BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE— The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) is hosting a 31-member Botswana Defence Force (BDF) Senior Command and Staff Course delegation on a study tour aimed at exposing officers to Eswatini’s defence systems, experiences and practices.
The delegation, led by Colonel K.M. Seko, arrived in the Kingdom on Saturday, September 12, 2026, and includes the delegation leader, Deputy Defence Attaché to the Kingdom, Dean of Academics, members of the directing staff and student officers.
The visit also coincided with the Shiselweni Reed Dance ceremony, where the delegation had an opportunity to join Their Majesties and thousands of Emaswati during the cultural event, which concluded on Sunday.
The delegation formally began its programme on Monday, September 14, with a courtesy call by Colonel Seko on UEDF Commander General Moses M. Fakudze.
The Botswana officers were subsequently addressed through the UEDF Training Establishment Commandant, Major General Sotja M. Dlamini, who welcomed the delegation and underscored the importance of the study tour.
Major General Dlamini said the visit presented the student officers with an opportunity to gain practical knowledge from Eswatini’s people, systems and experiences.
“This is an opportunity for you to learn directly from the people, systems and experiences of the Kingdom of Eswatini. It is a rare opportunity of returning home with practical insights that will enable us to strengthen our Defence Forces more effectively,” he said.
The Commandant encouraged the delegation to remain attentive throughout the study tour, seek clarification where necessary and establish meaningful professional relationships during their stay in the Kingdom.
The visit forms part of the Senior Command and Staff Course programme, bringing together military personnel from Botswana for exposure to selected aspects of Eswatini’s defence environment.
According to the UEDF, the delegation is scheduled to tour selected places of interest in the Kingdom before returning to Botswana on Saturday.
The visit also highlights the continued interaction between the defence establishments of the two neighbouring countries, with the Botswana delegation using the study tour to gain practical insights that can inform its professional military development.
The UEDF said the delegation comprises 31 military personnel, including senior course officials and student officers.
The statement was issued by Major Sandile M. Gwebu, the UEDF Public Affairs Officer and official spokesperson.
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(Courtesy Pic)
