AGP Executive Report

Energy & Investment: Eswatini is pushing regional partnerships to attract investment ahead of its second Investment Conference (July 29–31), with the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority urging early alignment between governments, business and investors. Power Supply: Electricity generation in South Africa fell 9% year-on-year in May, while distribution also dropped in several provinces—an ongoing reminder of how tariff and supply pressures ripple across the region. Renewables Push: The Tsamela solar PV project in Hhohho (20MW) is set to cut reliance on imports, with about 150 jobs during construction and an estimated E400m+ cost. Big Solar Deal: Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo secured a R3bn, 300MW Eswatini solar project with Chinese firm CHiNT Electric, after receiving Eswatini citizenship and a diplomatic passport. Telecom Leadership: MTN Eswatini has confirmed Jerry Soko as CEO from July 1, after his acting stint helped restore momentum. Governance Watch: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini defended the EMCU commission of inquiry in court, citing alleged maladministration and financial irregularities. Youth & Culture: A Thembelisha pupil won a national Siswati letter-writing contest, earning a chance to represent Eswatini internationally.

SACU Reform Push: President Cyril Ramaphosa told the 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town that the bloc must accelerate reforms to strengthen regional cooperation as AfCFTA tariff concessions roll out and leaders plan new export strategies. Energy Investment: Wicknell Chivayo secured a R3 billion, 300MW solar power deal in Eswatini with CHiNT Electric, with the project set to cut reliance on imported electricity. Telecom Leadership: MTN Eswatini confirmed Jerry Soko as substantive CEO from 1 July after his seven-month acting stint, citing improved operational discipline and stronger customer focus. Justice and Mercy: King Mswati III ordered a review of inmates’ sentences under the Prerogative of Mercy Committee as part of 40/58 celebrations. Governance Probe: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini defended the EMCU commission of inquiry, saying it was properly gazetted and tasked with investigating financial and governance failures. Sports Transfers: Hardrock FC signed Zimbabwe striker Prince Dube and also brought in Malawi right-back Mcdonald Rameck, boosting their squad ahead of key fixtures. Culture Funding: Babukisi Foundation and Eswatini Theatre Club won EU support for heritage projects, turning local stories into film, animation and visual art.

MTN Leadership: MTN Eswatini has confirmed Jerry Soko as substantive CEO from 1 July 2026, ending his seven-month acting stint and citing improved operational discipline, stronger customer focus and network competitiveness. Regional Integration: His Majesty King Mswati III returned from the 9th SACU Heads of State summit in Cape Town, where leaders pushed for customs revenue reform, better cross-border infrastructure and a new N$5 billion regional innovative funding mechanism. Governance at EMCU: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini defended the commission of inquiry into Eswatini Medical Christian University, saying it was properly gazetted and tasked to probe financial management, fraud allegations, governance failures and compliance issues. Social Protection & Tech: An AI and regional cooperation forum discussed how Eswatini and neighbours can use emerging tech responsibly in social security, including protecting personal data and keeping services accessible. Sports & Talent: Nsingizini Hotspurs completed permanent signings of Eswatini internationals Innocent Pakule and Mthobisi ‘Mvala’ Zwane, reshaping the Premier League transfer landscape. Community Support: Studycat donated 2,000 sets of children’s language-learning software to Eswatini, with part of the rollout going through the Deputy Prime Minister’s office and schools.

AI & Social Protection: Delegates at the Southern Africa Social Security Stakeholders’ Forum, including Eswatini, discussed using artificial intelligence to improve social protection while protecting personal data and keeping official documents authentic. Telecom Leadership: MTN Eswatini confirmed Jerry Soko as substantive CEO on a two-year contract from 1 July, after seven months as acting CEO, citing network competitiveness and customer focus. Regional Trade & SACU: His Majesty King Mswati III returned from the 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town, where leaders pushed customs revenue reform, cross-border infrastructure and industrialisation, and agreed to set up a new N$5 billion regional innovative funding mechanism. Immigration Tensions in the Region: South Africa’s anti-illegal immigration protests have led to reports of foreign nationals, including Emaswati, being evicted by landlords, while Eswatini’s King urged calm for documented students. Sports: Nsingizini Hotspurs completed the permanent signings of Eswatini duo Innocent Pakule and Mthobisi ‘Mvala’ Zwane, reshaping the Premier League transfer landscape. Church Accountability: A pastor’s arrest over alleged rape and murder of four women has sparked calls for churches to stop shielding accused religious leaders and cooperate with law enforcement.

MTN Leadership: MTN Eswatini has confirmed Jerry Soko as substantive CEO on a two-year contract effective 1 July, after seven months as acting CEO, citing improved network performance, customer focus and disciplined execution. SACU Regional Push: His Majesty King Mswati III returned from the 9th SACU summit in Cape Town, where leaders backed stronger regional trade and industrialisation, including a plan to set up a R5 billion regional innovative funding mechanism. King’s SACU Message: The King challenged SACU to reform and deliver tangible outcomes—industries, investment, markets, modernised borders and jobs—rather than policy promises. Cross-Border Friction: At the Oshoek border post, travellers from Eswatini reported tighter questioning and shorter stays as South Africa’s June 30 anti-undocumented immigration deadline approaches. Education Support: Studycat donated 2,000 sets of educational software to Eswatini, with 500 going via the Deputy Prime Minister’s office and 1,500 through schools. Sports/World Cup: Cape Verde’s historic World Cup run continues to draw attention, with coverage linked to the Chinese-built national stadium. Governance & Rights: A report says an anti-LGBT conference push plans an Eswatini edition in 2027, raising concerns about a wider regional backlash. Local Justice: Eswatini’s finance minister says illegal gambling convictions show the country is strengthening compliance with anti-money laundering standards.

MTN Leadership: MTN Group has confirmed Jerry Soko as CEO of MTN Eswatini, effective 1 July 2026, after seven months as acting CEO, citing momentum, network resilience and stronger customer focus. Royal & Regional Trade: King Mswati III returned from the 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town, where leaders pushed for regional trade, industrialisation and customs revenue reform, and SACU agreed to set up a N$5 billion innovative regional development fund. SACU Funding Push: Heads of SACU members backed the new fund to finance cross-border industrial and infrastructure projects from the Common Revenue Pool in 2027/28 and 2028/29. Cross-Border Tensions: As South Africa’s June 30 immigration deadline nears, Eswatini travellers at Oshoek report tighter questioning and shorter stays, while the King urged calm for documented Emaswati studying in SA. Local Support & Education: Studycat donated 2,000 sets of educational software to Eswatini, with 500 via the Deputy Prime Minister’s office and 1,500 through schools. Health & Crime Compliance: Eswatini’s convictions in illegal gambling cases were framed as strengthening anti-money laundering standing, while local researchers highlighted improved detection of drug-resistant TB strains. Diplomacy Watch: Azerbaijan’s president approved an MoU on public service cooperation with Eswatini’s ICT ministry, and separate coverage flags rising regional political sensitivity around Eswatini’s international ties.

SACU Regional Funding: Heads of State at the 9th SACU Summit agreed to set up a Regional Innovative Funding Mechanism with an initial N$5 billion capital, drawn from the Common Revenue Pool, to back development projects across all SACU member states. Royal Trade Push: His Majesty King Mswati III used the summit to challenge SACU to reform and deliver tangible results—industries, jobs, investment and modernised borders—rather than policy promises. Eswatini Education Boost: Studycat donated 2,000 sets of educational software to Eswatini, with 500 going through the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office and 1,500 to schools under the Ministry of Education and Training. Immigration Pressure at Borders: Ahead of South Africa’s June 30 deadline, travellers entering South Africa via Oshoek from Eswatini reported tighter questioning and shorter stays, while Eswatini-side processing stayed quicker. Energy and Fuel Security: Eswatini’s energy minister hinted fuel prices may drop after Middle East tensions eased, while stressing the need for a strategic oil reserve given current storage for only days. TB Diagnostics: Local researchers reported progress in detecting drug-resistant TB strains missed by routine tests, pointing to better treatment targeting in southern Africa. Domestic Violence Reporting: In Manzini, police said only four men reported domestic violence and one rape case was reported since the start of the year, raising concerns about under-reporting. Gambling Crackdown: Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg said convictions tied to illegal gambling strengthen Eswatini’s anti-money laundering standing. Diplomatic Spotlight on Wicknell Chivayo: Chivayo defended his Cape Town mansion value and a wider social media dispute continued amid claims linked to his Eswatini citizenship and diplomatic passport.

SACU Summit Momentum: Southern African Customs Union leaders wrapped up the 9th summit in Cape Town, backing a push for industrialisation and regional value chains, with Eswatini among the delegations. A key outcome is a R5 billion regional development fund to finance cross-border projects, plus a mandate for the new SACU Executive Secretary, Dumsani Masilela, to drive reforms under a “re-imagined SACU” agenda. King Mswati III and Emaswati in SA: The King praised South Africa’s hospitality to Emaswati and urged students there to stay focused amid tensions around anti-immigration protests. Border Pressure at Oshoek: As South Africa’s June 30 deadline nears, travellers from Eswatini report stricter questioning and shorter stays at Oshoek, disrupting plans and bookings. Energy and Fuel Watch: Eswatini’s energy minister hinted fuel prices could drop after Middle East tensions eased, while the SACU region also discussed energy security. Health Breakthrough: Local researchers say targeted TB testing can detect drug-resistant strains routine tests miss, improving treatment accuracy. Eswatini Governance: Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg says convictions tied to illegal gambling strengthen Eswatini’s anti-money laundering standing. Diplomatic Passport Controversy: King Mswati III’s reported granting of citizenship and a diplomatic passport to Wicknell Chivayo continues to spark scrutiny and debate.

SA border pressure: With South Africa’s June 30 deadline looming, travellers crossing Oshoek from Eswatini report tougher questioning and shorter stays—some getting as little as seven days—while Eswatini-side processing stays quick, pushing people back to the border just to extend stamps. Anti-crime wins: Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg says Eswatini’s convictions tied to illegal gambling strengthen the country’s anti-money laundering standing and show law enforcement is acting fast. SACU push for growth: At the 9th SACU summit in Cape Town, leaders backed a “re-imagined” agenda focused on regional value chains and industrialisation, with Eswatini’s delegation calling for stronger private-sector involvement. Regional diplomacy sparks debate: Taiwan’s tense relationship with Eswatini continues to draw attention after a controversial visit by Taiwan’s president, with China warning Eswatini against “pulling chestnuts out of the fire.” Public health and safety: In Manzini, police say only four men have reported domestic violence and just one rape case since the start of the year, highlighting under-reporting.

SACU Summit Update: Southern African Customs Union leaders wrapped up the 9th Summit in Cape Town, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging member states to strengthen regional integration to survive shifting global trade and technology. Regional Reform Mandate: SACU Executive Secretary Dumsani Masilela was tasked with driving reforms under the “re-imagined SACU Agenda,” including extending the Strategic Plan and pushing industrialisation through regional value chains. Eswatini at SACU: Eswatini’s delegation attended alongside King Mswati III and ministers, as the bloc finalised development plans. Diplomatic Tension: China urged Eswatini to “see clearly” after Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s controversial visit, highlighting the sensitivity around Eswatini’s Taiwan ties. Public Outcry: Eswatini granted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo a diplomatic passport and citizenship after a royal meeting, sparking criticism. Health & Safety: In Manzini, police reported only four domestic violence cases by men and just one rape report since the year began, raising concerns about under-reporting. Water Access Map: A global data map shows safe drinking water remains out of reach for billions, with major gaps between countries.

SACU Summit Focus: Southern African Customs Union leaders wrapped up the 9th Summit in Cape Town, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging member states to strengthen regional integration as no country can prosper alone amid shifting trade, technology and supply chains. Eswatini at SACU: Eswatini’s delegation attended alongside King Mswati III, and SACU Executive Secretary Dumsani Masilela was mandated to drive reforms under the “re-imagined SACU Agenda,” including extending the strategic plan and pushing industrialisation through regional value chains. Fiscal Pressure: Eswatini is projected to be among Africa’s top 10 governments spending more than it collects in 2026, with a projected deficit and rising debt burden flagged by the World Bank. Diplomacy Tension: A Taiwan visit by Eswatini’s president has drawn sharp criticism from China, renewing concerns about sovereignty and the One-China policy. Fuel Relief Hopes: Eswatini’s energy minister hinted fuel prices may drop after easing Middle East tensions, while stressing the need for a strategic oil reserve. Public Backlash: Wicknell Chivayo’s Eswatini diplomatic passport and citizenship sparked outrage, as critics question why the controversial businessman received royal honours. Regional Business: Afreximbank appointed Peter Adeshola Olowononi as Southern Africa Director of Regional Operations, overseeing operations across 13 countries including Eswatini. Local Health Impact: MTN Eswatini invested E2.2m in the 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign, expanding healthcare access and blood donation support in remote communities.

SACU Summit Pushes Industrialisation: Southern African Customs Union leaders wrapped up the 9th Summit in Cape Town, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging member states to strengthen regional integration to withstand global economic shifts, while SACU Executive Secretary Dumsani Masilela said industrialisation and private-sector involvement are central to the bloc’s agenda and reforms. Eswatini’s Energy Relief Hope: Eswatini’s energy minister hinted fuel prices could drop in coming months after easing Middle East tensions, pointing to the need for a strategic oil reserve given the country’s limited storage. Regional Trade and Jobs: Botswana reaffirmed its commitment to regional integration as it takes over SACU chair from July 15, and Afreximbank appointed Peter Adeshola Olowononi as Southern Africa Director of Regional Operations. Local Health Investment: MTN Eswatini invested E2.2 million in the 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign, expanding healthcare access and blood donation support in remote communities. Controversy at Home: Public outrage in Eswatini followed reports that King Mswati III granted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo citizenship and a diplomatic passport after a private visit. Cross-border Safety: South Africa’s deputy transport minister visited Pongola to assess cross-border operations and promote road safety for hazardous goods corridors linking the region.

SACU Summit in focus: President Cyril Ramaphosa opened the 9th Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State Summit in Cape Town, urging member states to deepen regional integration as global trade, technology and supply chains shift. SACU reforms and mandate: Leaders backed the re-imagined SACU Agenda and extended the Strategic Plan to 2028/29, giving new Executive Secretary Dumsani Masilela a mandate to drive reforms. Eswatini governance: Eswatini’s Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs appointed the first board for Ezulwini Palazzo, setting up oversight for the tourism and conference facility. Health and connectivity: MTN Eswatini invested E2.2 million in the 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign, expanding healthcare and blood donation support to remote communities. Youth challenges: Eswatini’s State of the Youth Report 2026 flags high youth unemployment (56%) and rising social problems linked to weakened family support, poverty and limited opportunities. Controversy at the palace: King Mswati granted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo citizenship and a diplomatic passport after a royal visit, drawing public backlash. Sports and regional pride: Cape Verde made World Cup history by reaching the Round of 32 after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia, with Eswatini noted in their qualification journey. Football results: Scottland FC extended their Premier Soccer League dominance with a 3-0 win over Manica Diamonds at Rufaro Stadium.

Regional Integration Watch: South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa urged SACU member states to deepen regional integration as global trade, technology and industrial development shift, pointing to the “Re-imagined SACU Agenda” adopted at the 2023 Eswatini summit. SACU Summit Focus: Eswatini’s President Nandi-Ndaitwah is set to attend the 9th SACU Heads of State Summit in Cape Town, with talks expected to cover the SACU Strategic Plan review, customs modernisation, trade facilitation, investment promotion and AfCFTA opportunities. Cross-Border Transport & Safety: Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa is visiting Pongola and the Golela Border Post to assess cross-border operations between South Africa and Eswatini and push road safety, especially for hazardous goods. Youth & Social Challenges: Eswatini’s State of the Youth Report 2026 warns youth unemployment sits at 56% and links rising youth crime and alcohol abuse to weakened family structures, poverty and limited opportunities. Health Access via Telecoms: MTN Eswatini invested E2.2m in the 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign, expanding healthcare services and blood donation support in remote communities. Governance & Tourism: The first board of directors for Ezulwini Palazzo has been appointed, tasked with overseeing governance and the operator’s performance to boost conferences and business events. Controversy & Royals: Public backlash continues after King Mswati granted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo Eswatini citizenship and a diplomatic passport.

Youth & Crime: The State of the Youth Report 2026 warns that over a third of Eswatini youth are heavy alcohol consumers, linking weakened family structures, poverty and unemployment to rising housebreaking, gang activity, cybercrime and substance abuse. Jobs Pressure: The same report says youth unemployment remains at 56%, hitting especially young people with lower education levels and those in rural areas. US Ties: King Mswati III says Eswatini will stay alongside the United States “through whatever comes next” as the US marks 250 years of independence. Tourism Governance: Tourism Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane has appointed the first board for Ezulwini Palazzo, aiming to strengthen governance and boost conferences, exhibitions and jobs. Regional Trade Talks: Eswatini’s leaders are set to participate in the 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town, with focus on industrialisation, customs modernisation, trade facilitation and AfCFTA opportunities. Energy Deal: Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has been granted Eswatini citizenship and a diplomatic passport, alongside a reported R3 billion pledge for a 300MW solar project. Court Order on LGBT Group: Eswatini’s Supreme Court has ordered the government to officially recognise and register the ESGM LGBT advocacy group, giving it 60 days to comply. Cross-Border Safety: A road safety campaign will see a deputy transport minister visit the Golela Border Post to assess operations and enforce compliance on the SA–Eswatini corridor. Sports Audio Trend: Spotify data shows football podcast listening is rising in Eswatini, up 2% in June versus the January–May average.

SACU Summit Focus: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to attend the 9th Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State Summit in Cape Town on 26 June, where leaders will review progress on the 2022–2027 SACU Strategic Plan and discuss “re-imagined” SACU priorities like industrialisation, customs modernisation, trade facilitation and AfCFTA opportunities. Regional Transport & Safety: South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, will visit the Golela Border Post on 26 June to join road-safety and cross-border compliance efforts with C-BRTA, including crackdowns on unsafe transport and illegal operations. LGBT Court Order: Eswatini’s Supreme Court has ordered the government to officially recognise and register the LGBT advocacy group ESGM, giving authorities 60 days to comply. Energy Investment: King Mswati III hosted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who has been granted Eswatini citizenship and a diplomatic passport, alongside a reported R3 billion commitment toward a 300MW solar project. Local Culture & Media: Umhlanga’s Reed Dance has been ranked among Africa’s most famous festivals, while Eswatini’s media community is also in the spotlight through SADC journalism awards remarks by Barbara Lopi. Business & Innovation: The Eswatini Solutions Marketplace 2026 is set to showcase home-grown agriculture innovations, including products like Nutri Plum made from chicken feather waste.