BY THEMBA ZWANE
LOBAMBA – Over the past 40 years on the Throne, His Majesty the King has made crucial strides to ensure development and financial sustainability of Emaswati.
This has been revealed by Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini when introducing the King before he delivered his keynote address at Somhlolo National Stadium where the nation gathered to celebrate the King’s 40 years on the Throne and 58th birthday.
“Under His Majesty’s stewardship, the nation has made notable strides in development. Free primary education was introduced, schools expanded, and enrolment significantly increased. Health facilities have been established and improved, enhancing access to quality healthcare for our people,” he said.
He noted that infrastructure development has yielded one of the most advanced road networks in the region, improving connectivity and supporting economic growth.
“To further stimulate economic activity and employment, His Majesty championed initiatives such as the Multi-Million Development Fund and other enterprise support programmes aimed at empowering entrepreneurs, supporting small and medium enterprises, and creating sustainable livelihoods,” said the PM.
The head of government said social protection systems have also been strengthened through grants supporting the elderly, orphans and vulnerable children, and persons with disabilities, ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
At the regional level, he said, the Southern African Development Community has benefited from Eswatini’s peace and stability. Under His Majesty’s leadership, the Kingdom has offered refuge, counsel, and solidarity to leaders and nations in times of need, thereby reinforcing regional unity.
“The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini, under the direction of His Majesty, remains resolute in its pursuit of developed country status. This vision is not a distant aspiration, but a tangible goal, one that is achievable within our lifetime.”
According to the premier, by 2030, it is envisaged that universal access to potable water, electricity, and quality healthcare will be realised, further advancing the nation’s development trajectory.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Kingdom of Eswatini, I extend our profound gratitude and reaffirm our unwavering loyalty to His Majesty,” he said.
He noted that His Majesty ascended to the throne in 1986 and was crowned at the very same Somhlolo National Stadium where they marked 40 years of his remarkable reign.
“I vividly recall that historic day. I was seated with my mother in the grandstand, just opposite where I stand today. The nation had gathered in eager anticipation to behold the young King and to hear his first words as Sovereign. His Majesty spoke with eloquence and dignity, and the people, moved by his presence, embraced him with hope and goodwill, as a new era for Eswatini was born.”
On the day, the PM said they merely commemorated the passage of four decades on the Throne, they celebrated a legacy of visionary leadership, steadfastness, and fidelity to enduring principles that have preserved peace, stability, and progress in the Kingdom.
“His Majesty has remained true to the legacy of his forefathers, most notably that of the late King Sobhuza II, guiding and instructing with wisdom and foresight, and ensuring that the nation remained at peace and respected among the community of nations, including as a proud member of the Non-Aligned Movement,” he said.
He noted further that in 2005, His Majesty King Mswati III presided over the promulgation of Eswatini Constitution, ushering in a unique system of governance—one that harmoniously integrates monarchical authority with democratic and parliamentary processes, alongside Eswatini’s cherished traditional structures.
This evolving framework reflects national values, strengthens national institutions, and advances governance by the people, for the people, under the wise guidance of His Majesty according to the premier.
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