Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu in MANZINI, Eswatini
DEVELOPMENT is a continuous process with no endpoint and African countries must sustain momentum in infrastructural transformation to facilitate accelerated economic growth, President Mnangagwa has said
Speaking after attending the landmark double celebration marking King Mswati III’s 40 years on the throne and 58th birthday at Somhlolo National Stadium yesterday, President Mnangagwa said no country can afford to slow down its development agenda.
The commemorations, which drew thousands of people and several regional leaders, marked a significant milestone in Eswatini’s history, celebrating four decades of King Mswati III’s rule and his contribution to national development and stability.
Apart from President Mnangagwa, other Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government who attended the celebrations included Botswana President Duma Boko, Mozambique President Daniel Chapo and Lesotho King Litsie III.
Also in attendance were former Statesmen and country representatives from across the globe.
“Every country, big or small; there is no end to development. Development is continuous,” said President Mnangagwa.
“You cannot have a country which says it has developed enough; it must now rest. That would be overthrown.
“So, it could be Eswatini, Zimbabwe, whatever country; development is an agenda that never ends. It’s a continuous process.”
President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe’s participation in the celebrations reflected the strong diplomatic and historical ties between Harare and Mbabane.
“Actually, we feel it’s an honour that we’ve been invited to witness and be part of the celebrations here,” he said.
“It shows the brotherhood and the friendly relations that exist between Zimbabwe and the Kingdom here and we are very happy to be here.”
On infrastructure development, which was also highlighted during the celebrations, President Mnangagwa stressed the importance of maintaining consistent investment in key sectors such as roads and public works to drive economic growth.
He said African countries must continue to prioritise development projects to improve livelihoods and strengthen their economies.
Turning to trade, President Mnangagwa called for increased economic cooperation between Zimbabwe and Eswatini, saying both countries should take advantage of all available opportunities.
“Everything that is tradable, we should trade, including people,” he said, underscoring the need for enhanced movement of goods, services and labour.
The President’s remarks come as Zimbabwe continues to implement infrastructure development programmes, including road rehabilitation and modernisation projects, as part of broader efforts to stimulate economic growth and regional integration.
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’s visit follows his trip to Eswatini last year, where he attended the country’s 57th Independence Day celebrations and officially opened the Eswatini International Trade Fair as the guest of honour.
In 2023, King Mswati III also officially opened the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) as guest of honour, further underscoring the relations between Harare and Mbabane.
Meanwhile, President Mnangagwa returned home yesterday evening. He was welcomed by Vice Presidents Dr Costantino Chiwenga and Dr Kembo Mohadi, service chiefs and other senior Government officials.
