Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini’s leadership demonstrated unity and cultural pride on Day Four of the Annual Cabinet Retreat, held just a day before the State Opening of the Third Session of the 12th Parliament.
The retreat, which began on Monday, brought together Cabinet Ministers, Principal Secretaries and senior Government officials for strategic reflection and planning. On Day Four, participants were dressed in traditional regalia, symbolising national unity and a shared commitment to cultural heritage.
The day’s proceedings opened with a message of hope delivered by Pastor Mark Ward, who spoke on prayer, righteousness, pride and perseverance. He reassured Cabinet members of the Lord’s abiding love and faithfulness, setting a reflective and inspirational tone for the day.
In his opening remarks earlier in the week, Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini underscored the importance of unity, discipline and collective responsibility in advancing the country’s development agenda. He emphasised that the retreat was not merely a routine gathering, but a platform to strengthen coordination, sharpen policy focus and ensure that Government delivers effectively on its mandate to serve emaSwati.
The Prime Minister encouraged leaders to remain people-centred in their approach and to work collaboratively across ministries, noting that meaningful progress requires shared vision and accountability.
Also addressing the gathering was the United Nations Resident Coordinator, George Wachira, who commended Government for prioritising strategic reflection and inclusive development. He reaffirmed the UN’s continued partnership with Eswatini, highlighting the importance of good governance, sustainable development and resilience in achieving national and global development goals.
The Cabinet Retreat (Day 4) comes a day before the State Opening of the Third Session of the 12th Parliament, a significant national event that underscores the country’s constitutional processes and governance framework.
In line with a tradition adopted during the 9th Parliament (around 2009), legislators will don traditional regalia during the official opening. The practice was introduced after the then Senate President, Gelane Zwane, encouraged Members of Parliament to embrace traditional attire during the ceremony. The initiative was praised by His Majesty King Mswati III when he delivered the Speech from the Throne that year, commending the legislators for honouring the nation’s cultural identity.
This continued observance of traditional regalia at key national events reflects Eswatini’s commitment to preserving its heritage while advancing its governance and development agenda.
As the nation prepares for the State Opening of Parliament, the spirit of unity, faith and cultural pride displayed at the Cabinet Retreat serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to build a prosperous and cohesive Kingdom.
