- Ntshangase commended for providing direct responses
BY MBONO MDLULI
LOBAMBA – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Principal Secretary (PS) Sizwe Ntshangase has been commended by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) for his preparedness and responsiveness during the committee’s scrutiny session.
The praise was delivered by PAC Chairperson Madala Mhlanga during the Ministry’s appearance before the committee in the House of Assembly on Friday, 29 May 2026.
Mhlanga said Ntshangase had distinguished himself from other controlling officers who had appeared before the committee by providing direct and comprehensive answers to questions raised by members.
According to the PAC Chairperson, many officials who appear before the committee often avoid providing detailed responses and instead simply acknowledge concerns raised by legislators without offering explanations.
“So far, he is the only controlling officer who has consistently given straight answers to questions raised by PAC members,” Mhlanga said.
MP applauds improvements within Ministry
Ludzeludze Member of Parliament Nomkhosi Masuku also commended the Ministry, citing what she described as significant improvements in its operations over the years.
Masuku, who also serves on the Ministry’s Portfolio Committee in Parliament, said she had observed a noticeable reduction in administrative shortcomings since becoming a Member of Parliament.
She expressed satisfaction with the progress made and encouraged Ministry officials to continue strengthening their performance and accountability systems.
“I have seen improvements in the Ministry’s work and a reduction in the mistakes that were previously identified,” Masuku said.
She urged the Ministry to maintain the momentum and continue delivering quality services.
PAC urges better welfare for foreign mission staff
While praising the Ministry’s performance before the committee, Mhlanga also used the opportunity to raise concerns regarding the welfare of employees serving in Eswatini’s foreign missions.
He appealed to Ntshangase to ensure that diplomats and other staff members stationed abroad receive adequate support and assistance when facing challenges.
The PAC Chairperson said it was important for Government to look after employees representing the country in foreign nations.
“It is difficult enough for people to face challenges in their own country. It becomes even more difficult when those challenges arise while serving in a foreign land,” Mhlanga said.
He stressed that employee welfare should remain a priority for the Ministry.
Concerns raised over alleged workplace bullying
Mhlanga also warned against any form of bullying or mistreatment of employees based at Eswatini’s embassies and foreign missions.
He revealed that Parliament had become concerned by cases in which employees stationed abroad repeatedly sought transfers or requested to return home before completing their assignments.
According to Mhlanga, the recurring requests suggested that there could be management-related issues within some missions that required attention.
“When workers continuously want to return home one after another, it raises concerns that there may be problems within the management structures of those missions,” he said.
The PAC Chairperson urged the Ministry to investigate such concerns and ensure that working environments remain professional and supportive.
Ministry promises to address concerns
Responding to the issues raised, Ntshangase welcomed the feedback and thanked the PAC Chairperson for highlighting the concerns.
He assured the committee that the Ministry would look into matters relating to employee welfare and workplace relations within foreign missions.
The Principal Secretary reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to improving service delivery, strengthening accountability and ensuring that staff members serving abroad are adequately supported.
The PAC’s praise of Ntshangase comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Government ministries and departments as Parliament seeks to strengthen accountability, transparency and good governance across the public sector.
