AGP Executive Report

Theatre & Culture: Mbabane is set to become a “24-hour living city” as the October International Theatre Festival returns, running Oct 1–3, with the launch held at the Eswatini Theatre Club. Sports & Community: Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final fever is building, with Highlanders facing MWOS and Bosso chasing a centenary silverware moment. Education & Energy Skills: Three Eswatini students have been awarded SOCAR scholarships to study in Azerbaijan—petroleum engineering (Brilliance and Junior Dlamini) and chemical engineering focused on oil and gas (Temabhele Shabangu). Disability Inclusion: Eswatini is urged to move from plans to budgets under the Costed National Disability Action Plan (2024–2028), with communications officers tasked to drive implementation. Public Works Oversight: PM Russell Dlamini and senators toured the E52m Matsapha Waste Management Plant and the oxygen facility. Judiciary: Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala has died after treatment in South Africa. Governance & Tax: The Revenue Appeals Tribunal swore in new members, pledging independence, credibility and efficiency as tax appeals rise. Road to Regional Peace: Eswatini reaffirmed its commitment to peace and security after assuming SADC Organ chairship on politics, defence and security.

Scholarships & Energy Skills: Three Emaswati students have been selected for SOCAR-funded studies in Azerbaijan after King Mswati III’s May visit to Baku—two for bachelor’s degrees in petroleum engineering and one for a master’s in chemical engineering (oil and gas technology), with Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini urging them to stay focused and represent Eswatini responsibly abroad. Immigration & Deportations: A US deportee, Ayana, has been sent to Cameroon under “third-country” arrangements, joining a growing list that includes Eswatini, as families and legal protections are left behind and people face uncertainty. Public Health Lawmaking: Stakeholders are pushing for tougher penalties in Eswatini’s proposed Tobacco Control Bill, including harsher jail terms and fines, stricter packaging rules, and wider smoke-free zones. Digital Government Finance: EPTC is seeking a US$26m (E455m) World Bank loan for the Digital Eswatini Project, with government set to guarantee repayment. Tax Disputes: The Revenue Appeals Tribunal says it will strengthen independence, credibility and efficiency as tax appeals rise. Transport & Culture: Plans are in motion for 50 buses to move maidens for the Shiselweni Reed Dance, alongside trucks for luggage and water support. Consumer Safety: Isuzu has recalled D-Max bakkies across several countries, including Eswatini, over a potential brake pedal fault. Sports & Community: Eswatini’s Under-20s open COSAFA qualifying against Angola in Mozambique, while the Eswatini Comedy Festival returns for its third edition on September 25.

Justice & Accountability: Former police minister Nathi Nhleko told the Khampepe Commission that SAPS’s refusal to pay legal costs stalled the TRC prosecution of former Crime Intelligence members over the 1983 abduction, murder and disappearance of ANC courier Nokuthula Simelane. Culture & Community: A fleet of 50 prepaid buses, plus trucks and water tankers, has been lined up to transport thousands of maidens for the Shiselweni Reed Dance. Sports (CAF): Green Mamba face Angola’s Primeiro de Agosto in the CAF Confederation Cup second leg after a 2-0 first-leg loss, but will be without three key players as they chase a three-goal turnaround in Luanda. Economy & Finance: Central Bank of Eswatini reports gross official reserves rose to E10.4bn in August and private sector credit continued growing. Governance & Business: MPs move to amend the Central Bank of Eswatini Order to allow Auditor General audits, while retailers and wholesalers back the ERS e-invoicing pilot. Consumer Safety: Isuzu D-Max RG19 bakkies are recalled over a possible loose brake pedal pivot pin, with free inspections and repairs urged. Human Rights & Civic Space: The EU reiterated support for human rights and civic space initiatives as Eswatini marks 50 years of partnership.

SADC Chairmanship Prep: Foreign Affairs Minister Pholile Shakantu met SADC Secretariat officials as Eswatini begins a government-wide induction for its Chair role in the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, running Sept 8–10. Tourism & Culture: Ocean Summer Vibes has been postponed to Oct 24 due to persistent rain, while Eswatini also marks 58 years of independence with messages of support from SADC and UK King Charles III. Economy & Finance: The Central Bank of Eswatini says gross official reserves rose to E10.4bn in August and private sector credit continues to grow; MPs also move to push for an Auditor General audit of the CBE. Energy & Consumer Safety: Draft regulations aim to crack down on substandard electrical goods and improve energy efficiency, and Isuzu D-Max RG19 bakkies are recalled over a possible loose brake pedal pivot pin. Rights & Inclusion: Workshops highlight women’s and widows’ protections, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems are valued at over E50m annually. Sports & Youth: Eswatini Chess Federation will debut at the FIDE Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities in Uzbekistan, and MTN launches the PachiPanda Challenge for youth green innovation.

Vehicle Safety: The National Consumer Commission says Isuzu has recalled over 2,500 Isuzu D-Max 2026 bakkies in Eswatini due to a possible loose brake pedal pivot pin that could reduce braking performance, with owners urged to visit authorised dealers for free inspection and replacement. Migration Management: South Africa’s Inter-Ministerial Committee reports progress on President Ramaphosa’s five-point migration plan, while condemning sporadic violence at Che Guevara in KwaZulu-Natal and stressing immigration enforcement remains government’s responsibility. Adaptive Sports: Eswatini is set to make history at the FIDE Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities in Samarkand, sending a five-member team from September 9–18. Youth Innovation: MTN Eswatini launches the 2026/27 PachiPanda Challenge for 18–35-year-olds, inviting sustainable green-economy solutions. Business & Finance: The Eswatini Stock Exchange opens a new SME capital window, letting SMEs raise E50,000 to E5 million by offering just 5% of shares to the public. Trade & Growth: Government backs plans to turn the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre into a year-round commercial hub. Independence Diplomacy: SADC and UK King Charles III congratulate Eswatini on its 58th Independence Day. Sports: Nsingizini Hotspurs coach Mandla Qhogi warns Scottland ahead of the CAF Champions League return leg, while Moneni Pirates end an 11-year trophy drought by winning the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup on penalties.

Independence Celebrations: King Charles III has congratulated King Mswati III and the people of Eswatini on the country’s 58th Independence Day, praising the UK–Eswatini partnership and highlighting Eswatini’s environmental efforts. Sports & Community: Moneni Pirates ended an 11-year trophy wait by beating Mbabane Highlanders 4-2 on penalties to win the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup, while Nsingizini Hotspurs’ CAF Champions League hopes remain alive after a 1-0 first-leg loss to Scottland FC. Public Safety: Parents are being warned to watch for discreet vaping devices being smuggled into schools, as authorities urge vigilance ahead of school reopening. Governance & Justice: The Eswatini Medical Christian University council alleges committee chair Mbuso Simelane tried to divert E10 million in public funds, with the matter headed to the High Court. Regional Development: Africa’s economic momentum is being linked to rising savings, electronic payments and cross-border transactions, with Standard Bank reporting stronger formal activity across the continent. Health Support: Taiwan’s Medical Mission provided free care to 377 people in Mhlangatane, including screenings, medication, and mobility aid. Trade & Culture: Eswatini’s International Theatre Festival (OITF) is set to revive the arts scene from October 1–3, with productions, murals, school events and workshops.

Independence & Environment: King Charles III praised Eswatini’s efforts to tackle environmental challenges and protect the kingdom’s natural heritage in his Independence Day message to King Mswati III, also reaffirming UK ties through the Commonwealth. Theatre & Culture: Eswatini’s International Theatre Festival (OITF) is set for October 1–3, aiming to revive the local stage with 15+ productions, workshops and a street festival across multiple venues. Football (CAF Champions League): Nsingizini Hotspurs coach Mandla Qhogi said his side remains hopeful after a 1-0 first-leg loss to Scottland FC in Harare, despite an early red card; Scottland coach Norman Mapeza warned the job is “only half done.” Local Sports Spotlight: Cancer survivor Thando Dlamini won taekwondo bronze at the Whiston Taekwondo Open in Manchester ahead of Eswatini’s National Championships. Economy (Credit): Private sector credit rose to E23.8bn in July, but business lending dipped while household borrowing continued to grow. Governance & Trade: Mbabane City Council won best exhibitor at the Eswatini International Trade Fair as government backed plans to turn Mavuso into a permanent trade and investment hub. Regional Politics: SADC’s security organ is set to consider Zambia’s post-election crisis after receiving a preliminary report.

Independence Day Diplomacy: Turkmenistan and the UAE sent congratulations to King Mswati III on Eswatini’s Independence Day, while Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev also wrote that “favorable conditions” are strengthening Azerbaijan–Eswatini ties after King Mswati’s WUF13 visit. EdTech Push: Injini opened applications for an eight-month AI EdTech venture builder across nine Southern African countries, selecting 12 teams to build classroom-informed AI products. CAF Champions League — Eswatini in focus: Nsingizini Hotspurs face Scottland FC in the preliminary round after Scottland won 1-0 in the first leg; Scottland coach Norman Mapeza says the job is “only half done,” and Musona’s omission is linked to a hamstring injury. Local Governance & Trade: Mbabane City Council won best exhibitor and most innovative exhibitor at the Eswatini International Trade Fair, as government backs plans to upgrade Mavuso into a permanent trade hub. Money-Laundering Safeguards: Eswatini secured four upgrades in FATF-related assessments, leaving only eight standards below compliant levels and strengthening its fight against greylisting. Health & Social Welfare: Mercy Mission is appealing for urgent public support to save vital orphan and child welfare programmes across 14 African countries.

Independence Day Diplomacy: UAE leaders sent congratulations to King Mswati III and Prime Minister Russell Dlamini, while Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev also wrote to the King, saying “favorable conditions” are helping strengthen Azerbaijan–Eswatini ties after King Mswati’s WUF13 visit. Local Governance & Trade: Mbabane City Council won best exhibitor and most innovative exhibitor at the Eswatini International Trade Fair, as government pushed plans to turn Mavuso into a permanent trade and investment hub. Economy & Finance: Eswatini cleared four hurdles in a money-laundering test, improving its FATF standing; the Eswatini Stock Exchange unveiled “Kwakhanya 2030” to reposition capital markets for wealth creation. Public Services: Government projects worth about E600m are stalled due to slow cash flow, leaving contractors and workers waiting and communities short on schools, roads, water and livestock dipping tanks. Sports: Nsingizini Hotspurs prepare for CAF action in Harare; Green Mamba’s CAF campaign took a tough hit after a 2-0 loss to Angola’s Primeiro de Agosto, while Eswatini swimmers won nine medals at Zone IV and Hayley Hoy led the haul.

SADC Security: The SADC Troika is set to take up Zambia’s post-election crisis after a preliminary report from its observer mission, with opposition leader Brian Mundubile still jailed and a former minister reported dead after a military raid during the vote count. CAF Champions League build-up: Nsingizini Hotspurs coach Mandla Qhogi says Harare church noise disrupted sleep ahead of today’s clash with Scottland FC, while Green Mamba’s CAF run ends in defeat after a punishing schedule. Independence Day diplomacy: UAE leaders sent congratulations to King Mswati III, while Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev said “favorable conditions” are helping strengthen Azerbaijan–Eswatini relations. Local governance and welfare: The DPM’s office says it is stepping up action on child neglect cases, warning mothers who abandon babies while drinking or socialising will face the law. Finance watch: Eswatini improved its anti-money laundering standing, clearing four hurdles to reach satisfactory ratings on 32 of 40 FATF standards. Sports & culture: Hayley Hoy led Eswatini’s medal haul at Africa Aquatics Zone IV, and King Mswati III challenged the King’s Cup Golf committee to raise E10 million in sponsorship.

CAF Football: 1º de Agosto beat Eswatini’s Green Mamba 2-0 in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup qualifier in Luanda, with an own goal in the 54th minute and Rupson adding a second in the 85th; the return leg is set for next Saturday at Estádio 11 de Novembro. Royal & National Identity: Uganda’s royal family mourns the death of King Oyo Rukidi IV, with mourners from eastern DRC barred from the burial amid Ebola concerns; meanwhile, Eswatini marks September 5-6 observances and continues to spotlight King Mswati III’s role in cultural preservation. Climate & Water: King Mswati III unveils Eswatini’s bold emissions cut target—2.24 million tonnes by 2035—and calls for accelerated investment to secure clean water for all by 2030. Weather Watch: Eswatini braces for a potentially historic El Niño season from October 2026 to March 2027, with forecasts pointing to very high chances of El Niño conditions. Energy Policy: MNRE invites stakeholders to comment on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances, with consultation workshops scheduled across regions starting 8 September. Sports Governance: Nsingizini Hotspurs coach Mandla Qhogi warns CAF could take charge of Eswatini’s league if domestic fixtures don’t align with continental requirements. Public Health: Woolworths and the National Consumer Commission recall WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo after bacteria contamination concerns, including sales across Eswatini and neighbouring countries.

CAF Football: Eswatini champions Nsingizini Hotspurs face Scottland FC in the CAF Champions League preliminary round in Harare on Sunday, with Hotspurs coach Mandla Qhogi warning that clashes with CAF requirements could even put the league at risk. Local Football: Green Mamba booked a semi-final spot after beating Red Rhinos 3-0 in the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup, while Moneni Pirates also advanced after a 2-0 win over Celtics. Weather & Food Security: Eswatini braces for a very strong El Niño season from October 2026 to March 2027, with forecasts pointing to warmer-than-normal conditions and a high chance of historic impacts. Energy Policy: The MNRE has launched stakeholder consultations on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting, with workshops scheduled across the country. Business & Finance: Business Eswatini is pushing for more private-sector input into the sovereign credit rating process as government debt pressures grow. Health & Safety: Woolworths/Eswatini consumers are warned to stop using a recalled w.beauty clarifying shampoo batch after a bacterium was detected. Governance & Crime: South Africa’s Madlanga Commission has shown “Big Five” cartel photos, naming men allegedly linked to crime intelligence, police, courts and politics.

Madlanga Commission: The “Big Five” cartel probe has moved from whispers to faces, with the commission showing photos naming Katiso “KT” Molefe, Steve Motsumi, Ignatius Mothakathi, Andrew “Boy” Mthethwa (King Nyambose) and the late Jothan “Mswazi” Msibi, as the inquiry continues to link alleged organised crime to police, courts and politics. Agriculture & trade: Eswatini is among 23 countries hit by the Philippines’ temporary ban on importing FMD-susceptible animals and certain meat products after lab-confirmed outbreaks reported to WOAH. Energy policy: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has opened stakeholder consultations on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners and lighting, with workshops scheduled across Hhohho, Manzini, Shiselweni and Lubombo. Weather risk: Eswatini braces for a very strong El Niño season from October 2026 to March 2027, with forecasters warning of warmer-than-normal conditions and a high chance of historic intensity. Football: Nsingizini Hotspurs’ CAF Champions League build-up is under pressure after coach Mandla Qhogi warned CAF could take charge of the league if domestic scheduling fails CAF requirements, ahead of their preliminary-round first leg against Scottland FC in Harare. Business & finance: Business Eswatini is pushing for a stronger private-sector role in shaping the country’s sovereign credit rating process, arguing ratings affect investment and the cost of capital. Consumer safety: Woolworths has recalled WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo sold in Eswatini and other countries due to a bacteria contamination concern.

El Niño Watch: Eswatini Meteorological Service warns of a very strong El Niño from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027, with a 90%+ chance of El Niño conditions and a high risk of historic drought impacts. Energy Policy: Government is inviting public input on Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances, while the PM says Eswatini aims to exceed 1,000MW of domestic power by 2030 and is opening the sector to Independent Power Producers with local ownership, jobs and skills. Fuel Prices: Petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin rise from midnight Thursday, citing tighter global supply and higher crude prices. Business & Credit: Business Eswatini pushes for a bigger private-sector role in sovereign credit rating processes as debt and investor confidence remain key concerns. Sports: Nsingizini Hotspurs face CAF Champions League action against Scottland FC, with warnings that domestic scheduling must meet CAF requirements; Green Mamba advance in the Trade Fair Cup. Public Health: Woolworths recalls WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo after bacteria is detected; consumers are urged to stop using and return for refunds. Youth & Community: ENYC launches a nationwide drive to strengthen youth representation across 59 Tinkhundla.

Energy & Investment: Prime Minister Russell Dlamini says Eswatini aims to exceed 1,000MW of domestic power by 2030, targeting universal access and opening the sector to Independent Power Producers as developers, investors and owners—not just contractors. He also urged “Africa First” energy ownership and partnerships that build jobs, skills and local companies. Power Prices: Motorists face higher fuel costs from Friday, with petrol up E1.30 and diesel and paraffin up E1.35 per litre. Financial Inclusion: Central Bank Governor Dr Phil Mnisi has been appointed AfPI Chairman, giving Eswatini a stronger voice on Africa’s financial inclusion agenda. Economy Watch: CSO reports GDP reached E96.6bn in 2025, growing 4.8%. Public Safety: Police seized 58 illegal firearms and 509 rounds of ammunition during the AU Firearm Surrender Amnesty period. Youth & Community: ENYC launches a drive to strengthen youth representation at grassroots level, training 489 youth leaders across 59 Tinkhundla. Sports: COSAFA moved the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations/COSAFA qualifier to Mozambique; Netball Eswatini budgets E200,000 for the Africa Netball Cup in Kenya. Consumer Alert: Woolworths recalls a clarifying shampoo batch after a bacterium was detected. Culture & Lifestyle: +268 MCC’s Inaugural Bikers Rally in Mbabane (Sept 18–20) gets a star-studded entertainment line-up.

Gospel & Culture: Eswatini Praise has drawn over 100 auditions within hours as Big Fish Productions opens a talent search for the next premier Gospel voice. Economy Watch: The CSO reports GDP hit E96.6bn in 2025, with real growth rising to 4.8% driven mainly by a stronger tertiary sector. Public Service: Government provisionally set aside E160m to handle appeals linked to the 2025 public service salary review, with processing still under way after the Umhlanga holiday extension effect. Security: Police seized 58 illegal firearms and 509 rounds of ammunition, arresting 87 people during the AU Firearm Surrender Amnesty Month period. Crime & Courts: Botswana seeks the provisional arrest of two nationals detained in Eswatini over alleged cellphone theft tied to an ATM bombing in Hhohho. Energy & Business: UNDP urged firms to protect profits by investing smarter, not just raising prices, while Eswatini and Namibia push ahead with rooftop solar application portals. Sports: Netball Eswatini budgets E200,000 for the men’s Africa Netball Cup in Kenya, and Nsingizini Hotspurs’ CAF tie tickets go on sale for the Harare clash.