Africa-Press – Eswatini. Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has officially opened the first-ever Tourism Nkwe Conference 2025, calling on government, the private sector, and international partners to work together in unlocking the Kingdom’s vast tourism potential.
Speaking at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini on Thursday, 21 August 2025, the Prime Minister described the conference as a historic milestone in Eswatini’s journey towards double-digit GDP growth under the Nkwe Programme of Action and the Grand Plan for National Transformation.
“This conference is dedicated to unlocking the immense potential of our beloved Kingdom’s hospitality and tourism sector,” said Dlamini. “Tourism has a central role to play in His Majesty’s vision for a developed Eswatini.”
Tourism as a growth engine
The Prime Minister emphasised that government is pursuing ambitious economic growth targets and sees the hospitality and tourism industry as a key driver of inclusive development. He noted that Eswatini’s unique cultural heritage, pristine landscapes, rich traditions and welcoming spirit remain an untold story that the world is eager to experience.
“Eswatini stands as a great tourism destination, from our culture and traditions to our natural landscapes and wildlife. We must work together to grow our industry and fully leverage these opportunities,” he said.
Dlamini challenged stakeholders to pursue investment across diverse areas of tourism, including cultural, religious, medicinal and eco-tourism, while ensuring that growth is sustainable and beneficial to local communities.
Addressing barriers and seizing opportunities
While acknowledging existing challenges, the Prime Minister urged stakeholders to view them as opportunities for improvement. He pointed to the need for:
Streamlined visa regulations
World-class sustainability practices
Stronger regional and bilateral tourism partnerships
Clear alignment with UNWTO global standards
He stressed that Eswatini should aim for quality over quantity in tourism, prioritising authentic visitor experiences that showcase the Kingdom’s distinctiveness.
Building partnerships and skills
PM Dlamini called for greater investment in talent development, noting that the industry must nurture skills to deliver world-class hospitality while ensuring safe and convenient access by road and air.
He also underscored the importance of forging regional and international partnerships, saying: “Just as a single thread cannot weave a tapestry, no one entity can build a thriving tourism industry alone. It requires the combined strength of Government, the private sector and international partners.”
Setting the tone for transformation
The Prime Minister welcomed the objectives of the Tourism Nkwe Conference, including identifying opportunities and challenges in the sector, developing actionable recommendations, and positioning Eswatini as a premier destination for investors and travellers alike.
“Let this conference be the spark that ignites a new era for Eswatini tourism,” he declared. “Together, we can build an industry that is economically prosperous, culturally enriching, and environmentally sustainable for generations to come.”
The inaugural Tourism Nkwe Conference brought together government officials, industry leaders, municipal representatives, international tourism executives and development partners to chart a way forward for Eswatini’s tourism sector.
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