Africa-Press – Eswatini. His Majesty King Mswati III officially opened the Third Session of the 12th Parliament with a wide-ranging Speech from the Throne, outlining 35 bold directives designed to accelerate Eswatini’s economic transformation, strengthen social services, deepen national unity and position the Kingdom for long-term prosperity.
The address, delivered as the nation marks 40 years of His Majesty’s reign, set a clear roadmap for 2026 and beyond, anchored on economic diversification, infrastructure expansion, digital transformation, youth empowerment, social protection and regional leadership.
Economic Transformation and Revenue Diversification
Government must reconfigure the country’s financial structure to reduce reliance on SACU receipts and taxes, broadening revenue streams.
Establish at least 10 companies with a minimum annual turnover of E10 billion across different sectors.
Encourage strategic local investment of at least E8 billion into viable industries capable of tripling returns and creating employment.
Aspire to eliminate unemployment over the next 40 years.
Intensify marketing of Eswatini as a preferred investment destination following its strong business readiness ranking.
Infrastructure Development
Achieve the target of paving 500km of roads by 2028, including major upgrades and restoration of rain-damaged infrastructure.
Return to the drawing board to finalise plans for the new Parliament building and campus.
Structure capital projects to incentivise private sector participation.
Complete construction of the Strategic Oil Reserve by 2028 to ensure fuel security.
Expand the nationwide factory shells construction programme to attract FDI and create youth jobs.
Energy and Mining
Generate at least 50% of electricity locally through solar, biomass and renewable energy by 2030.
Work with Eswatini Electricity Company to resolve financial challenges and rising import costs.
Review and strengthen the mining sector to unlock its full potential.
Promote mineral value addition and beneficiation through processing zones.
Tourism and Agriculture
Commission the International Convention Centre and use generated revenue to complete the adjacent hotel.
Expand climate resilience and preparedness programmes for vulnerable communities.
Continue subsidising subsistence farmers to enhance food security.
Intensify efforts to eliminate Foot and Mouth Disease, strengthen awareness campaigns and secure vaccines.
Water and Digital Transformation
Achieve universal access to clean water by 2030.
Transition all government systems from analogue to digital platforms.
Introduce secure digital passports to enhance travel efficiency and prevent forgery.
Poverty Reduction and Social Development
Restructure budgeting systems to prioritise poverty elimination and economic growth.
Strengthen the Regional Development Fund to stimulate grassroots businesses and curb urban migration.
Enhance the National Housing Initiative so that no one is left behind.
Review and strengthen the Youth Fund to ensure sustainable livelihoods.
Ensure continued care and dignity for the elderly.
Health and Social Protection
End drug shortages in health facilities and establish sustainable long-term supply chains.
Intensify efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030, including rollout of the Lenacapavir injection programme.
Take a firm national stance against gender-based violence and encourage early reporting.
Education and Youth Empowerment
Integrate modern technology into the education system aligned with national development goals.
Investigate causes of regional academic underperformance.
Prioritise teacher training to ensure effective curriculum implementation.
International Trade and Diplomacy
Expand and safeguard export markets through bilateral, regional and multilateral agreements.
Lead the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation in promoting peace and stability.
Broadcast parliamentary debates live to enhance transparency and accountability.
A Vision Anchored in Unity and Transformation
As the Kingdom moves into 2026, the King called upon the nation to embrace unity, patriotism and service above self-interest. The 35 directives collectively form a bold national agenda designed to secure economic resilience, social justice and inclusive growth for the next generation. The message was clear: Eswatini must rise with determination, innovation and unity to achieve its First World vision.
