Ezulwini – The Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Dorcas Dlamini, has urged the youth to take a firm stand against corruption.
Dlamoni described corruption as a “cancer eating away at the very fibre of the society.”
She was delivering her keynote address under the global theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” at the Royal Villas, Ezulwini on Tuesday.
The PS said the day serves as an opportunity for governments to reflect honestly on their progress in combating corruption.
“Corruption is perceived to be a big problem in our country, with 93 percent of the population seeing it as rampant, while 49 percent admit they tolerate it if they benefit,” she said, referencing the 2017 National Corruption Perception Survey.
She noted that in 2023, the nation spoke with one voice during Sibaya, where emaSwati called for a more decisive fight against corruption.
“His Majesty the King subsequently issued a policy directive making the fight against corruption a top priority. We are fortunate that the Head of State models strong political commitment to tackling this cancer,” she said.
Eswatini was commended by peers for strengthening the Anti-Corruption Commission through key interventions such as the establishment of a Tripartite Task Team to handle complex cases, the deployment of 10 police officers to help clear backlogs, and continued training for ACC officers.
“The gains from this investment are beginning to show,” she added.
Dlamini said there is a central role of young people in shaping a more transparent future. Reflecting on an earlier round-table discussion with youth leaders, she said their insights highlighted how corruption deepens inequality, undermines development, and erodes trust.
“Their words remind us that we need young people to be part of the fight against corruption,” she stated.
She called for stronger collaboration between the Anti-Corruption Commission and youth groups, schools, and community structures, saying young people must be empowered to identify corruption early and champion ethical behaviour.
“As a nation, we must give young people the tools and opportunities to be part of this fight. We should listen to them, support their efforts, and work with them,” she said.
While acknowledging that corruption has become deeply rooted in society, she urged all sectors, including government, civil society, the private sector, the media, and the youth to change the current narrative by rejecting unethical practices and promoting integrity.
“Let’s support new ideas, promote a culture of honesty, and build a future where corruption has no place in our society,” she said.
Dlamini expressed confidence in the potential of Eswatini’s young people to drive lasting change.
“I want to assure you that the country believes in the power of young people. Together, we can make honesty and integrity the foundation of our society,” she said.
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