What You Need to Know
Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo is set to attend the 40th anniversary celebrations of King Mswati III’s reign in Eswatini. The event, marking a significant Ruby Jubilee, will take place at Somhlolo National Stadium, with other SADC leaders also expected to join. The King will celebrate his 58th birthday during this occasion, highlighting the importance of this milestone for the region.
Africa-Press – Mozambique. Other SADC Heads of State expected to attend include Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and King Letsie III
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and others are yet to confirm their attendance
King Mswati III will celebrate 40 years on the throne and his 58th birthday at Somhlolo National Stadium on Friday, April 24, 2026, marking a major Ruby Jubilee
His Excellency Daniel Chapo, the Mozambican President, will together with other Heads of State within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, attend King Mswati’s forty (40) years on the Throne and birthday double celebration.
This is according to information shared to this Swaziland News by very senior Government officials within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs, preparing for the upcoming event to be held at Somhlolo National Stadium on Friday this week, the King will then host the Heads of State at the newly completed International Convention Centre (ICC) and Five Star Hotel (FISH).
Other SADC Heads of State expected to attend include Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Lesotho King Letsie while Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and others are yet to confirm their attendance.
Eswatini Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli was not immediately available for a comment regarding the high profile Heads of State visit.
On another note, King Mswati is highly expected to welcome Taiwan President William Lai Ching-te who will also grace the event, Eswatini is the only country in the African continent with diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
King Mswati received birthday gifts (tetfulo) from various companies and emaSwati amounting to over R20million on Saturday night on the eve of his birthday, Queen Mother Ntombi Tfwala described the gifts as a demonstration of love for the King.
King Mswati III ascended to the throne in 1986, making him one of the longest-serving monarchs in Africa. His reign has been marked by both cultural celebrations and political challenges, including calls for democratic reforms. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) plays a crucial role in regional cooperation, and such gatherings of heads of state often emphasize solidarity among member nations. The upcoming celebration not only honors the King but also reflects the diplomatic ties within the region.
