BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – Government has successfully facilitated the voluntary repatriation of Mr. Orville Isaac Etoria, a Jamaican national who had been temporarily hosted under the United States’ Third Country Prisoners (TCP) Programme.
A Story of Partnership and Dignity
Mr. Etoria, who arrived in Eswatini in July this year with four other immigrants from Cuba, Laos, Vietnam, and Yemen, made the personal decision to return home to Jamaica. On Sunday, 21 September 2025, his journey came full circle as he safely reunited with his family, who warmly welcomed him back.
This milestone is not only a personal triumph for Mr. Etoria but also a shining example of Eswatini’s commitment to upholding human dignity and fostering peaceful solutions through international collaboration.
Global Cooperation at Work
The success of this repatriation was made possible through the close partnership between Eswatini and the United States, a relationship rooted in mutual trust and cooperation. The Government also expressed deep gratitude to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), whose technical and logistical support ensured a smooth process.
Equally significant was the contribution of the Government of Jamaica, which maintained open lines of communication through its High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa. The countries of transit that assisted along the way also played a pivotal role in ensuring Mr. Etoria’s safe and seamless return.
Looking Ahead: More Repatriations Planned
While celebrating this success, the Government has confirmed that engagements are ongoing with the remaining four immigrants. Plans are being put in place to facilitate their repatriation to their respective home countries, ensuring that the same dignity, care, and international cooperation guide the process.
Eswatini’s Role in the Global Community
This development highlights Eswatini’s growing role as a responsible partner on the international stage. By providing temporary hosting and facilitating safe, voluntary returns, the Kingdom demonstrates not only compassion but also its ability to work constructively with global partners in managing complex humanitarian matters.
As Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli emphasized, this achievement reflects the spirit of solidarity that Eswatini embraces, bridging nations, supporting individuals, and reinforcing the values of humanity and respect for all.
