AGP Executive Report

Food Security Alert: An IPC analysis projects about 22,125 Emaswati sliding into emergency hunger (Phase 4) during the lean season (Oct 2026–Mar 2027), with 286,346 people (23%) facing crisis or emergency levels, mainly in the Lowveld cattle and maize zone. Court & Governance: A Judicial Commission recommends a lifestyle audit for employees in the Master’s Office after findings of administrative weaknesses and isolated corruption concerns. Health & Safety: A suspected poisoning of emahewu in Siphocosini killed a three-year-old and left the mother and an eight-year-old hospitalised. Investment & Industry: Prime Minister Russell Dlamini is courting Taiwan for packaging manufacturing and pushing energy investors after tours of renewable projects in Tainan. Sports & Business: Nsingizini Hotspurs unveil a sponsorship partnership with Sibebe Premium Lager ahead of the CAF Champions League, while the King’s Cup returns with a E1m prize purse. Education: UNESWA law students say results for a module were withheld over alleged part-time lecturer payment delays.

Taiwan Investment Push: Prime Minister Russell Dlamini met Acer founder Stan Shih in Taipei, pitching Eswatini as a gateway for high-value tech and possible manufacturing/assembly at the Phocweni Industrial Innovation Park. Energy Drive: In Tainan, Dlamini urged Taiwanese energy firms to invest in renewables, targeting projects of at least 100MW and adding over 1,000MW to boost reliable baseload power. Digital Skills Boost: The Macetjeni iHub was launched to expand digital training and support for youth and MSMEs, with UNDP and ESCCOM backing high-speed internet, co-working and business development. Education Dispute: UNESWA Diploma in Law students say results for Introduction to Tax Law 2 were withheld over alleged unpaid part-time lecturer fees, leaving them anxious about passes and supplementary exams. Public Service Reform: Government introduced EIMPA’s new principal, tasking her to turn the institute into a fully accredited National School of Governance. Culture & Sports: Naledi Aphiwe headlines Ladies Thursday Night at Mdzimba View on Aug 27, while Nsingizini Hotspurs and Scottland FC learned their CAF Champions League preliminary opponents after the Cairo draw.

UNESWA Student Dispute: University of Eswatini (UNESWA) Diploma in Law students say results for Introduction to Tax Law 2 were withheld because a part-time lecturer allegedly hasn’t received full July payment, leaving learners anxious about whether they passed or face supplementary exams. Teacher Housing Woes: The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) says teachers in Shiselweni are dealing with damp, unsafe quarters and cramped setups, after Government site visits by the Government Negotiating Team. SADC Leadership: Ambassador Tebogo Seokolo opened the Senior Officials Meeting ahead of the 46th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit in Durban, with regional leaders set to discuss industrialisation, infrastructure, food security and integration. CAF Football Draw: Nsingizini Hotspurs will face Zimbabwe champions Scottland FC in the CAF Champions League preliminary round, with first legs in early September and returns the following week. Economic Outlook: The IMF projects slower growth for Eswatini in 2026 due to higher fuel costs, weaker demand, tighter financing, weather disruptions and cooling investment. Digital Skills Boost: A new Macetjeni Innovation Hub (iHub) was launched to expand digital skills and support youth and MSMEs in Lubombo. Human Rights Alert: Rights groups warn that US “third-country removals” can trap recognised refugees in dangerous transfers, with Eswatini named among affected countries.

Public Service Reform: EIMPA has a new principal, Gcinaphi Dlamini, tasked with transforming the institute into a fully accredited National School of Governance to deliver faster, ethical, citizen-centred public service. Regional Democracy: A SADC Electoral Observation Mission was launched ahead of Zambia’s 13 August general elections, with Eswatini among the participating member states. Sports—CAF Draw: Nsingizini Hotspurs will face Zimbabwe’s Scottland FC in the CAF Champions League preliminary round, while Green Mamba’s CAF Confederation Cup campaign begins against Angola’s CD 1º de Agosto. Business & Tax: Business Eswatini warned that poorly sequenced Finance Bills could raise compliance costs and hit SMEs’ cash flow. Health Systems: The US reaffirmed support for ECSA health system resilience, as Eswatini and regional partners push for long-term preparedness. Energy & Jobs: Government launched the E200m Nsoko Solar Power Plant, targeting 80 construction jobs and 10 permanent roles. Cybersecurity: INTERPOL data puts Eswatini among Africa’s lowest cyber vulnerability shares at 0.2%, though police say the risk still matters. Trade & Investment: Prime Minister Russell Dlamini met Taiwan’s stock exchange leaders to deepen capital markets ties, while Taiwan pledged more investment for Eswatini’s industrial transformation. Local Culture & Music: Zola 7 returns with a new single after health setbacks, and MCO Jamrock announces an EP listening session in Mbabane.

Sports & Community Pride: Eswatini’s martial arts team was praised after winning seven medals (1 gold, 1 silver, 5 bronze) at a recent regional event, with Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume’s Cup challenge set for 15–16 August. Endurance Spotlight: Andreas Simelane became the first Liswati to finish the Washie 100 Miler in South Africa, completing the 161km race in a demanding 26-hour limit. Competition Commission Clash: SwaziPharm Wholesalers and Kareem Ashraff scored a second legal win after the Competition Commission board dismissed an attempt to overturn its earlier merger-notification ruling. IP & Media Compliance: Copyright experts warned entrepreneurs and media houses that ideas aren’t protected—only the expression—urging licences for copyrighted music and clearer IP protection before pitching. Health & Safety: Communities say “trust us to lead” if the world is to hit the 2030 AIDS and TB targets; locally, Green Mamba received relief after striker Sikhali was discharged from hospital. Justice & Fraud: A Mbabane lawyer faces a fraud case after E1.5m allegedly went missing from a deceased estate. Infrastructure Costs: Resettlement for the Mpakeni Dam has already exceeded budget, topping E140m as the project hits 54% completion. Football on the Continent: Nsingizini Hotspurs Ladies face Mamelodi Sundowns in the CAF Women’s Champions League/COSAFA qualifiers draw in Gaborone. Banking Upgrade: SBS Bank Eswatini launched its Intellect eMACH.ai Treasury platform as it continues its commercial banking transition.

CAF Women’s Champions League/COSAFA Qualifier: Nsingizini Hotspurs (Eswatini) face a tough Group B debut against Mamelodi Sundowns, Costa do Sol and Silver Strikers in Gaborone (Aug 20–29), while Silver Strikers and Gaborone United’s groups were also set after the draw. Local Football: Mpaka stunned Manzini Central to win the Eswatini Children’s Cup final on penalties at Somhlolo National Stadium, after a dramatic comeback. Copyright Crackdown: Media houses and broadcasters were warned to secure explicit music licences as Eswatini tightens copyright enforcement, with ESCASO urging fair pay for creators. HIV Update: UNAIDS says new HIV infections and AIDS deaths are at their lowest levels in more than 30 years, highlighting progress toward treatment targets and new prevention options. Health & Safety: Eswatini was listed among malaria-risk destinations in updated UK travel guidance. Economy Watch: Government says Eswatini’s public debt remains manageable (around a 45% debt-to-GDP ratio). Sports Talent Abroad: Midfielder Junior Magagula ended his DR Congo league stint, signing with Union Maniema amid Ebola-related concerns.

Debt Watch: Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg says Eswatini’s public debt remains manageable, with the debt-to-GDP ratio around 45%, arguing this keeps borrowing costs low and investor confidence intact. Fuel Costs: South Africa’s diesel hike is expected to raise business costs in Eswatini, with economists warning transport and logistics expenses will feed into prices later this year. Taiwan Ties: PM Russell Dlamini and Taiwan President Lai Ching-te reaffirmed cooperation across trade, investment, tech, healthcare, education, agriculture and renewable energy, while King Mswati said democracy and peace can’t be exported. Agribusiness Growth: Elangeni Food Group’s near-complete macadamia processing plant in Matsapha is set to boost exports and value addition from early September. Sports: Nsingizini Hotspurs face a tough CAF/COSAFA Women’s qualifier draw, including two-time champions Mamelodi Sundowns, while Nsingizini’s debut group stage runs Aug 20–29 in Gaborone. Justice & Detention: A Manzini magistrate said it can’t decide the release of 25 Chinese nationals yet because the High Court order and appeal were not properly before the court. Human Trafficking Alert: Talitha Kum warns online scams are driving modern trafficking, urging stronger protection and tougher responses.

Anti-Trafficking Watch: Talitha Kum says human trafficking is evolving fast, with online scams and false job promises driving victims into cyber-enabled exploitation, as the network warns of rising risks amid conflict, displacement and inequality. Maseru Politics: Maseru City Council removed Mayor Relebohile Sechache after a no-confidence motion, paving the way for new leadership at the capital authority. Women’s Football: Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs face a brutal debut in the CAF Women’s Champions League/COSAFA qualifiers after being drawn in Group B with Mamelodi Sundowns, Costa do Sol and Silver Strikers. Local Development: SAPEMP has moved into implementation, targeting about 19,600 smallholder households with E851m to boost production, market access and climate resilience. Jobs & Industry: Jeroma Manufacturing in Matsanjeni has created 310 jobs, with plans to add 90 more, exporting clothing to South Africa. SME Support: FNB Eswatini backs government efforts to strengthen SMEs, pushing procurement and tailored support for entrepreneurs. Accessibility Push: A Disability Trolley Dash at Pick n Pay highlighted barriers faced by shoppers with disabilities, calling for better communication and store access.

Pan-African Politics & Migration: A high-level Pan-African roundtable in Lagos on Aug 6 will revisit South Africa’s changing ties with the continent, with speakers from countries including Eswatini expected to weigh in on regional cooperation and the safety of citizens amid migration pressures. Digital Finance Upgrade: Swaziland Building Society has gone live with Intellect eMACH.ai Treasury as it moves toward full commercial banking, shifting from manual liquidity tracking to automated FX and money-market workflows. Media Regulation: Eswatini is set to tighten rules for online media, aiming to level the playing field between digital publishers and mainstream outlets that already face licensing costs. Sports—Charity Cup Shake-up: Moneni Pirates and Mbabane Highlanders have surged into the top three in the PLE Charity Cup voting race, challenging the early lead by Viva Stumbo XI. Football—CAF Draw Ahead: Eswatini’s Green Mamba (Confederation Cup) and Nsingizini (Champions League) will learn their CAF preliminary opponents after the Aug 6 draw in Cairo. Diplomacy (Taiwan): Prime Minister Russell Dlamini has reaffirmed Eswatini–Taiwan partnership ahead of the Ketagalan Forum, focusing on trade, investment, technology and skills. Community & Infrastructure: The Nkosinathi Suspension Footbridge project is launched to end dangerous crocodile crossings, while a E450,000 WASH handover at Manyovu High School improves clean water access. Human Stories: A long-distance bus driver died while transporting deported Malawians from South Africa, highlighting the risks tied to regional deportation flows.

PM-Taiwan Diplomacy: Prime Minister Russell Dlamini has reaffirmed Eswatini’s partnership with Taiwan as he heads to the Ketagalan Forum in Taipei, signalling continued cooperation on peace, development and security. Public Safety & Justice: Royal Eswatini Police say they “fear no one” in the online gambling probe, stressing that no rank or political influence will stop arrests. Community Infrastructure: A new Nkosinathi Suspension Footbridge is set to end dangerous crocodile river crossings for schools and clinics, while Manyovu High School received an E450,000 WASH handover for reliable clean water. Governance & Land: King Mswati III intervened to stop eviction threats at Ncangosini by directing government to buy the farm and convert it to Swazi Nation Land. Economy & Food Security: Agriculture Minister Mandla Tshawuka urged more agro-processing investment to cut the E2.2bn spent annually on imported processed foods. Finance Habits: CBE Governor Phil Mnisi warned people to avoid large cash withdrawals and use safer electronic payments for traceable transactions. Sports & CAF: CAF draw preparations are underway for Eswatini’s Green Mamba and Nsingizini ahead of continental qualifiers. Culture & Music: Luju Festival continues to spotlight Eswatini’s creative economy, with Zola 7 calling for deeper investment in local artists.

PIC Turmoil & Governance: South Africa’s Ramaphosa says the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) is not in “crisis” despite leadership questions and resignations, stressing the need to safeguard workers’ retirement assets and push through Mpati Commission reforms. Financial Habits: Central Bank of Eswatini Governor Phil Mnisi warns people to avoid large cash withdrawals and use secure, traceable electronic payments instead. Royal Intervention: King Mswati III orders government to buy the Ncangosini farm in Kontshingila and convert it to Swazi Nation Land to stop residents being evicted. Tax Focus on Wealth: Eswatini Revenue Service moves to build a high-net-worth individual taxation framework, using African Tax Administration Forum support to improve identification, compliance and risk management. Sports & Football: Eswatini’s EFA races against FIFA Forward 2023-2026 deadlines as projects like the Nkonga Technical Centre face approval delays. Police & Gambling: Police Commissioner Vusi Masango says the online gambling probe will not spare anyone, regardless of rank or political influence. HIV Update: UNAIDS reports 1.2 million new HIV infections globally in 2025, with funding cuts raising resurgence fears. Culture & Events: Luju Festival continues to boost Eswatini’s local art economy, while PM Dlamini urges emaSwati to turn out for national cultural events.

Luju Festival Fashion: Eswatini’s Kwasukasukela theme lit up the Luju Festival runway, with designers from Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique and South Africa turning “Once Upon a Time” into bold, heritage-led storytelling through cloth, beadwork and modern silhouettes—festivalgoers were left craving more. Sports—Volleyball: St George’s College won ISSA U19 Boys volleyball gold in South Africa, beating Northwood 3-2 in a tense final, after strong pool and knockout runs. Sports—Football: Hardrock FC kept their title push alive with a 3-0 win over Manica Diamonds, powered by an Eswatini trio including Thubelihle Mavuso and Neliswa “Tiger” Dlamini’s setup. Culture & Food: Chef Sive Bhembe wowed crowds at Luju by elevating indigenous Nguni ingredients into fine-dining desserts, while Thobile Makhoyane shared the cultural story behind traditional umcombotsi brewing. Governance & Media: Eswatini’s plans for new TV stations face a major hurdle as a high E150,000 licence fee and costly annual contributions are said to be deterring applicants. Regional Security: King Mswati III says Eswatini’s SARPCCO chairmanship puts the country at the centre of efforts to tackle transnational crime across Southern Africa. Economy—Horticulture: Eswatini is set to boost vegetable value addition after appointing a new World Vegetable Center representative to strengthen research and post-harvest handling.

Commonwealth Games (Eswatini link): Eswatini’s Lamulela Magagula faced India’s Unnati Sharma in the women’s -63kg judo Round of 16, where Sharma dominated and later went on to win bronze after bouncing back from a semifinal loss. Sports (local football): Hardrock FC kept their push at the top of the Castle Lager PSL, beating Manica Diamonds 3-0 with Eswatini international Thubelihle Mavuso scoring, while Washington Navaya netted twice. Media & regulation: A steep E150,000 TV licence fee plus a 1.5% turnover Universal Access Fund levy is being blamed for blocking emaSwati from setting up local television. Parliament & allowances: MPs’ “handshake” ex gratia payouts are set to rise sharply, with each MP now entitled to about E996,000. Jobs & investment: EIPA says five projects have moved into implementation, totaling E7.4bn and about 4,850 jobs. Food security: Government and partners launched a Food-for-Work rice programme worth E42.789m for 6,600 households (about 33,000 people). Public safety: King Mswati III announced an upcoming police recruitment drive to strengthen the force.

Commonwealth Games Judo: Eswatini’s Lamulela Magagula was knocked out early after losing to India’s Unnati Sharma in the women’s -63kg Round of 16, but Sharma later bounced back from a semifinal loss to win bronze, beating South Africa’s Skye Knoester by ippon. Police & Security: King Mswati III announced a new police recruitment drive to strengthen the Royal Eswatini Police Service as the population grows, while also promoting senior officers during Police Day. Creative Economy Boost: Government unveiled an E3.86m mobile stage unit via ENCAC to cut event production costs and help creatives and small businesses scale up. Health Meeting: Eswatini will host 300+ regional health experts from Aug 5–7 for the Best Practices Forum and Directors’ Joint Consultative Meeting in Manzini. Food Security Support: A E42.789m Food-for-Work programme will target 6,600 households (about 33,000 beneficiaries) across 15 Tinkhundla centres, backed by Taiwan and World Vision. Trade & Compliance Watch: Online reselling is drawing scrutiny over whether imported goods sold on social media are properly declared to customs. US Travel Change: The US Embassy in Mbabane will stop routine visa processing, directing applicants to book appointments at the US Consulate General in Johannesburg. Football: Hardrock FC closed in on Scottland FC in the Castle Lager PSL after beating Manica Diamonds 3-0, with Eswatini international Thubelihle Mavuso scoring.

Commonwealth Games (Glasgow): Day 10 is set to be medal-heavy for India, with a packed Saturday schedule featuring athletics finals, para athletics medal events, and boxing gold medal bouts—while Eswatini’s Lamulela Magagula is listed in judo action and Unnati Sharma faces elimination-round play. Royal Eswatini Police Service: King Mswati III announced a REPS recruitment drive to strengthen staffing, and promoted senior officers during Police Day; Tshidi Mdluli also made history as only the second woman to interpret for the King at a major national event. Governance & accountability: Mayiwane MP Sicelo “Khungankhosi” Dlamini accused the sports minister of diverting E5 million meant for Ntfonjeni Sports Centre to Sandleni, calling for clarity in Parliament. Travel & services: The US Embassy in Mbabane will stop routine visa processing, shifting appointments to the US Consulate General in Johannesburg; Eswatini also issued 77 machine-readable passports to recognised refugees for international travel. Health & development: UNAIDS warned HIV prevention funding fell 23% in 2025, risking a resurgence, even as Eswatini is noted for major reductions in new infections since 2010. Local economy & culture: The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival returns as a two-day event, and the Ingelo Incubation facility opened to help MSMEs meet standards and access formal retail markets.

HIV Funding Crisis: UNAIDS warns that a 23% drop in global HIV prevention funding in 2025 could trigger a resurgence, even as countries including Eswatini report major gains since 2010. Refugee Protection: Eswatini issued 77 machine-readable refugee travel documents in the first quarter, letting recognised refugees travel for business, study and leisure under the Refugees Act. Health Accountability: Former Luke Commission (TLC) staff petition Parliament alleging expired drugs were distributed to patients and asking for investigations into health inspections and possible misuse of funds. Anti-Trafficking Push: PM Russell Mmiso Dlamini urges stronger vigilance as traffickers increasingly use AI, social media and fake job offers to trap victims. Local Business Support: Government opened the first Ingelo Incubation production facility to help MSMEs, including an achaar producer, meet standards and access formal retail markets. Agriculture Trade Hope: EU welcomed Eswatini’s progress in containing FMD, raising hopes for the return of beef exports to the EU and Norway. Sports & Culture: Eswatini Chess Open returns in September with an E35k+ prize pool; Luju Festival runs this weekend in Durban. Motoring Recall: Toyota South Africa recalls Urban Cruisers over a faulty fuel gauge; the recall also affects vehicles exported to Eswatini.