BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LOBAMBA– The newly unveiled International Convention Centre (ICC), now known as Ezulwini Palazzo, has been described as a facility capable of hosting meetings at the level of the United Nations, positioning Eswatini as a serious contender in the global conference space.
The strong sentiments were expressed during a Senate sitting on April 27, 2026, as members contributed to a motion tabled by Senator Isaac Magagula.
Leading the debate, Senator His Royal Highness Prince Lonkhokhela, Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, said the ICC is built to the highest international standards and can host major global institutions.
“What we have seen at the ICC is what you expect in major cities across the world. It is unique and of a standard that can host institutions such as the United Nations and the World Bank,” he said.
He emphasised that the facility is a major investment magnet and will unlock opportunities that were previously out of reach for Eswatini. He revealed that high-level engagements are already being lined up, including a summit of African Ministers of Natural Resources scheduled for next year.
Prince Lonkhokhela noted that such meetings had in the past been postponed due to lack of suitable venues and accommodation, but said the ICC has now removed those limitations.
“With this facility, those challenges are now behind us. The ICC will attract global meetings and investors into the country,” he said.
He further highlighted that the Ezulwini Palazzo will stimulate the growth of supporting infrastructure such as hotels, shopping complexes and other commercial developments, describing it as a catalyst for broader economic expansion.
Adding to the debate, Senator Isaac Magagula said the ICC marks a turning point, recalling that Eswatini had previously failed to host major international meetings, including Interpol engagements, due to inadequate facilities.
“These meetings would have boosted our economy and tourism sector. The ICC changes that and opens doors for international conferences,” he said.
Senator Ndumiso Mdluli described the facility as first-world class, while Senator Prince Ngangabani said the ICC is proof that government delivers on its promises and urged emaSwati not to judge projects prematurely.
“It is a lesson that what is promised can be achieved. What we have seen at the ICC speaks for itself,” he said.
Other Senators, including Chief Zabeni and Lizzie Nkosi, also commended the standard of the facility, noting that it has exceeded expectations.
Senate President Lindiwe Dlamini said the experience at the ICC was “like a dream,” highlighting that His Majesty King Mswati III shared a vision of transformation during the gala dinner held at the venue.
She said the facility reflects a philosophy of thinking big and adopting global best practices, positioning Eswatini for a new era of development.
The Senate concluded that the Ezulwini Palazzo is not only a landmark infrastructure project but a strategic asset that will enable Eswatini to host international meetings at the highest level, attract investment, and drive sustained economic growth.
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