Paris Agreement and other international climate commitments. “Countries must work together to mitigate natural disasters and changing weather patterns,” he added.
Historic Initiatives Launched by Eswatini
During UNGA 80 and Climate Week in New York, Eswatini unveiled three pioneering initiatives through its Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (MICT):
.Google Collaboration: Strengthening digital infrastructure to improve government services, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
.Stardust Initiative (Space 18th SDG): Making Eswatini the first African country to use space technology for climate action, disaster preparedness, and youth STEM opportunities.
.She Powers Africa Program: Empowering young women across Africa with skills in AI, ICT, STEM, and climate innovation.
“These projects, aligned with our ‘Government in Your Hand’ program and anchored by the Royal Science and Technology Park, position Eswatini as a regional leader in technology, innovation, and inclusive growth,” His Majesty said.
Eswatini’s Progress on Sustainable Development Goals
UNGA 80 also highlighted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are set to be achieved by 2030. His Majesty emphasized Eswatini’s strong progress: “Eswatini is on track to meet and even surpass targets in education, health, poverty alleviation, and access to clean water. Our achievements have been internationally recognized, and we continue to collaborate as a nation to maintain momentum.”
He noted that countries are also addressing food security, gender equality, and youth empowerment, all of which are central to Eswatini’s national development agenda.
Global Engagement and Strategic Partnerships
His Majesty met with international partners to strengthen trade, investment, and educational opportunities. He reinforced Eswatini’s vision for peaceful conflict resolution, climate action, and technology-driven growth.
“Countries around the world are recovering from the devastating horrors of COVID-19, which took many lives. The world must focus on collaboration, innovation, and peace to rebuild and thrive. Eswatini is committed to contributing positively to Africa and the world,” he concluded.
