Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu in MBABANE, Eswatini
President Mnangagwa has called for stronger bilateral ties between Zimbabwe and Eswatini to boost socio-economic development, urging both nations to collaborate for the benefit of future generations.
Speaking at a State banquet held in his honour here last night, President Mnangagwa said: “Partnerships in agriculture, tourism, trade, education, science, innovation and technology development, as well as in agriculture, should receive our focused attention.
“Our peoples are called upon to take full advantage of the Eswatini Airlines direct flight to Harare, which creates scope for increased business, tourism, as well as people-to-people exchanges.
“We are masters of our own destiny. We should never be apologetic of who we are, what created us, and what has created others.
“And we should always stand tall and be proud of our heritage, our culture, and the vision for a better future for generations to come.”
Speaking at the same event, King Mswati commended the various policies being implemented by Government such as the Zimbabwe is open for business mantra and Vision 2030, which he said have accelerated development in Zimbabwe.
He said Eswatini will take a leaf from Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, President Mnangagwa is today expected to officially open the Eswatini International Trade Fair, which coincides with the country’ 57th National Day celebrations.
The President, who is on a State visit to Eswatini, is expected to tour stands at the trade fair here before the official opening.
The Eswatini International trade fair is running under the theme, “Digital Transformation 2.0: Creating Business Networks”.
In an interview yesterday, Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Eswatini, Victor Matemadanda, said President Mnangagwa was also set to officiate at the Umhlanga Reed Dance Ceremony.
“The President will officially open the Eswatini International Trade Fair and also officiate at the Umhlanga Reed Dance, which runs from September 7 to 8,” Ambassador Matemadanda said.
“In diplomatic circles, we last held these bi-national joint commissions in 1996. So we are looking forward to the resuscitation of those.
“We think there might be signing of agreements that might not have been signed, so we look forward to that development.”
President Mnangagwa arrived here last night and was received at the King Mswati 111 International Airport by Eswatini Prime Minister, Russell Dlamini.
The Eswatini International Trade Fair and Umhlanga Reed Dance are part of the national day celebrations.
Eswatini National Day, also known as Somhlolo Day, is celebrated on September 6 to commemorate the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1968.
Named after King Sobhuza I, known as “Somhlolo” (The Wonder), the day features traditional dances, songs and community festivities showcasing Swazi cultural heritage.
King Mswati III, the Queen Mother (Indlovukazi) and members of the royal family preside over the celebrations.
Eswatini is one of the world’s last remaining absolute monarchies, where the King plays a central role in both politics and culture. The National Day is one of the occasions where this is most visible.
President Mnangagwa is accompanied by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr Martin Rushwaya, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Investment Promotion, Professor Amon Murwira, Minister of Industry and Commerce, Mangaliso Ndhlovu among other senior officials.
