Zimbabwe, Eswatini Pledge to Revive Joint Cooperation Framework

President Emmerson Mnangagwa says his state visit to Eswatini is expected to inject new energy into efforts to strengthen and broaden cooperation between the two nations.

The visit coincides with Eswatini’s 57th International Trade Fair and the traditional Umhlanga dance festival. Upon arrival, President Mnangagwa and his delegation were hosted at a State Banquet at Lozita Palace.

Zimbabwe and Eswatini enjoy long-standing relations and both governments are keen to expand collaboration across multiple sectors of the economy.

Reflecting on Eswatini’s 2023 state visit to Harare, President Mnangagwa said the two countries share a commitment to elevating cooperation for mutual benefit.

“This visit must accelerate the revival of our Joint Economic and Technical Cooperation framework so that agreed programmes can be implemented. Partnerships in agriculture, tourism, trade, education, science, innovation, technology and culture deserve our focused attention,” he said.

He also encouraged citizens to make use of the direct Eswatini Airlines flight to Harare, saying it would boost business opportunities, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

Mnangagwa added that Zimbabwe remains open to investors despite global shocks, climate challenges and the impact of sanctions.

“Zimbabwe continues to register notable progress across sectors under our people-centred development philosophy: ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhulekelwe ngabanikazi balo (a nation is built, governed and prayed for by its own people). The growth of our countries and Africa at large is our responsibility, although we welcome assistance aligned with our priorities and aimed at improving the quality of life of our people,” he said.

The President also urged the international community to continue pressing for reforms at the United Nations, while thanking Eswatini for backing Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.

King Mswati III expressed confidence that the visit would create new pathways for cooperation, noting that both economies are anchored in agriculture.

“The partnership between Zimbabwe and Eswatini is rooted in mutual commitment to economic empowerment and regional integration. Our people can benefit from agro-processing, renewable energy, and joint ventures in tourism, education and other sectors. By placing citizens at the centre of development, we will ensure that Eswatini and Zimbabwe remain symbols of hope,” he said.

During the visit, President Mnangagwa is set to officially open the Eswatini International Trade Fair on Saturday and attend the Umhlanga Dance ceremony.