Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Kingdom of Eswatini has successfully verified over 2 000 refugees and asylum seekers as part of an ongoing national exercise to strengthen refugee protection and support systems.
The update comes from the 2025/2026 first quarter performance report released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which highlights the progress made by the Refugees Department in fulfilling its mandate to safeguard the welfare of refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless persons in the country.
A System Rooted in Law and Humanity
Guided by the Refugees Act No. 15 of 2017, Eswatini’s approach is aligned with international and regional commitments under the Global Refugee Framework (GRF). The framework promotes stronger asylum systems, economic inclusion, and the eradication of statelessness.
The ongoing verification exercise ensures that all registered refugees and asylum seekers present themselves for biometric enrolment and personal information updates, improving service delivery and national record accuracy.
Marking Solidarity on World Refugee Day
The Department also commemorated World Refugee Day on 20 June 2025 under the theme “Solidarity with Refugees”, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to compassion and inclusion.
While voluntary repatriations and resettlement efforts were temporarily halted due to funding challenges faced by the UNHCR, the Department confirmed that plans are underway to resume these humanitarian processes—particularly those delayed in January 2025.
Strengthening Partnerships for Refugee Support
The Refugees Department works hand in hand with strategic partners, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and World Vision Eswatini, who provide technical and financial support. Each year, the Government signs a tripartite agreement with these partners, clearly outlining responsibilities.
Other crucial stakeholders include the diplomatic community, UN agencies, the private sector, and non-governmental organisations, all playing a role in enhancing refugee welfare across Eswatini.
A Spike in New Arrivals and Renewals
Between April and June 2025, the country recorded 113 new arrivals—an increase that reflects both Eswatini’s stability and its commitment to humanitarian obligations. These individuals were screened, documented, and integrated into the national database.
In the same period, the Department processed 85 applications for refugee status permit renewals, with 75 permits successfully dispatched. These permits are crucial as they allow refugees to access essential services such as banking, employment, education, and official documentation, helping them build secure lives in their host communities.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Continued Support
As Eswatini continues to enhance its asylum system, the Ministry of Home Affairs is calling for increased donor support to upgrade infrastructure, resume voluntary repatriations, and build more livelihood opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers.
This milestone marks a positive step forward in building an inclusive, resilient society where every individual—regardless of their country of origin—has the right to live in dignity, peace, and hope.
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