Africa-Press – Eswatini. Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla has highlighted the invaluable relationship between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Vatican, calling it a “lifelong partnership rooted in shared values of compassion, peace, and service to humanity.”
Speaking with solemnity and deep reflection upon her return from the funeral Mass of His Holiness Pope Francis, Dladla paid glowing tribute to the Pontiff’s extraordinary global legacy while reinforcing Eswatini’s commitment to the ideals championed by the Catholic Church.
“The government of Eswatini remains profoundly grateful for the enduring friendship and solidarity we have enjoyed with the Vatican,” Dladla said.
“Our shared mission of uplifting the poor, educating the youth, and nurturing peace among nations remains a beacon of hope in an increasingly divided world.
” She emphasized that this partnership is not merely ceremonial but practical and longstanding—especially in the areas of education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid.
The Deputy Prime Minister who was representing His Majesty King Mswati III, Her Majesty the Indlovukazi, and the people of Eswatini, described her official presence in Vatican City as an emotionally significant moment for the country.
“It is with a heart full of reverence and reflection that I returned from the Vatican, where I joined over 120 countries in mourning a man whose life was dedicated to the welfare of the global family,” she said.
She noted how Pope Francis’ vision resonated deeply with the aspirations of the Kingdom of Eswatini, especially his call to safeguard the environment, eradicate poverty, and promote dignity for all.
“His Holiness was a spiritual compass whose leadership stood firm against social injustice, marginalization, and human suffering,” Dladla added. “His voice for the voiceless echoed the very spirit of ubuntu we cherish.”
Dladla also highlighted how Eswatini’s own journey has been shaped by the contributions of the Catholic Church.
“Catholic schools have nurtured generations of emaSwati, equipping them with both academic excellence and strong moral grounding,” she said.
“In our rural and underserved communities, Catholic hospitals and clinics have extended a lifeline to thousands, offering not only treatment but compassion.”
Government commends Vatican for lifelong partnership in uplifting humanity – Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla addressing the media before jetting out to the funeral.
She pointed out that during national hardships, the Catholic Church had stood with the people whether during periods of drought, economic difficulty, or healthcare crises.
“Its outreach has gone beyond the church walls to touch homes and hearts in the most practical of ways,” she said. “That is the mark of a true partner in national development.”
Moroever, recalling the special rapport between His Majesty King Mswati III and Pope Francis, Dladla emphasized the significance of the monarch’s state visit to the Vatican in October 2024.
“Their meeting was steeped in mutual respect and unity of vision,” she said. “They discussed faith, peace, and the humanitarian mission of the Church. It was a meeting not only of leaders but of two servants of their people and of humanity.”
She recalled how the King and Inkhosikati were taken on a special tour of the historic St. Peter’s Basilica after their private audience, an event she described as diplomatically rich and spiritually elevating.
“This visit reaffirmed the warmth and depth of our relationship with the Vatican,” Dladla said.
The Deputy Prime Minister concluded her reflections by expressing Eswatini’s deep sorrow at the passing of Pope Francis and its continued solidarity with the global Catholic community.
“We join the world in mourning a true servant of God,” she said. “His legacy of love, sacrifice, and unshakable faith in the goodness of mankind will live on. We carry forward not only our prayers but also our commitment to the ideals he stood for.”
She further stated, “As a government, we remain inspired by the Vatican’s work and grateful for its footprint in Eswatini.
The values of compassion, humility, and unity will continue to guide our partnership in serving the people and building a more just world.”
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