Mbabane – The Kingdom of Eswatini is set to host over 40 city managers from across the globe through the prestigious International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Global Exchange Programme.
This follows the successful bid by the Eswatini Local Authorities Managers Association (ELAMA) to host the 2025 edition of the programme. It positions Eswatini as an urban innovation hub and a leader in international cooperation.
The week-long programme, running from September 2 to 7, 2025, is expected to bring together city leaders from countries including the United States, Australia, and South Africa to exchange ideas, engage in urban development dialogue, and participate in collaborative learning, all aimed at equipping towns and cities with modern local governance strategies.
According to Manzini Public Relations Officer Phumlani Matse, “This programme provides a unique platform for Eswatini to showcase its innovative approaches to urban management while learning from global best practices.”
“This is more than just an exchange; it is an opportunity for meaningful partnerships and knowledge sharing that can benefit not only our cities but the entire region.”
The initiative forms part of a broader Southern African itinerary, with the second leg scheduled to be hosted by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) in Johannesburg.
Aligned with His Majesty King Mswati III’s Nkwe directive, the programme encourages emaSwati to act with courage, unity, and purpose in demonstrating the nation’s potential to the world. Matse noted, “The Nkwe spirit embodies bravery and progress, and this event reflects that philosophy by bringing together local and global leaders to shape the future of urban spaces.”
Municipalities across all cities and towns, under the leadership of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, have collaborated to ensure the event is well-coordinated and impactful. A highlight of the programme will be a Business Seminar themed “The Sustainable Urban Development Seminar,” hosted alongside the Eswatini International Trade Fair.
Matse explained, “Local, regional, and international professionals will come together with private sector experts to deliberate on pressing issues in urban governance, providing insights that can transform how our cities are managed.”
In addition to seminars, the international delegation will tour key strategic projects across the country. “These visits are designed to identify areas for collaboration, investment, and knowledge sharing,” Matse added, “so that Eswatini can not only showcase its successes but also learn from other cities’ experiences.”
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