AGP Executive Report

Judiciary & National Leadership: Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala’s death has triggered tributes across Eswatini’s legal circles, with Chief Justice Martha Koome calling him a valued colleague and the Law Society of Eswatini regretting it never got to meet him on key justice and rule-of-law issues. Sports—CAF & Local Football: At Somhlolo National Stadium, Nsingizini Hotspurs were held 0-0 by Scottland FC, crashing out 1-0 on aggregate; the giant CAF screen reportedly suffered a blackout all match, while Scottland now face Atlético Petróleos de Luanda in the next CAF Champions League round. Economic Empowerment: Parliament has tabled Economic Empowerment Regulations reserving all retail operations under E8 million annual turnover for emaSwati, covering everything from supermarkets and pharmacies to hardware, liquor outlets and convenience stores. Health & Mental Wellbeing: A psychiatric hospital is facing overcrowding, and gambling addiction has been flagged as a contributing cause, prompting calls for stronger gambling controls. Road Safety: A Bushenyi crash in Uganda killed an S6 student and another passenger after a trailer knocked a motorcycle, with the rider in critical condition. Culture & Youth: Eswatini marked the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Flame with “We Run for Africa” activities, including a 5km walk in Lobamba.

Judiciary: Chief Justice Martha Koome has condoled with Eswatini after the death of Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala, praising his leadership and regional judicial cooperation through the Southern and Eastern Africa Chief Justices’ Forum. Politics & governance: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has appealed for dignity and privacy for the bereaved family, while also registering for the 2028 elections early as the Elections and Boundaries Commission rolls out continuous voter registration. Regional security: The PM met SADC’s Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation delegation as Eswatini prepares to assume chairship, with focus on priorities and programme activities. Sports (CAF): Scottland FC advanced in the CAF Champions League after a goalless draw with Nsingizini Hotspurs, winning 1-0 on aggregate, and will face Atlético Petróleos de Luanda next. Environment: Eswatini Environment Authority warns that illegal mining is polluting the Phophonyane River with mercury and other contamination risks to communities. STEM & youth: ICT rewarded top learners from the 2026 National Schools STEM Expo with tablets, and Eswatini joined Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Flame celebrations with a “We Run for Africa” 5km walk. Business & finance: Taxpayers are helping PSPF recover an E300m+ investment tied to a Mbabane bus-rank building deal, with concerns raised about government’s rent commitments.

CAF Champions League: Scottland FC held Nsingizini Hotspurs to a goalless draw at Somhlolo National Stadium to win 1-0 on aggregate and book a second-round place, with coach Norman Mapeza praising disciplined defending. Local Football: Former Kaizer Chiefs star Khama Billiat and Spanish coach Tomeu Perello Palou both said the result proves Eswatini’s league quality matches Zimbabwe’s. SADC Chairship Prep: Prime Minister Russell Dlamini met SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation officials as Eswatini gears up for the chairship, covering priorities across foreign affairs, defence, policing, immigration and corrections. Judiciary: Government mourned the death of Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala, stressing judicial independence and urging the public to respect the family’s privacy amid insensitive online commentary. Environment: The Eswatini Environment Authority says illegal mining is polluting the Phophonyane River with mercury-linked contamination risks for communities. STEM & Youth: ICT minister Savannah Maziya backed young women in STEM as top learners received tablets and scholarships. Sports Development: Eswatini named a strong Africa Netball Cup squad for Nairobi, while VAR official Letticia Viana earned five FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026 appointments.

CAF Champions League: Scottland carry a 1-0 aggregate lead into today’s second leg against Nsingizini Hotspurs at Somhlolo National Stadium, with Nsingizini needing at least two goals to progress; former Kaizer Chiefs star Khama Billiat and EFA technical director Tomeu Perello Palou both say the tie shows Eswatini’s league quality is on par with Zimbabwe, while the match is officiated by Madagascar referee Andrisoa Arnaud Zafimahatoha. Judiciary: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini and government mourn the death of Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala, urging the public to respect the family’s privacy amid insensitive online commentary. Health & Community: King Mswati III opened and renamed the Khanyisile Hee Yeon Clinic, saying it surpasses healthcare access targets by bringing services within five kilometres of Nyonyane. Sports & Culture: Thousands of Imbali thronged Shiselweni for Umhlanga second leg activities, while registration for the Mbabane Marathon opens ahead of the Nov 21 race. Youth & STEM: ICT minister Savannah Maziya urged women to lead Eswatini’s STEM future as scholarships were awarded to top performers.

CAF Champions League: Nsingizini Hotspurs host Zimbabwe’s Scottland at Somhlolo National Stadium today needing to overturn a 0-1 first-leg loss; a 1-0 win sends it to penalties, while a two-goal-plus victory puts Eswatini’s champions through, though they’ll miss captain Kingsley Kwayki after his red card. Judiciary: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini urged the public to respect the family of late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala, after his death in South Africa, warning against insensitive online commentary. Health: King Mswati III opened the E200m Khanyisile Hee Yeon Clinic in Ezulwini, pushing for a sustainability plan and completion of remaining phases. Sports & culture: Thousands of Imbali have begun the second leg of Umhlanga in Shiselweni, while Mbabane Marathon registration opens for the Nov 21 race. STEM push: ICT minister Savannah Maziya called for women to lead STEM as scholarships were awarded to top students. Chess: Eswatini begins the FIDE Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities against Turkmenistan in Samarkand.

Health & Infrastructure: King Mswati III inaugurated the E200m Khanyisile Hee Yeon Clinic in Ezulwini, renaming the E50m first phase and urging a sustainability plan so services keep reaching the Nyonyane community within five kilometres. STEM & Youth: ICT minister Savannah Maziya told young women to lead Eswatini’s STEM future, celebrating top performers and awarding scholarships covering 75% of tuition at Botho University. Sports—CAF: Scottland FC arrived in Eswatini for the Champions League second leg against Nsingizini Hotspurs, carrying a 1-0 lead and aiming to progress with a clean sheet. Local Sports Calendar: Mbabane Marathon registration opened for the Nov 21 race, with local runners paying in phases and international entries set for the full marathon at E400. Regional Affairs: Eswatini reaffirmed its commitment to peace and security after taking SADC Chairship of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation. Football Administration: Red Rhinos withdrew from their Premier League status deal with Manzini Wanderers, citing identity, contracts, registration and outstanding payments. Disability Inclusion: Eswatini was urged to turn its disability inclusion plans into funded action through the Costed National Disability Action Plan (2024–2028).

Regional Diplomacy: Eswatini has reaffirmed its commitment to peace and security as it assumes the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation chairship, with officials briefed on responsibilities and expectations. Healthcare Access: His Majesty King Mswati III officially opened and renamed the E50m Khanyisile Hee Yeon Clinic, saying it surpasses targets by bringing care within five kilometres of Nyonyane. Justice: Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala has died in South Africa after a short illness, ending a near-11-year tenure as head of the judiciary. CAF Football: Scottland FC arrived in Eswatini ahead of the Champions League second leg against Nsingizini Hotspurs, while Green Mamba’s Angola return match is framed as a do-or-die push for a possible E6.4m prize. Business & Regulation: Eswatini Competition Commission officials discussed new COMESA Competition and Consumer Protection Regulations, 2025, covering enforcement, merger control and consumer protection. Sports Venues: Somhlolo National Stadium and Mavuso Sports Centre are shortlisted to host SAIMSA Games events from September 20–25. Education & Energy: Three Eswatini students are set for petroleum and energy studies in Azerbaijan on SOCAR scholarships following the King’s Baku visit. Public Finance & Waste: PM Russell Dlamini and senators toured the E52m Matsapha Waste Management Plant and oxygen facilities as part of oversight visits. Travel Convenience: South Korea’s K-ETA list includes Eswatini, allowing eligible citizens to apply electronically instead of using a traditional visa.

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.