Africa-Press – Eswatini. Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini yesterday opened his doors, and his heart, to UNICEF’s Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Ms. Etleva Kadilli, during a landmark courtesy visit at the Private and Cabinet Office.
Their meeting was more than a diplomatic formality. It was a powerful reaffirmation of Eswatini’s unwavering commitment to children, the nation’s most treasured asset. From early childhood education to life-saving health interventions, the dialogue reflected a shared vision: nurturing a generation that is not only healthy and educated but fully empowered to lead the Kingdom into a brighter tomorrow.
Discussions touched on pressing issues affecting children, including the urgent need to strengthen Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), the rising cases of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, cancer, and kidney disorders among the young, and the concerning increase in HIV prevalence among teenage girls.
Yet, amid the gravity of these challenges, the meeting radiated optimism.
Ms. Kadilli praised Eswatini’s leadership for placing children and education at the core of the national development agenda. She commended the country for being bold, intentional, and consistent in its policies, especially in prioritising ECCD, vocational training, and health programmes tailored for the youth.
In response, the Premier expressed Eswatini’s aspiration to develop a comprehensive national programme, one that integrates UNICEF’s global expertise with local ambition, addressing health, education, and child protection holistically.
“We deeply appreciate UNICEF’s ongoing support as we work toward nurturing a healthy, educated, and empowered generation,” the PM declared, his voice resonating with purpose.
Despite global challenges affecting foreign aid flows, both parties agreed on one key truth: the future of children cannot wait. And through strengthened partnership, Eswatini and UNICEF are charting a bold, united course to secure that future.
As the sun set over Mbabane, the message from the nation’s capital was clear, Eswatini is not just talking about change for children. It is building it, step by step, in partnership with champions like UNICEF.
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