His Majesty has credited peace, dialogue and national unity as key pillars that have sustained Eswatini over the past 40 years.
The King said emaSwati had consistently chosen consultation and reconciliation in addressing national challenges.
“Maswati, we are truly grateful that you have consistently granted me peace and dialogue, resolving challenges in the true spirit of consultation and reconciliation. That has been our greatest source of strength,” he said.
He noted that the country’s stability had enabled progress across multiple sectors and strengthened its social fabric.
His Majesty also commended the country’s security institutions, including the police, defence force, correctional services and fire services, for their role in maintaining safety and stability.
“True development thrives only in a safe and secure environment. We commend… their dedication in this regard,” he said.
He said the security sector had undergone professional transformation and had strengthened its relationship with the public.
His Majesty King Mswati III further highlighted increased gender inclusivity within the sector, noting that it had contributed to a more representative workforce.
Reflecting on challenges faced over the years, His Majesty King Mswati III acknowledged periods of hardship, including drought, the COVID-19 pandemic and internal unrest.
“Forty years have not been a straight road… we also faced internal strains that tested our cherished spirit of consultation and reconciliation,” he said.
Despite these challenges, he said emaSwati had demonstrated resilience and unity.
“Through every trial, emaSwati did not break. We overcame,” he said.
On the international stage, His Majesty King Mswati III said Eswatini had maintained a foreign policy centred on peace and cooperation.
“Our foreign policy is simple, ‘Asinasitsa – we have no enemies’, and we wish to see it prevail among the entire UN family,” he said.
He also urged global leaders to prioritise peace in addressing international conflicts.
“We urge our leaders in the global community to put peace ahead of all other interests,” he said.
His Majesty King Mswati III reiterated that unity remained essential for the country’s future development and stability.
“As we mark this Ruby Jubilee… let it not only be a celebration of years passed, but a renewed pledge to the future that we shall build together, guided by unity, strengthened by tradition, and inspired by hope,” he said.
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