LOBAMBA — His Majesty King Mswati III on Friday officially opened the Third Session of the 12th Parliament, delivering a wide ranging Speech from the Throne that marked 40 years since he ascended to the throne in 1986.
Addressing lawmakers, traditional leaders, diplomats and invited guests at Lobamba on 20 February 2026, the King paid tribute to Emaswati for remaining united with the Crown through four decades of social, political and economic change, saying the monarchy draws its strength from the people.
He described 2026 as a year of agape love and called on citizens to demonstrate selfless service, honesty and commitment to national interests. Reflecting on the country’s journey since 1986, he said Eswatini has undergone major transformation, citing modern highways, dams and an international airport, expanded social welfare programmes for the elderly and persons with disabilities, and poverty alleviation initiatives that have improved lives across communities.
Life expectancy has risen from 32 years in 1986 to 65 years today, while the economy has grown from about E1.4 billion to more than E95 billion. He noted that population growth has nearly doubled during the same period and that peace and stability have supported development.
Despite these gains, the King said the country still has work to do to achieve its First World vision. He urged efforts to raise GDP per capita from the current E78,238 to E480,000 and to build a resilient economy less dependent on Southern African Customs Union revenues by diversifying income sources.
He said growth has recently been driven largely by the construction sector through major public projects and private sector expansion. Planned initiatives include the International Convention Centre scheduled to open this year, a strategic oil reserve now under construction and expected to be completed by 2028, major dam projects and a proposed E6 billion industrial park aimed at attracting investment and creating jobs.
The King called for deliberate targets to build large domestic companies capable of generating billions in annual turnover, arguing that this would strengthen national revenue and reduce unemployment over time.
Eswatini’s position among the top 10 African countries for business readiness in the B Ready 2025 report by the World Bank was welcomed as a sign of growing investor confidence. He urged authorities to promote the country’s stability, digital infrastructure and strategic location to attract investors.
Infrastructure development remains a priority, with government aiming to pave 500 kilometres of roads by 2028, including upgrades to routes such as Siphofaneni to Maloma to Nsoko and Siphambanweni. However, heavy rains have damaged some roads, prompting calls for swift restoration.
On energy security, the King said the country should work toward generating 50 percent of electricity from solar, biomass and other renewable sources by 2030 while addressing rising costs of imported power and financial challenges facing the Eswatini Electricity Company.
Mining was identified as another underperforming sector despite abundant natural resources. He called for exploration, value addition and processing industries aligned with continental trade opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area launched by the African Union.
Tourism prospects were linked to the completion of the International Convention Centre, which is expected to boost conference tourism when commissioned in April. Completion of an adjoining hotel remains outstanding.
In agriculture, the King said heavy rains had destroyed crops in some areas, while the resurgence of foot and mouth disease threatens livestock production. He urged stronger prevention measures, public awareness and vaccination to contain the outbreak. Government support to subsistence farmers and climate resilience programmes will continue.
Access to clean water stands at about 75 percent of the population, with a goal of universal coverage by 2030. On technology, he called for a full transition from analogue systems to digital infrastructure, including the introduction of modern passports to improve travel efficiency and security.
Social programmes such as the Regional Development Fund, youth empowerment initiatives and housing schemes were cited as important tools to reduce poverty, create business opportunities and limit rural to urban migration. He also called for continued support for the elderly.
The health sector was another focus, particularly ongoing drug shortages in public facilities. He said medicine stock outs must end and that sustainable long term supply systems are needed. On HIV prevention, he noted that Eswatini has been selected as the first country in Africa to participate in the Lenacapavir injection programme administered twice yearly to reduce new infections.
The King expressed concern over domestic violence and gender based abuse, linking many cases to alcohol and drug misuse, and urged citizens to report incidents to authorities.
Education reforms are underway to align curricula with national development goals and global trends, with a focus on technology skills and improved teacher training. He encouraged young people to use technology productively, complete their schooling and avoid early parenthood.
Internationally, Eswatini will assume the chairmanship of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation Troika this year, reinforcing its role in promoting regional peace. The country will continue working with regional and global bodies including the Southern African Development Community and the United Nations.
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