BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Government has issued a crucial travel advisory urging all emaSwati travelling abroad to secure comprehensive travel insurance.
The advisory, released through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, emphasizes the importance of insurance for financial and medical protection while abroad.
Why travel insurance is essential
The statement highlights several key benefits of travel insurance, including:
- Medical Emergencies & Hospitalization – Ensuring travellers receive medical care without incurring high out-of-pocket expenses.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation – Covering costs for medical transport back home in case of severe illness or injury.
- Loss or Theft of Personal Belongings – Protecting against theft, loss, or damage to valuables such as passports and luggage.
- Trip Cancellations & Delays – Offering compensation for unexpected travel disruptions, including political unrest, health crises, or natural disasters.
- Repatriation of Remains – Covering expenses related to the return of deceased individuals to Eswatini, reducing the financial burden on affected families.
Ensuring continuous coverage
The government strongly warns travellers against allowing their insurance coverage to lapse while abroad. In the event of an emergency, individuals without active insurance may face severe financial and logistical difficulties.
To avoid such risks, all Emaswati currently abroad are advised to:
✔ Regularly check their insurance policy expiry dates.
✔ Secure replacement policies immediately if their coverage has lapsed.
✔ Ensure their policy covers their location and duration of stay.
✔ Upgrade their insurance if extending their stay abroad.
Government assistance limitations
The advisory makes it clear that due to financial constraints, the Eswatini government cannot guarantee financial assistance to citizens facing emergencies abroad. As a result, it is the responsibility of all travellers to ensure they have adequate and continuous insurance coverage to protect themselves from unforeseen incidents.
Health & safety awareness
In addition to securing insurance, travellers are urged to stay informed about health risks in their host countries. The government advises Emaswati to monitor potential disease outbreaks, follow local health advisories, and seek medical attention when necessary.
Final reminder to Emaswati travellers
Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo stressed that travel insurance is “a non-negotiable requirement” for safe and secure travel. He urged parents, students, business travellers, and all Emaswati abroad to take the advisory seriously and renew or replace any expired policies immediately.
With the increasing complexities of international travel, the government’s message is clear: Be prepared, stay insured, and travel responsibly.