BY LINDELWA MYENI
MBABANE– His Majesty King Mswati III has praised University of Eswatini (UNESWA) student Vuyelwa Simelane for changing Eswatini’s fortunes in regional competitions after emerging as the overall winner of the SADC Essay Competition.
The King said Vuyelwa’s Position 1 finish had brought pride and recognition to Eswatini by putting the Kingdom’s name and flag on the regional stage.
His Majesty noted that Eswatini had for a long time watched other countries take top honours in regional competitions without seeing the Kingdom among the winners.
He said Vuyelwa had helped change that narrative through her outstanding performance in the SADC Essay Competition.
The King further drew a parallel between Vuyelwa’s achievement and his own appointment as Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, noting that both had contributed to raising Eswatini’s profile within the regional bloc.
His Majesty congratulated Vuyelwa for the achievement and commended UNESWA for nurturing and supporting young people who continue to represent the country with excellence.
He also recognised the contribution of Vuyelwa’s parents, particularly her father, Lucky Simelane, who works at Eswatini Observer, for supporting and encouraging her throughout the competition.
The King congratulated Lucky for his dedication in ensuring that Vuyelwa received the support she needed to succeed.
His Majesty emphasised that Vuyelwa’s achievement extended beyond an individual award, saying her success had brought honour to her family, her institution and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Vuyelwa’s victory places her among young Emaswati whose achievements are contributing to the country’s recognition beyond its borders and demonstrating the potential of Eswatini’s youth on regional platforms.
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