By Mbongeni Ndlela
MBABANE – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has joined African leaders in Kampala, Uganda, for the Extraordinary Summit of AU Heads of State and Government on the Post-Malabo Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP).
The Summit, held under the theme “Sustainable and Resilient Agrifood Systems for a Healthy and Prosperous Africa,” seeks to reshape Africa’s agricultural landscape over the next decade.
The two-day event is expected to endorse the Kampala Declaration, a strategic vision for transforming Africa’s agrifood systems for the 2026–2035 period. In addition, the Summit will approve a 10-year Strategy and Action Plan, outlining detailed steps to achieve the goals set out in the declaration. These plans are aimed at building resilient, sustainable agricultural systems to address food security challenges while boosting economic growth across the continent.
The premier, representing the Kingdom of Eswatini, is scheduled to deliver an intervention during the Summit, highlighting Eswatini’s priorities and contributions to Africa’s agricultural transformation.
His presence underscores the country’s commitment to regional collaboration and sustainable development in agriculture, which remains a critical sector for Eswatini’s economy and livelihoods.
Accompanying the Prime Minister at the Summit are a delegation of senior government officials, including:
• H.E. Pholile Shakantu, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation,
• Hon. Mandla Tshawuka, Minister of Agriculture
• Hon. Phila Buthelezi, Minister of Labour and Social Security, and
• H.E. Mahlaba Mamba, Eswatini’s High Commissioner to Uganda.
The Summit brings together African Heads of State, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss practical ways to strengthen agrifood systems. Discussions will focus on boosting productivity, ensuring sustainability, and fostering resilience against challenges such as climate change, conflicts, and economic shocks.
The CAADP initiative, launched in 2003 under the African Union, has been instrumental in guiding member states toward agricultural development goals. The Post-Malabo phase aims to build on past achievements by promoting innovation, investment, and collaboration.
Eswatini’s participation reflects its dedication to sustainable agriculture as a cornerstone of national and regional prosperity. By engaging in this continental dialogue, the country hopes to contribute to shaping Africa’s agricultural future, ensuring food security and economic growth for generations to come.
This Summit marks a pivotal step toward realizing the African Union’s vision of a thriving, food-secure continent by 2035.
