AGP Executive Report

Zimbabwe crash and fallout: Zimbabwean tycoon Wicknell Chivayo, 43, and his wife Lucy were killed in a helicopter crash near Harare; Zimbabwe aviation investigators say fuel spilled on impact and a fire followed, while police counts differ on the number of occupants. Wealth scrutiny: Chivayo’s reported US$25m estate has triggered fresh online questions after reports of a Supreme Court divorce/asset dispute being removed from the court roll. Eswatini governance: MPs passed the EPTC loan Bill to support the financially distressed Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation, with management assuring no retrenchments—though workers’ letters have raised fears. Local politics: Seven candidates vie for a vacant bucopho seat in Manzini by-elections; vetting comes first, with campaigning set to start Oct 6. Public services: Central Bank of Eswatini says it is funding legal, forensic and asset-tracing work to recover losses linked to Ecsponent investors, including assets allegedly moved to South Africa. Community safety: In Lubombo, a 53-year-old grave was reportedly dug up, exposing remains and clothing, shocking residents and prompting police involvement. International pressure on flights: A US senator warned China’s tactics to restrict Taiwanese presidential flights could endanger international travellers, citing delays affecting Eswatini’s diplomatic links. Economy and development: Eswatini’s GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, and Ezulwini Municipality reported revenue up to E69.5m with a E41m surplus.

Manzini By-Election: Seven candidates have been nominated to contest one vacant bucopho seat after the death of the late bucopho for St Paul’s. The Elections and Boundaries Commission confirmed two women and five men, but campaigning only starts after vetting; qualified candidates are set to begin campaigning on October 6, 2026. Theatre & Diplomacy: More than 150 artists from South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Botswana arrived for the October International Theatre Festival in Mbabane, with masterclasses and performances aimed at building skills and strengthening regional ties. Ecsponent Recovery: The Central Bank of Eswatini says it has funded legal, forensic and asset-tracing work to recover Ecsponent investor losses, including investigations into assets allegedly moved to South Africa, with wider tracing potentially costing E6m–E8m. Local Governance & Services: In Mbikwakhe, over 300 residents say they’ve been forced to drink from a muddy stream since June after a borehole pump failed and borehole water was declared unsafe. Court & Corruption: A Home Affairs civil registrar accused of issuing Eswatini IDs to a South African crime figure appeared in court, where the magistrate ordered her not to cover her face. Economy: Eswatini’s real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, with primary, secondary and tertiary sectors all expanding year-on-year. International Watch: A U.S. senator warned that China-linked restrictions on Taiwanese presidential flights could endanger international travellers.

Central Bank Recovery Effort: The Central Bank of Eswatini says it has funded legal, forensic and asset-tracing work to recover money linked to Ecsponent investors, including investigations into assets allegedly moved to South Africa, with a possible wider probe into multiple jurisdictions estimated at E6m–E8m and 8–12 months. Parliament & Public Services: MPs passed the EPTC loan Bill to support the financially distressed Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation, with management assuring there are no plans for retrenchments—though workers’ retrenchment letters remain a concern. Education & Skills Recognition: A parliamentary committee wants Sebenta National Institute qualifications properly recognised and made portable beyond Eswatini, while addressing stigma and ensuring competency testing. Local Government Finance: Ezulwini Municipality reported revenue rising to E69.5m and a E41m surplus in 2025/26, alongside infrastructure and service delivery gains. Economy Watch: Eswatini’s real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, with primary, secondary and tertiary sectors expanding year-on-year. International Diplomacy: Eswatini welcomed its first resident FAO representative in Mbabane and reaffirmed a deepening 58-year partnership with Taiwan, including plans for a strategic fuel reserve. Sports & Culture: EFA bought a GWM bakkie worth over E600k for FIFA’s talent pathway coach; and the October International Theatre Festival opened in Mbabane with training for young performers.

Zimbabwe Wealth & Power: Flamboyant tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy Muteke were killed in a helicopter crash near Marondera, with Zimbabwe aviation investigators reporting fuel spilled on impact and a fire followed; the death renews scrutiny of a wealthy elite tied to ruling circles. Eswatini Economy: The Central Statistical Office says real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, with primary, secondary and tertiary sectors expanding year-on-year. UN Diplomacy: King Mswati III renewed Africa’s push for a permanent UN Security Council seat, arguing decisions affect the continent while it lacks representation. Eswatini–Taiwan Ties: Mbabane and Taipei pledged deeper cooperation for the next 58 years, including a Strategic Fuel Reserve and an industrial innovation park. Local Governance & Jobs: MPs passed the EPTC loan Bill after assurances there are no plans to retrench staff, though retrenchment letters have already been issued. Education & Skills: A parliamentary committee urged Sebenta National Institute qualifications to be properly recognised and made portable beyond Eswatini. Labour & Politics: SNAT’s new president warned leaders to keep the trade union separate from political parties. Cybersecurity: ESCCOM was designated the national cybersecurity agency and urged stronger protection as digital reliance grows.

Eswatini–FAO Deal: Eswatini officially welcomed its first locally based Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) representative in Mbabane, with Foreign Affairs Minister Pholile Shakantu receiving credentials for Rosanne Marchesich—fulfilling a King Mswati III commitment to strengthen food security and climate resilience. AU Seed Summit Prep: Preparations for Eswatini’s African Union Seed Summit are gaining momentum, with 984 delegates registered for the Oct 5–7 event and 20 ministers already confirmed, despite early registration hiccups. Fuel Prices Hit Households: Eswatini announced a E3.43 per litre fuel hike from midnight Thursday, pushing ULP 95 to E29.40, diesel to E32.25 and paraffin to E25.16, citing global oil shocks and supply disruptions. Cybersecurity Push: ESCCOM was designated the national cybersecurity agency under the 2022 Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, tasked with regulation, coordination and incident response. Zimbabwe Crash Echoes Region: Zimbabwe confirmed the deaths of billionaire Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy Muteke in a helicopter crash near Marondera, with no survivors—sparking renewed scrutiny of elite wealth across the region.

UN Diplomacy: King Mswati III returned from UNGA 81 in New York, using the platform to push for stronger multilateral cooperation and renewed climate finance, while also raising Africa’s long wait for permanent UN Security Council representation. Food & Agriculture: Eswatini officially welcomed its first locally based FAO representative in Mbabane, fulfilling a 2024 royal commitment and strengthening efforts against food insecurity and malnutrition. Agriculture & Regional Trade: Preparations for the AU Seed Summit are gaining momentum, with 984 delegates already registered and 20 ministers confirmed for the Oct 5–7 meeting. Fuel Prices & Cost of Living: Government says it has spent over E613m cushioning consumers via the Strategic Oil Reserve Fund, but motorists still face a new E3.43 per litre fuel hike effective from midnight Oct 1. Cybersecurity: ESCCOM was designated as the national cybersecurity agency under the 2022 Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, with a mandate to regulate, coordinate and build capacity. Sports Governance: Eswatini’s Sihlangu head coach vacancy continues after the EFA missed its end-of-September deadline, leaving the national team without a permanent coach. Regional Economy: AfDB urged formalising Eswatini’s large informal sector to broaden the tax base and improve access to finance. Zimbabwe Shockwave: Zimbabwe tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife were killed in a helicopter crash near Marondera, intensifying scrutiny of wealth and political ties across the region.

Royal Swazi Spa Sale in Court: Eswatini’s High Court master has alleged threats could derail the Royal Swazi Spa transaction, after correspondence tied to the setting aside of a co-liquidator appointment raised fears of challenges to liquidation steps. Football Governance: The Eswatini Football Association missed its own deadline to name a new Sihlangu head coach, leaving the interim setup in place after a heavy aggregate loss to Eritrea. Immigration Overhaul: Government is moving to fast-track the Immigration Bill 2025 to replace the 1982 law, with proposed changes including stronger enforcement powers and updated border-management measures. US Deportations Spillover: The US Supreme Court cleared the way for Trump’s “third-country” deportations, with Eswatini named among destinations—while Burundi also agreed to accept some deportees under conditions. Tourism Tax Crackdown: ETA and ERS signed an MoU to tighten compliance on the 3% bed levy, targeting accommodation businesses that may not be remitting properly. Local Development Finance: Matsapha Town Council borrowed E31.7m to rehabilitate industrial roads, including drainage and pedestrian works. Arts & Culture: The October International Theatre Festival kicks off in Mbabane with cross-border mentorship and workshops. Sports Milestone: Eswatini’s Santiago “Santi” De Nobrega became the country’s first-ever FIDE Master at the Chess Olympiad.

Immigration overhaul: Eswatini is moving to fast-track the Immigration Bill 2025 to replace the 1982 Act, with reforms aimed at tackling border delays and enforcement gaps, including possible powers for officers to carry firearms and detain offenders. Tourism tax enforcement: The Eswatini Tourism Authority and Eswatini Revenue Service signed an MoU to tighten compliance on the 3% bed levy, improving information sharing and referrals for non-compliant accommodation providers. Parliament pressure on utilities and land: MPs challenged the Natural Resources and Energy minister over alleged EEC billing and consent issues for power poles on private land, while another MP warned that unresolved land laws and farm boundary disputes are driving some citizens to take matters into their own hands. Regional diplomacy: The Prime Minister met Tanzania’s ambassador to strengthen cooperation across education, tourism and politics, including SADC security and defence coordination. Sports and culture: Pitso Mosimane returns to Egypt for the Afcon qualifier against Eritrea, while Eswatini’s October International Theatre Festival kicks off in Mbabane with cross-border mentorship and young talent. Business and development: Matsapha Town Council borrowed E31.7m for industrial road rehabilitation, and EU/ITC support is training 17 local trainers to help exporters use market intelligence. US deportations ripple: The US Supreme Court lifted limits on “third-country” deportations, with Eswatini named among destinations, as Burundi said it will accept some deportees under strict conditions.

US Deportation Ruling: The US Supreme Court has lifted a block on Donald Trump’s “third-country” deportations, allowing removals to countries where migrants have no ties, while the case continues to be argued in December; rights groups and UN experts warn the policy is triggering a cascade of abuses, including torture and trafficking risks, with Eswatini named among destinations. Local Infrastructure Finance: In Matsapha, the Town Council has borrowed E31.7m from Standard Bank Eswatini to rehabilitate 3.2km of industrial roads, adding drainage and walkways, as traffic and backlog pressures grow. Parliament on Power Billing: MPs challenged the Natural Resources and Energy minister over alleged EEC practices of erecting poles on private land and charging relocation fees, with the minister citing existing consent procedures. Land Disputes Warning: A Gege MP warned that unresolved farm boundaries and land laws are pushing citizens toward lawlessness and repeated demolitions that leave families destitute. Tourism Push: Tibiyo TakaNgwane says the Royal Swazi Hotel reopening is nearing completion, while the Mlawula Campfire Festival is drawing record crowds and is framed as part of King Mswati III’s tourism growth drive. Trade Capacity: The EU/ITC-backed programme is training 17 local export trainers to help businesses use market intelligence tools.

Parliament & Power Billing: MPs challenged the EEC over alleged pole relocation fees, saying power lines may be erected on private land without proper consent, while the minister cited the legal protocol and said any improper cases are isolated. Land & Social Stability: A Gege MP warned that unresolved land laws and unclear farm boundaries are driving demolitions and pushing citizens toward “lawlessness,” urging enforcement earlier at foundation stage. Teachers’ Union Pressure: SNAT’s outgoing president Mbongwa Dlamini urged the next leadership to move beyond cost-of-living demands toward a living wage and stronger employment conditions, recounting his own suspension and dismissal history. Tourism & Jobs: Tibiyo TakaNgwane says the Royal Swazi Hotel reopening is nearing completion after due diligence, while the Mlawula Campfire Festival topped 1,200 attendees and is framed as part of King Mswati III’s tourism growth push. Local Governance & Crime: Matsapha budget talks flagged rising security concerns and called for CCTV coverage to improve monitoring. Human Development: Education officials put literacy at about 90% but warned early-grade reading gaps remain; ESCCOM also urged parents to monitor children’s cellphone use amid online trafficking risks. Economy Outlook: A new forecast expects growth to slow to 3.5% in 2027, with manufacturing and SACU receipts highlighted as key drivers.

Human Rights Watch: UN experts warn US “third-country” deportation deals are triggering a cascade of abuses, including torture, slavery, trafficking and enforced disappearance, as Washington signs transfer arrangements with 35+ countries. Local Governance: The Eswatini Urban Forum (Oct 28–30) will push municipalities to move from planning to execution despite tight budgets, focusing on financing, smart solutions and resilient infrastructure. Public Safety: Matsapha residents and stakeholders are calling for CCTV cameras in the town to strengthen crime prevention ahead of the 2027/28 budget. Economy & Finance: The Central Bank extended technical support to EswatiniBank for 12 more months, with a CBE COO seconded from Oct 1 to help implement the turnaround plan. Digital Protection: ESCCOM urged parents to monitor children’s cellphone use as online child traffickers increasingly use social media to lure minors. Education: Eswatini’s literacy rate is reported at about 90%, but early-grade reading and maths gaps remain. Health & Youth: A MP-linked suicide prevention push points to youth barriers like limited tertiary access and scholarship corruption. International Spotlight: Eswatini match official Letticia Viana wrapped up a FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup run in Poland with eight assignments.

Central Bank & Banking Turnaround: The CBE extended technical support to EswatiniBank for another 12 months, with COO Mfan’fikile Dlamini seconded from Oct 1 to help implement the turnaround plan. Cost of Living & Finance: The CBE raised the discount rate by 25 basis points to 7.00%, pushing expectations that prime lending rates will climb and borrowing costs will rise. Governance & Digital Security: Police say a third-party client linked to the Royal Science and Technology Park may have been used to access the National Data Centre during a cyber incident; Interpol has been engaged for technical help. Public Administration Accountability: A Home Affairs official was dismissed after issuing a fraudulent death certificate used to solicit insurance money, triggering a fraud investigation. Health & Social Policy: A proposal would require at least 12 pre-marital counselling sessions before couples marry, aimed at reducing the divorce rate. Youth & Risk: Parliamentarians and partners flagged drivers of suicide among youth, including limited tertiary access and scholarship corruption. Regional Politics & Diplomacy: 77 countries walked out during Netanyahu’s UN speech, including several African states such as Eswatini. Sports & National Pride: Eswatini men’s netball missed gold, losing 49-45 to South Africa, while Eswatini’s players won individual honours at the Africa Netball Cup. Climate Warning: El Niño-linked heat risks are projected to drive major heat-related deaths across the Global South, including in Africa. Business & Membership: Business Eswatini rejected Inyatsi Group’s bid for membership or re-admission, with some companies seeking Platinum or Gold tiers.

AfDB & Local Procurement: PM Russell Mmiso Dlamini urged the African Development Bank to open major Eswatini project opportunities to qualified local firms and young people, citing LUSIP II and Mpakeni Dam and pushing for procurement frameworks that deliver tangible benefits for emaSwati. Cost of Borrowing Up: The Central Bank of Eswatini raised the discount rate 25 bps to 7.00%, expected to lift prime lending rates to about 10.50%, raising pressure on households and businesses. TLC Probe Launched: Health Minister Mduduzi Matsebula set up a commission of inquiry into The Luke Commission (TLC) after a government announcement, with a 15-member team empowered to access the facility and departments while TLC gets a chance to respond. Mbabane Planning for a Cleaner City: Mbabane Municipal Council CEO Gciniwe Fakudze says the capital is pushing drainage fixes, road rehabilitation, walkways and streetlight servicing, alongside a Town Planning Scheme review and public participation. Princess Lindiwe Remembered: Mourners across the region attended memorials and tributes for late Home Affairs Minister Princess Lindiwe, with King Mswati III praised for shaping her cultural leadership and national service. US Deportation Network: Reporting highlights the Trump administration’s third-country deportation deals, including Eswatini receiving deportees, as legal challenges continue. Sports & Politics Collide in Netball: Eswatini’s netball teams faced South Africa in Nairobi, with Eswatini missing gold but earning major individual honours.

Eswatini Netball Spotlight: The Kingdom’s men’s team fell short of Africa Netball Cup gold in Nairobi, losing 49-45 to South Africa after a strong run that earned Ndukwe Masangane MVP and Thembinkosi “Lorch” Matsebula Best Mid-Court Player. Regional Sports Politics: South Africa takes the SAIMSA Games baton for 2027 after Eswatini hosted the 2026 edition, with Mbabane’s own municipal participation and winners highlighted at the closing ceremony. Health & Accountability: Government has set up a 15-member commission of inquiry to probe The Luke Commission (TLC) after allegations of malpractice, with the team granted access to the facility and relevant departments. Economy & Households: The Central Bank of Eswatini raised its discount rate by 25 basis points to 7.00%, pushing banks to lift prime lending rates to 10.50% and raising borrowing costs. Governance & Digital Risk: RSTP insiders warn governance failures are behind disruptions to government’s digital infrastructure, citing gaps in leadership, cyber-security and funding. International Diplomacy: Eswatini’s King Mswati III urged climate justice at the UN and called for enforcement of peace agreements, while the UN General Assembly saw a major walkout during Netanyahu’s speech. Football Watch: Eswatini U-23 coach Friday Myeni says his side will attack Malawi in the CAF qualifier, aiming to settle the tie early. Public Life & Loss: Princess Lindiwe Dlamini is remembered for faith and national service as mourners gather for her memorial and state funeral.

UN Diplomacy & Taiwan: Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine urged UN inclusion for Taiwan’s elected government, warning that Resolution 2758 is being used to justify coercion and undermine navigation. Eswatini at the UN: King Mswati III pushed for climate justice and predictable climate finance, and called for enforcement of signed peace agreements. Regional Sports: Eswatini’s men’s netball Africa Cup dream ended in Nairobi as South Africa edged them 49-45, despite a strong third quarter; Eswatini had earlier beaten Kenya to reach the final. Mbabane City Planning: Mbabane’s municipal push focuses on drainage, road rehabilitation, pedestrian walkways, streetlights, and public participation as it updates the Town Planning Scheme. Matlala Court Update: Tsakane Matlala was granted R20,000 bail in a fraud case while “Cat” Matlala remains in custody; the matter is set for further investigation on Oct 29. Governance & Economy: Economist Sanele Sibiya backed calls for slower borrowing as public debt sits around 40.4% of GDP, urging stronger debt management and fiscal discipline. Home Affairs Security: 63 travel documents worth E9,450 were reported stolen from Siteki Home Affairs amid ongoing investigations into document corruption. Business & Finance: Standard Bank Eswatini stressed that family businesses must prove cashflow capacity to service loans.

UN Diplomacy & Security Council Reform: King Mswati III used the UN General Assembly to press for climate justice and for binding enforcement of peace agreements, while Cabinet ministers later highlighted his call for Security Council reform under the Ezulwini Consensus. Mbabane Urban Governance: Mbabane’s municipal leadership says it is pushing cleaner, smarter, more inclusive city planning, including drainage fixes, road rehabilitation, pedestrian walkways and streetlight servicing, alongside a review of the Town Planning Scheme and public participation. Princess Lindiwe Memorial: Thousands gathered at Jesus Calls Worship Centre in Matsapha for the late Home Affairs Minister Princess Lindiwe’s memorial, with mourners and officials from across the region and beyond, ahead of a state funeral. Matlala Court Update: Tsakane Matlala was granted R20,000 bail in a fraud case while her husband “Cat” remains in custody; the matter was postponed to October 29, with further hearings expected in mid-October. Eswatini–Taiwan Ties: Eswatini’s support for Taiwan at the UN drew praise from Taiwan’s president, as both sides continue disaster-response cooperation and engagement. Local Economy & Debt: An economist backed calls for slower government borrowing, warning public debt has crossed key thresholds and needs stronger debt management. Health & Skills: IndabaX Eswatini showcased young innovators using AI for cashflow verification, business profiling and cattle disease diagnosis, pointing to practical tech solutions. Sports (Politics-by-Proxy): Mbabane Highlanders AM face Amawele in a headline MTN Premier League clash, reflecting shifting club leadership and South African business influence in local football.