By Mbongeni Ndlela
MBABANE – Government has assured the nation that it is taking urgent steps to engage the United States following the abrupt freezing of foreign aid under an Executive Order issued by President Donald Trump’s administration.
The announcement, made through a press statement by Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo on January 29, 2025, acknowledges the significant impact the decision will have on developing nations, including Eswatini. However, the government maintains that it respects the sovereignty of the United States and its right to prioritize its national interests under the “America First” policy.
Nxumalo emphasized that despite the potential challenges, Eswatini government remains committed to addressing the issue diplomatically. “Whilst acknowledging the devastating impact that this Executive Order will have on developing nations such as ours, it is equally important to acknowledge that the United States is within their sovereign right to put ‘America First.’ Therefore, as a sovereign Nation ourselves, we are obligated to respect other Nations’ decisions,” Nxumalo stated.
To mitigate the effects of the aid freeze and seek clarity on the decision, Eswatini’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is set to meet with the United States Embassy in Eswatini this week. The discussions are expected to provide further insight into the rationale behind the decision and explore possible resolutions to ensure continued cooperation between the two nations.
Nxumalo reassured emaSwati that the government considers the matter a top priority.
“Arrangements to engage the United States, through diplomatic channels, have already been made,” he said, adding that the nation will be updated as new developments unfold.
The United States has been a key development partner for Eswatini, providing aid in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and economic development. The freeze on funding raises concerns about potential disruptions to ongoing projects, including HIV/AIDS programs and poverty alleviation initiatives.
Despite these concerns, government has urged emaSwati to remain positive as the diplomatic process unfolds.
“Government implores emaSwati to remain positive as we await the conclusion of this matter,” Nxumalo concluded.
As government moves forward with diplomatic engagements, all eyes will be on the discussions with the US Embassy to determine the way forward in light of this unexpected decision.
