MBABANE, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Pholile Shakantu has cautioned emaSwati against travelling abroad under false pretences after a video of a local man arriving in Dublin, Ireland without money, plans or accommodation went viral.
The video, shared on an Irish discussion platform called No Risk No Reward, shows the man claiming he had problems in Eswatini and was seeking accommodation in Dublin despite having no concrete plans. The platform, known for its investigative commentary, described the man’s arrival as an example of “chancing” where individuals travel to Ireland expecting free food, shelter and a better life without proper preparation.
Minister Shakantu confirmed that government is aware some emaSwati are seeking asylum overseas by claiming political persecution or instability in Eswatini. She warned that such false claims undermine the credibility of genuine asylum seekers globally and can lead to serious legal consequences including deportation and loss of future opportunities for legal employment abroad.
She also raised concern about the risk of human trafficking, noting that those travelling without secure plans become vulnerable targets for criminal networks.
According to the Irish host, travelling from Eswatini to Dublin typically involves flights through Johannesburg, Dubai and finally into Ireland, a costly journey. He questioned how the man could afford such travel yet arrive without arrangements for housing or income.
During the recorded exchange, the man admitted he had visited Ireland’s International Protection Office and was expecting temporary hotel accommodation. He also revealed that he came to Ireland alone and had “problems” back home, though he did not specify with whom.
The Irish commentator argued that those in genuine crisis could seek refuge in nearby African countries rather than undertaking expensive trips to Europe. He concluded that many such arrivals are motivated by the hope of free services despite the high cost of living in Ireland.
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