As the nation gathers to celebrate His Majesty’s Ruby Jubilee, I find it fitting to take stock and look back at the 40 years of economic progress and resilience that emanated under the sovereign’s leadership. It has been a journey guiding the country from a least developed country into a lower middle-income country in just 15 years of ascending the Throne. This achievement is a testament to a young sovereign’s zeal to move the country and the people forward into the 20th century and ultimately into the 21st century. It is also a testament to the resilience, vision and determination of emaSwati under the guidance of His Majesty.
In a world where many small States struggle to find their footing, the kingdom has steadily advanced, building institutions, expanding opportunities and strengthening its identity as a proud and sovereign nation. The Ruby Jubilee thus symbolises not only longevity of leadership, but also the vitality of progress, a Crown of achievement forged through decades of perseverance.
Captaining tumultuous economic tides
The past four decades have not been without formidable challenges. His Majesty assumed the Throne in 1986, a period marked by regional transformation as neighbouring South Africa moved towards independence and the dismantling of apartheid. The country had made marked economic strides during this period, the unfortunate apartheid sanction embargo on SA and the instability in Mozambique created unique opportunities for Eswatini.
Also, the return to normalcy in the region opened the nation up to competition it had not had to deal with in the past. In response to these new challenges, the kingdom embarked on rapid industrialisation to remain competitive. The factory shells programme is a testament to His Majesty’s foresight and leadership.
The HIV/AIDS pandemic of the 1990s and early 2000s presented another profound test. With one of the highest prevalence rates in the world, Eswatini faced a crisis that threatened its social fabric and economic productivity. His Majesty’s leadership, alongside government and civil society, mobilised unprecedented resources to confront the epidemic. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, awareness campaigns and international partnerships helped to mitigate the impact, laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient population. The country has turned the tide being the first country in the globe to attain the UN AIDS 95/95/95 targets.
The global financial crisis of 2008 further strained Eswatini’s economy, exposing vulnerabilities in trade, investment and fiscal stability. Yet, through prudent management and regional cooperation, the kingdom weathered the storm. Similarly, the COVID19 pandemic of 2020 brought unprecedented disruption to lives and livelihoods; economic activity rebounded with a growth rate above eight per cent. His Majesty’s government responded with measures to protect public health, sustain essential services and support economic recovery. These crises underscored the importance of adaptability, foresight and solidarity qualities that have consistently defined the country’s governance under His Majesty’s reign.
Building the nation
Infrastructure development is perhaps the crowning gem on His Majesty’s crown of accolades. The nation’s infrastructure improved immensely under the unwavering leadership of His Majesty. The country’s roads, rail, aviation, tourism and ICT infrastructure have seen marked improvements over the past 40 years. The nation boasts ‘spaghetti’ dual carriage highways connecting the country’s trading hubs. These are interlinked with the rail infrastructure, aviation infrastructure and all the tourist nodes of the kingdom. Eswatini boasts connectivity above regional comparator countries. Also, the nation boasts over 85 per cent electricity coverage, 75 per cent water coverage, above 100 per cent cellphone coverage and above 60 per cent 4g internet coverage.
Recognising the digital revolution, the kingdom has embraced information and communication technologies as engines of innovation. Investments in broadband connectivity, government platforms and digital literacy programmes have opened new avenues for education, entrepreneurship and service delivery. Young people, in particular, are finding opportunities in the digital economy, ensuring that Eswatini remains competitive in a rapidly changing global environment.Blessed with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions, Eswatini has steadily cultivated tourism as a driver of economic diversification. The kingdom’s festivals, wildlife reserves and hospitality sector attract visitors from across the world, showcasing the country’s unique identity. Tourism not only generates revenue, but also strengthens cultural pride, reinforcing the values of unity and tradition that lie at the heart of the nation.
A legacy of unity and resilience
As the world conglomerates to celebrate His Majesty’s Ruby Jubilee, the nation bows in reverence to His Majesty King Mswati III, whose 40 years of leadership have illuminated the path of progress. The kingdom’s journey from vulnerability to resilience, from modest beginnings to lower-middle income status, is a story of determination and vision. Through economic storms, health crises and global upheavals, His Majesty has steered the nation with wisdom, ensuring that it not only survives, but thrives.
His Majesty’s reign embodies the brilliance of the kingdom’s journey. The Jubilee is not merely a commemoration of years; it is a celebration of achievements, sacrifices and aspirations that unite emaSwati. May the legacy of these 40 years continue to inspire generations to come, anchoring the kingdom in unity, prosperity and pride. May the next chapter in His Majesty’s journey usher in a golden era for the kingdom, adorned with First World prosperity for all.
During the rehearsal for the King's Birthday celebration.