Many of us are still in recovery mode after the milestone celebrations marking His Majesty King Mswati III’s 40 years on the Throne and his 58th Birthday. Without doubt, these stand out as some of the finest celebrations the kingdom has ever seen.
Beyond the vibrant cultural performances, the memorable Michael Jackson tributes, State dinners and grand parades, the events carried a deeper message. His Majesty the King reaffirmed his commitment to lead in partnership with his people, following in the footsteps of his predecessors. This pledge is significant because it promises continuity and stability – a rare and valuable asset, particularly in Africa. Predictable leadership reduces uncertainty, enabling citizens, businesses and investors to plan with confidence and commit capital more readily. In turn, this fosters economic growth, job creation and steady improvements in living standards.
As Nobel laureate Douglass North, renowned for his work on institutions observed, stable and predictable institutions are fundamental to strong economic performance. They lower transaction costs and encourage investment in productive activities rather than short-term survival strategies. In environments of political continuity, leaders can pursue long-term visionary goals without the distraction of constant power struggles. Eswatini’s experience bears this out: Four decades under the same Monarch have allowed sustained initiatives such as the Millennium Projects to take root, keeping the country focused on attaining First World status despite global headwinds.Those headwinds nearly overshadowed the festivities when the planned attendance of Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te was disrupted by external pressures. Several countries revoked overflight permissions amid reported coercion. In a display of determination and hospitality, King Mswati III responded by deploying the royal aircraft, ensuring the visit could proceed. President Lai eventually made the journey, underscoring the resilience of bilateral ties between the two nations.
This episode is a stark reminder of today’s world order. Powerful nations sometimes seek to dictate the choices of smaller States, undermining their sovereign right to engage freely with chosen partners. Such actions run counter to the principles of the United Nations Charter, which upholds equality among nations, self-determination and freedom from external interference. In an era where might too often overshadows right, Eswatini demonstrated courage and a steadfast commitment to genuine friendship and mutual respect. President Lai himself declared Taiwan’s resolve: “We will not give in to pressure,” while thanking the King and the people of Eswatini for their unwavering support.President Lai was among several heads of State and government who toured the newly- opened Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre. Visitors have been left in awe of its magnificent world-class design, luxurious finishes and an atmosphere reminiscent of leading international hubs such as Dubai.
The centre immediately strengthens Eswatini’s ability to host major continental and global events. Just a week after the celebrations, it has welcomed the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, an important gathering that showcases the kingdom to parliamentarians and delegates from Africa, the Caribbean, the Pacific and Europe. The event is already delivering economic benefits through hospitality, transport and related services, while positioning Eswatini as a reliable and attractive destination for investment and tourism.His Majesty rightly commended the visionaries who delivered the project. He praised Inyatsi Group Chairman Michelo Shakantu (affectionately referred to as ‘Shabangu’) and Construction Associates, the project architect nicknamed ‘Magesane’, Senzo Maziya and teams from the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development. As the King noted, it takes dedicated professionals to interpret and realise a bold vision. Their hard work, combined with effective government coordination, has created a facility of which all emaSwati can be proud.
Naturally, no major national celebration escapes criticism. Some voices will always highlight costs, question priorities or seek negatives. Such scrutiny has its place. Yet it is worth weighing the alternative: The staggering price of conflict across Africa. According to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, between 1996 and 2022, intense conflict was associated with an average 20 per cent reduction in annual economic growth. The Institute for Economics and Peace estimates that the economic impact of violence in highly affected countries can consume 30-60 per cent of GDP. Armed conflict costs the continent billions annually through lost output, displaced populations, destroyed infrastructure and resources diverted from schools and hospitals to military spending.
When measured against these enormous, multi-year losses, the cost of celebrating peace and stability once a decade seems not only justifiable, but wise. Peace allows a nation to build, dream and progress. Conflict destroys in ways that take generations to repair. Eswatini’s investment in unity, culture and infrastructure offers a refreshing counter-narrative to many of the continent’s more painful stories.
As the Ezulwini Palazzo welcomes international guests for the OACPS-EU conference, optimism is in the air. We wish the gathering every success in strengthening partnerships, opening new doors for trade and investment and placing Eswatini firmly on the global stage. In the years ahead, may the King and the nation continue to dream beyond limits. Bayethe!
His Majesty the King blowing the candles on the cake. (Pics: Joseph Zulu)