- Ministers Meet During Regional Women’s Forum
BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Pholile Shakantu, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has welcomed Monica Mutsvangwa, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, during her visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Senator Mutsvangwa is in Eswatini to participate in the Women’s Forum being held under the theme: “Empowering Women in Agriculture Value Chains as a Driver of Economic Development.”
The forum forms part of activities commemorating the United Nations International Year of the Woman Farmer and contributes to broader discussions taking place during the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States – European Union Parliamentary Assembly Meetings currently underway at the Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre.
Focus On Women Empowerment And Trade
During their bilateral engagement, the two ministers discussed strengthening cooperation between Eswatini and Zimbabwe, particularly in the areas of women empowerment, trade and economic development.
The discussions reflected the strong diplomatic relations and longstanding friendship shared between the two countries.
Government said the engagement also highlighted the importance of empowering women in agriculture and entrepreneurship as part of broader efforts to drive sustainable economic growth across the African continent.
Zimbabwe Praises Eswatini’s Development
Senator Mutsvangwa commended Eswatini for its impressive infrastructure development and the progress the country continues to make in various sectors.
She also expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to her and the Zimbabwean delegation during their stay in the Kingdom.
According to Government, the Zimbabwean minister spoke positively about the enduring bilateral relationship between the two sister nations and reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Eswatini.
Regional Cooperation Encouraged
The Women’s Forum has brought together leaders, policymakers and development stakeholders to discuss ways of improving women’s participation in agricultural value chains and economic activities.
Participants are expected to explore strategies aimed at enhancing food security, increasing access to markets and supporting women-led enterprises across the region.
Observers say the gathering demonstrates the growing recognition of women’s role in economic transformation and sustainable development in Africa.
