By Tlalane Dlamini
MBABANE – Youth and Communications Consultant, Nathi Gule, recently returned from a fruitful visit to the European Union in Belgium, where he discovered that Eswatini holds a high regard and enjoys strong, positive relations with the EU and the global community.
Gule was among 14 Southern African journalists selected for a week-long visit from February 24 to 28, 2025. The visit was organized by the EU’s European External Action Service (EEAS) and aimed to explore EU institutions, tackle the challenges of disinformation, and exchange ideas on EU-Africa relations.
Reflecting on the experience, Gule shared, “Apart from the trainings and information sessions, it was a joy each time I shared about being from Eswatini and got very positive feedback. The main things about people who have been here are that they love the nature, the tranquility, the wildlife, and the culture. Also, Bushfire was highlighted as something that has now made Eswatini even more worth visiting.”
He recounted a conversation with an expert who visited Eswatini for work and had the opportunity to travel from Hlane to Shewula, Swazi Candles, Sibebe, Malolotja, and Ngwenya Glass. The visitor was particularly impressed by the warmth of the people and the scenic beauty of the kingdom.
Gule’s invitation came as a recognition of his contributions as a freelance writer and columnist for the Eswatini News publication, as well as his communications work with the EU Delegation (EUD).
The workshops in Brussels provided insights into EU-Eswatini relations, with positive feedback during the Q&A sessions. “What struck me during the workshops was the positive feedback about Eswatini. For example, there was a positive review of the EU Eswatini’s Youth Advisory Board and its progress. We got a positive report on EU and Eswatini trade and how the country handles EU projects,” Gule remarked.
He was also pleased to learn that Eswatini was listed among the six Southern African countries included in the SADC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) alongside Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, and South Africa.
During their visit, the journalists explored the EU’s relations with Africa, digital connectivity, freedom of speech, and the EU’s approach to Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI). They also visited the European News Room and Press Agency.
Expressing gratitude to the EEAS and the European Union in Eswatini, Gule said the lessons learned were empowering and would be shared widely.
In addition to his communication consultancy, Gule serves as the Chairperson of the Southern African Freelancers Association (SAFREA) and is a youth business mentor. He also hosts the annual Positivity Series podcast, which has been broadcast on Eswatini TV, further spreading positive narratives about Eswatini.
This enriching experience not only highlighted the warm relations between Eswatini and the EU but also underscored the opportunities for collaboration and growth, particularly for the youth and media sectors in Eswatini.
