Africa-Press – Eswatini. The late former Prime Minister of Eswatini, Prince Mabandla Ndawombili Fred Dlamini, third in line to hold the office, has been remembered as a humble, God-fearing, and upright man who lived a life of service and integrity.
These sentiments were shared by Their Majesties, government officials, relatives, and friends who gathered to pay their final respects during the memorial and funeral service.
The former Prime Minister was laid to rest on the wee hours of July 13, 2025 in accordance with Emalangeni customary rites at Ntfonjeni in the Hhohho Region, following a State Memorial Service held at Zakhele Free Evangelical Assemblies in Manzini and a night vigil at KaNdwandwe Umphakatsi in Ntfonjeni Chiefdom.
Prince Mabandla, who passed away on 29 June 2025 at the age of 94, was honoured with a full State Funeral. The Royal Eswatini Police Service paid their final respects with a gun salute and a ceremonial band escort symbolic acts likened by speakers to what will happen on the return of the Son of Man, Jesus Christ.
Speaking on behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III and Her Majesty the Indlovukazi, Prince Mandla said the Royal Family was deeply saddened by the Prince’s passing. “Everything happens for a reason,” he said. “It is God who plans everything.” He thanked all those who contributed to the funeral arrangements.
Representing the Government, Acting Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Hon. Jane Mkhonta-Simelane described the late Prince as a man who “worked as if working for the Lord.” She encouraged citizens to emulate his life of service and quoted Psalm 116:15: “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.”
Prince Mabandla’s son, Menzi Dlamini, speaking on behalf of the children, expressed gratitude to the Government, the Royal Family, and all who supported them during the difficult period. He described his father not only as a father to the family but also to the nation at large. “He taught us that education is important, to respect people regardless of age, and to follow Christ. I, myself, have chosen Jesus as my Lord and Saviour,” he shared emotionally.
His grandchildren reflected on the loving relationship he shared with their grandmother, Inkhosikati LaGinindza, which taught them to treat women with respect. They fondly recalled how he taught them about God through both his words and actions.
Prince Mabandla Ndawombili Fred Dlamini served as Prime Minister of Eswatini from 23 November 1979 to 25 March 1983. At the time of his passing, he held the position of the highest-ranking member of Liqoqo, His Majesty the King’s Advisory Council.
Mourners described him as a man of great humility, wisdom, humour, and unwavering moral standards a statesman whose life was a shining example of leadership grounded in faith and service.
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