Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu in MANZINI, eSwatini
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa arrived here last night ahead of today’s landmark double celebration marking King Mswati III’s 40 years on the throne and 58th birthday.
The President was welcomed at King Mswati III International Airport by Zimbabwe Ambassador to eSwatini Victor Matemadanda and eSwatini Prime Minister Mr Russell Dlamini.
The commemorations, slated for Somhlolo National Stadium, are set to further strengthen ties between Harare and Mbabane.
President Mnangagwa is accompanied by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr Martin Rushwaya and Deputy Chief Secretary (Presidential Communications) Mr George Charamba.
Speaking after the President’s arrival yesterday, Ambassador Matemadanda spoke highly of the two countries’ relations.
“This is a very big celebration for Eswatini. A number of countries, including Botswana and South Africa, will be represented at various levels, which shows the importance of the occasion,” he said.
“Then the second is the 58th birthday of the King, he was coronated when he was 18 years old. This year they are celebrating his 58th birthday. So again, it is a celebration that is taken highly here. So that is what is bringing our President here.”
President Mnangagwa’s visit is also expected to reinforce bilateral cooperation between Zimbabwe and Eswatini, with renewed momentum towards reviving the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) — a key institutional framework for structured engagement.
Amb Matemadanda said both countries are working on modalities to resuscitate the JPC, which facilitates collaboration in areas such as trade, investment and public service.
“The JPC is set to restart very soon. We are currently working on the modalities, including determining which country will host the next session,” he said. “Zimbabwe is ready to host, although the last meeting was supposed to be held here in Eswatini. Essentially, we are starting afresh, and both principals — President Mnangagwa and His Majesty the King — are keen to see the process resume.”
The two countries have maintained steady cooperation in trade and investment, with recent efforts aimed at enhancing economic linkages.
In 2025, Zimbabwe and Eswatini signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), a move expected to improve connectivity and boost both passenger and cargo transport, including through airlines such as Eswatini Airways.
There are also growing opportunities for trade in sectors such as leather goods, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and essential oils.
President Mnangagwa visited Eswatini last year for the country’s 57th Independence Day celebrations and officially opened the Eswatini International Trade Fair as guest of honour.
Mr. President, how can you justify using state resources to attend a 40-year celebration of rule in Swaziland? This only reinforces the perception that you are determined to amend Zimbabwe’s Constitution in order to remain in power indefinitely. You should be ashamed and show respect for our Constitution.