BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MATSAPHA – The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) on Friday, July 31, 2026, celebrated its 23rd Annual Police Day, marking 119 years of policing in the Kingdom with a call for continued professionalism, integrity and stronger partnerships with the public.
Held at the Matsapha Police Academy under the theme “Policing with Agape Love,” the celebration was graced by Their Majesties King Mswati III and the Indlovukazi.
Also in attendance were His Excellency Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, Deputy Prime Minister Senator Thulisile Dladla, Cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament from both Houses, senior government officials, security chiefs and invited guests from Botswana, Lesotho, Rwanda, Namibia and Mozambique.
Upon his arrival, His Majesty King Mswati III inspected the parade before members of REPS showcased precision drills, demonstrating the discipline, professionalism and commitment that have defined the Service throughout its 119-year history.
Spearking during an interview before the commencement of activities Minister of Health Honourable Mduduzi Matsebula congratulated members of REPS on reaching another milestone and thanked them for their unwavering dedication to protecting the nation.
“Your service to the nation does not go unnoticed. Congratulations on your 23rd Police Day, and thank you for your continued commitment to serving emaSwati,” he said.
Former National Commissioner of Police and Senator Isaac Magagula called on emaSwati to support the police in the fight against crime, saying policing could only succeed through cooperation between law enforcement and the public.
“Policing is everyone’s responsibility. The Royal Eswatini Police Service cannot effectively fight crime or maintain law and order without the support and cooperation of the nation,” he said.
Magagula also reflected on his policing career, saying he served the organisation for 43 years, including 10 years as National Commissioner. He described the Matsapha Police Academy as “home away from home” and said attending the celebration brought back many cherished memories.
Ludzeludze Member of Parliament Nomkhosi Masuku encouraged police officers to continue serving the country with integrity, professionalism and dedication. She also assured officers that Parliament would continue advocating for improved welfare, including better housing, vehicles and other resources needed to strengthen policing.
The annual celebration brought together serving and retired police officers, government leaders, regional delegates and members of the public in honouring the men and women of the Royal Eswatini Police Service for more than a century of dedicated service to the Kingdom.
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