BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE- The Commander of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF), General Hulumende Mashikilisane Fakudze, has been honoured by the Taiwan Armed Forces in recognition of his outstanding leadership, dedicated service, and exceptional contribution to strengthening defence cooperation between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
General Fakudze was awarded the Precious Tripod Medal, one of Taiwan’s distinguished military decorations under the Army, Navy and Air Force Medals and Awards system.
This marks the second prestigious military honour conferred upon him by the Taiwan Armed Forces, following a previous award received in 2023.
As part of his official visit to Taiwan, General Fakudze was accorded a full Guard of Honour upon his arrival before being officially welcomed by Taiwan’s Minister of National Defense, Koo Li-Hsiung, alongside senior military commanders of the Taiwan Armed Forces.
During his visit, the Army Commander toured several of Taiwan’s premier military training institutions, including defence higher education establishments where more than 20 emaSwati are currently pursuing defence-related degree programmes.
He also visited military academies where emaSwati cadets are undergoing professional military training.
The visit further reaffirmed the longstanding and cordial defence partnership between Eswatini and Taiwan, highlighting the two nations’ continued commitment to military cooperation, capacity building, and the development of professional armed forces.
General Fakudze is expected to return to the Kingdom of Eswatini on Friday following the successful conclusion of his official visit.
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(Courtesy Pic)
