Africa-Press – Eswatini. When world leaders gathered at the sun-drenched coast of Nice for the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference, few expected a land-linked country like Eswatini to take center stage.
But Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, speaking on behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III, delivered one of the conference’s most powerful messages: that protecting the oceans starts far upstream, in countries like Eswatini.
In a heartfelt and visionary address, the Premier emphasized that Eswatini’s rivers, Komati, Mbuluzi, and Great Usuthu, carry more than just water. They carry responsibility.
“Our rivers flow into the Indian Ocean. What begins in Eswatini affects the health of the seas,” he told delegates, positioning the Kingdom as both guardian and global partner in environmental stewardship.
A Land-Linked Nation with a Sea of Commitment
Eswatini’s participation at the conference was not symbolic—it was strategic. As an export-driven economy that depends on ocean ports in neighboring countries, the PM said Eswatini is fully invested in global blue economy discussions and sustainable maritime trade.
The country’s new Programme of Action (2024/25–2028/29) is proof of that investment. Built on the theme “Igniting Wealth and Well-being for the Nation”, the plan integrates climate, environmental, and social priorities across sectors.
Leading by Action, Not Just Words
In his remarks, the PM outlined several bold national commitments:
Eradicating plastic waste and supporting a global plastics ban;
Promoting regenerative agriculture and eliminating harmful chemicals from farming;
Reviving rural economies through modern, sustainable practices;
Developing a Climate Finance Strategy under Eswatini’s strengthened Climate Change Department.
Eswatini is also preparing to participate meaningfully in the upcoming Global Plastic Treaty Conference in Geneva, where it will push for fair mechanisms that support innovation, green finance, and inclusive growth for developing nations.
Citizens at the Centre
What sets Eswatini apart is its focus on people. Government is mainstreaming environmental awareness in schools, integrating sustainability into national communications, and treating citizens as partners, not just policy recipients.
“Development cannot be sustained without collective consciousness and shared responsibility,” the PM said, reinforcing that success relies on every liSwati being informed and involved.
A Call for Unity
The Premier ended his address with a rousing call for deeper collaboration between inland and coastal nations.
“Eswatini may be landlocked, but we are not disconnected. Our rivers do not end at our borders, and neither does our responsibility.”
Conclusion:
From the green highlands of Eswatini to the blue depths of the Indian Ocean, the Kingdom is charting a hopeful, responsible course. In a time when global challenges demand local action, Eswatini is proving that size and location do not limit leadership, they define it.
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