BY MBONO MDLULI
LOBAMBA – His Majesty King Mswati III has called for another liberation for Africa, which economic freedom for the continent, saying political independence alone is no longer enough.
The King made the remarks on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Somhlolo National Stadium during the 40/58 Double Celebration, which marked his 40 years on the throne and his 58th birthday.
He said Africa had made significant progress in gaining political freedom, but the next major challenge was achieving economic independence.
From Political to Economic Freedom
The King recalled that when he ascended to the throne in 1986, many African countries were still fighting for political liberation. He said those struggles were later won by many nations across the continent, bringing an end to colonial rule and foreign domination in several states.
However, the monarch said political freedom should now be followed by economic freedom so that African countries can fully control their own resources, industries and development paths. He stressed that true independence would only be realised when African nations are economically strong and self-reliant.
Signs of Progress
His Majesty said he was encouraged that Africa was already putting mechanisms in place to achieve this vision. He pointed to African Union Agenda 2063 as one of the frameworks designed to guide the continent toward prosperity and long-term development.
The King said Agenda 2063 sets out how Africans intend to build the future they desire under the theme, “The Africa We Want.” He said one of the important goals of the programme was to remove the image of Africa as a poor continent and transform it into a global economic powerhouse.
What is Agenda 2063?
Agenda 2063 is the African Union’s 50-year strategic development blueprint launched in 2013 and running until 2063. It seeks to accelerate inclusive growth, sustainable development, continental integration and good governance while ensuring that Africa uses its own resources for the benefit of its people.
The programme also promotes peace, security, cultural identity and stronger participation of women and young people in development. Its long-term objective is to create a prosperous, united and influential Africa that competes strongly in the global economy.
Major Continental Projects
Some of the flagship projects under Agenda 2063 include the African Continental Free Trade Area, which aims to increase trade among African countries by reducing barriers.
Other initiatives include an integrated high-speed railway network linking African capitals, a single African air transport market, expanded digital connectivity and an African passport to improve free movement across borders.
The agenda also supports large-scale energy and infrastructure investments intended to unlock industrial growth across the continent.
Importance for Eswatini and Africa
The King’s remarks come at a time when many African countries are focusing on industrialisation, youth employment, regional trade and investment as key tools for development.
Economic experts have often argued that Africa possesses vast natural resources, fertile land and a young population, but still faces challenges such as unemployment, limited manufacturing capacity and dependence on imports. His Majesty’s call therefore reflects growing continental thinking that Africa must process its own raw materials, strengthen local industries and trade more with itself.
Celebration with a Broader Message
While the event celebrated the King’s personal milestones of 40 years on the throne and his 58th birthday, the speech also carried a broader continental message. By urging Africa to pursue economic freedom, the King positioned development, unity and prosperity as the next stage of the continent’s liberation journey.
