Zambian President Hichilema Arrives In Eswatini For King Mswati III Anniversary

SIKHUPHE: Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema arrived in Eswatini on Saturday morning to attend celebrations marking King Mswati III's 40 years on the throne and his 58th birthday.

Hichilema is among several regional heads of state and royal representatives travelling to the kingdom for the joint commemoration. In a statement issued on arrival, the President sent goodwill greetings to the King and the people of Eswatini.

The visit follows the official opening on Friday of the International Convention Centre in Ezulwini, which the Eswatini government has said is intended to expand the country's capacity to host international conferences and events.

The opening ceremony was attended by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, former South African President Jacob Zuma, King Letsie III of Lesotho, former Botswana President Ian Khama, and King Misuzulu kaZwelithini of the Zulu Nation. Taiwan's Foreign Minister also attended, reflecting Eswatini's continued diplomatic relations with Taipei. Eswatini is the only country in Africa that maintains formal ties with Taiwan rather than the People's Republic of China.

King Mswati III, who acceded to the throne in 1986 at the age of 18, rules Eswatini as an absolute monarch. His reign has drawn both domestic recognition and external criticism, including from human rights organisations over restrictions on political activity and the handling of pro-democracy protests in 2021.

Celebrations are due to continue at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence, where a cultural event is scheduled for Sunday.