BY NONCEDO SHABANGU
EZULWINI – Eswatini has boosted its readiness for major global climate talks following a specialized Environmental Diplomacy Training held at the Royal Villas from October 13–15, 2025. The three day initiative, led by the Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA) and key national stakeholders, focused on “Empowering National Experts for Effective Environmental Policy Negotiations.”
The training was designed to strengthen the negotiation skills of Eswatini’s experts and prepare them to effectively represent the country’s interests in regional and global environmental forums such as the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP).
A key highlight of the event was a dynamic panel discussion featuring some of Eswatini’s most experienced international negotiators. Mr. Isaac G. Dladla, the Executive Director of the EEA, participated, sharing valuable insights and advice with new and emerging negotiators on navigating the complex landscape of international environmental negotiations.
The intensive training curriculum covered a range of critical topics, including interpreting complex international conventions on biodiversity, pollution, and waste management, and strategically aligning these global frameworks with Eswatini’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Participants engaged in mock negotiation sessions, focusing on techniques for coalition building and attracting much needed climate finance and technology transfer. This technical deep dive ensures that the country’s delegates can advocate for tailored solutions that address Eswatini’s specific vulnerabilities to erratic weather patterns and resource management challenges.
This initiative marks an important step toward enhancing Eswatini’s presence and influence in global environmental policy spaces. The training ensures that national priorities are effectively communicated while fostering collaboration for sustainable development and building a more resilient future.
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