MBABANE- The Honourable Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, has officially bid farewell to two local artists set to represent Eswatini in India, while also commending Gogo and Silwane for their outstanding representation of the country at a recent international event in Ethiopia.
Speaking during a press conference held at the Ministry’s boardroom in Mbabane on Monday, 18 May 2026, the Minister described the moment as another significant milestone in the growth and international recognition of Eswatini’s creative industry.
The event was attended by the Honourable High Commissioner of India and embassy staff, senior government officials under the Ministry, the Chief Executive Officer of the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture, members of the media, and other stakeholders in the arts and culture sector.
Minister Nzima extended sincere appreciation to the Government of India, through the Indian Embassy, for fully sponsoring the cultural exchange programme.
“This important opportunity speaks volumes about the strong bilateral relations that exist between the Kingdom of Eswatini and India,” he said, adding that such collaborations continue to strengthen arts and culture development in the country.
The Minister proudly acknowledged Fine Artist Honest Mhlanga, who is set to travel and represent Eswatini internationally. He further noted that a second artist, Daniel Dlamini, is currently finalising necessary documentation, expressing optimism that all processes will be concluded successfully.
“Opportunities such as these are critical in exposing our creatives to global platforms and showcasing the richness of Eswatini’s artistic talent,” he emphasised.
In the same address, Minister Nzima took time to commend Gogo and Silwane for their remarkable participation at the African Influencers event recently held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He applauded the duo for carrying the country’s identity with dignity and excellence on the international stage.
“Their impact demonstrates that Emaswati talent is capable of competing and excelling globally. As a Ministry, we are proud of how they represented our national identity and culture,” he said.
Reaffirming government’s commitment to the creative sector, the Minister highlighted that the Ministry remains ready to support artists and creatives representing Eswatini at recognised international invitations, festivals, competitions, and platforms.
He also encouraged all artists travelling abroad to formally engage the Ministry before departure to receive the national flag.
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