BY THEMBA ZWANE
SIDVOKODVO – The Bangladesh community has become respected and valued part of life in Eswatini.
This has been disclosed by the Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, on April 12, 2026 at Riders Ranch, Sidvokodvo, during the celebration of the Swazi-Bangla Community Culture Day.
Nzima said the day marked a moment that reflected not only cultural celebration, but also unity, faith, solidarity and shared humanity.
“Allow me, at the outset, to extend my heartfelt greetings and warmest congratulations to the Bangladeshi community and to all Muslim brothers and sisters present, as you continue to observe and celebrate the blessed season of Eid. On behalf of the Government and people of the Kingdom of Eswatini, I wish you and your families’ peace, joy, and abundant blessings,” he said.
The minister noted that Eid is one of the most profound moments in the Muslim calendar. He said it calls them to reflect on sacrifice, humility, gratitude, discipline, and compassion. He said it reminded them that true strength is not only measured by achievement, but by the ability to care for one another, to forgive, and to live together in peace.
He pointed out that these values transcend religion and nationality. They are universal principles that all societies must uphold, especially in a world that increasingly needs unity, understanding, and cooperation.
He said the gathering was significant beyond celebration. It was a living demonstration of the strength of community, the dignity of cultural identity, and the importance of peaceful coexistence among people of different backgrounds who share one nation and one future.
“The Bangladeshi community has become a respected and valued part of life in Eswatini. Through your enterprise, discipline, resilience, and commitment, you continue to contribute meaningfully to economic activity, social interaction, and national development,” he said.
Nzima said they recognised with appreciation the Bangladesh community contribution to sport in Eswatini, particularly through the development and support of cricket, a sport that continues to grow in popularity and bring together young people across communities.
“Your involvement in sport is a clear demonstration of how cultural exchange can strengthen unity and nurture talent among our youth.”
He encouraged them to continue expanding their impact beyond sport especially in the area of youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and business development.
He said Eswatini, like many other countries, faces the challenge of youth unemployment. He said one of the most effective ways to address this challenge is through investment in youth-led enterprises, skills development, and entrepreneurial support that enables young people to create their own opportunities.
He expressed firm believe that culture is one of the strongest foundations upon which peaceful and progressive nations are built.
“While governments establish policies and institutions create systems, it is through cultural respect, human interaction, and shared values that true social harmony is sustained,” he said.
The legislator added that when communities gather as they had done, barriers are removed, understanding grows, and trust is strengthened. Through that process, nations become stronger.
He noted that this was particularly important for young people. He said the youth must inherit a society where diversity is embraced, where differences are seen as opportunities, and where cultural identity becomes a bridge for cooperation rather than a boundary of separation.
“In sport, in culture, and in youth development, we continue to affirm that inclusion is not optional; it is essential. A nation that values every community strengthens its social fabric and secures a more stable future,” he said.
At a time when many parts of the world face uncertainty and division, Nzima said, gatherings such as that one reminded them that peace is built locally; through respect among neighbours, friendship among communities, and goodwill among nations.
He commended the organisers of the event for creating a platform that not only celebrates Eid and culture, but also strengthens friendship, mutual respect, and understanding among all present.
“As government, we remain committed to promoting harmony, cultural dignity, and inclusive national development. Every community that contributes positively to Eswatini forms part of our shared progress and national story,” he said.
The minister said the occasion stood as a renewed affirmation that while they may come from different nations, speak different languages, and practice different traditions, they were united by common human values and a shared desire for peace, prosperity, and mutual respect.
“May this blessed season of Eid continue to renew hope in every family, strengthen bonds within every community, and inspire deeper cooperation between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.”
Nzima called for peace to prevail in communities, friendships to continue to grow among the people and the spirit of the day to guide them toward a future of greater unity and shared progress.
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