BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE- Eswatini has once again taken its place among progressive nations advancing women’s empowerment, with Her Royal Highness Princess Lindiwe, Minister of Home Affairs, delivering a powerful address at the International Conference on the Role of Women in Modern Society held in Avaza, Turkmenistan.
Addressing ministers, heads of delegation and international partners, HRH Princess Lindiwe conveyed warm greetings from His Majesty King Mswati III and the people of Eswatini, reaffirming the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and sustainable development.
She emphasized that empowering women is not only a moral obligation but a strategic necessity for national and global progress, highlighting that no country can advance women’s rights in isolation. Multilateral dialogue and international cooperation, she said, remain vital in unlocking the full potential of women across political, economic and socio-humanitarian spheres.
Drawing from Eswatini’s unique governance model, Princess Lindiwe showcased how tradition and modern leadership work hand in hand. She noted that the country’s Constitution guarantees gender equality and has enabled progressive legislation such as the Election of Women into the House of Assembly Act of 2018. As a result, women now make up 29 percent of Parliament and hold influential positions as principal secretaries, ambassadors, judges and senior executives.
She further highlighted the role of Eswatini’s cultural institutions, including the Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Marula festivals, as pillars that instill confidence, discipline and national pride among women and girls, preparing them for leadership in public life.
On economic empowerment, Princess Lindiwe outlined targeted initiatives supporting women entrepreneurs, farmers and cooperatives through access to finance, skills development and agribusiness opportunities. She praised the leadership of Her Majesty the Queen Mother in championing women-led projects in agriculture, handicrafts and indigenous industries, strengthening women’s participation in the national economy.
The conference also heard of Eswatini’s strong stance on protecting women and girls, underpinned by progressive laws such as the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act and the Cyber Security and Crime Act. The Kingdom has adopted a National Strategy to End Violence and established One-Stop Centres to provide survivor support, while engaging men and boys as partners in social transformation.
In her closing remarks, HRH Princess Lindiwe called for deeper global partnerships to strengthen women’s leadership, eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, and expand social protection systems worldwide.
Eswatini’s contribution at the conference reinforced its growing reputation as a nation where cultural heritage, visionary leadership and inclusive development combine to uplift women—at home and on the international stage.
(Courtesy Pic)
