AGP Executive Report

MTN Leadership in Eswatini: Jerry Soko has been named CEO of MTN Eswatini, taking over permanently on 1 July after seven months as acting boss, with the group citing improved performance, stronger operational discipline and deeper customer focus. Justice and Mercy: King Mswati III has ordered a review of convicted inmates’ sentences through the Prerogative of Mercy Committee, saying the move balances justice with compassion and rewards rehabilitation. EMCU Court Fight: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini defended the commission of inquiry into Eswatini Medical Christian University, arguing it was properly gazetted and tasked to probe governance and financial management failures. SACU Push for Reform: King Mswati III returned from the SACU Heads of State summit in Cape Town, where leaders backed a new N$5 billion regional innovative funding mechanism and discussed customs revenue reform and industrialisation. Regional Policy on AI: The Southern Africa Social Security Stakeholders’ Forum, including Eswatini, discussed using AI in social protection while protecting personal data and document authenticity. Cross-border Tensions: Reports from South Africa’s anti-illegal immigration protests say some Emaswati tenants were evicted by landlords fearing unrest. Eswatini in International Cooperation: Taiwan’s Studycat donated 2,000 sets of educational software to Eswatini via a local partner, with support routed through the Deputy Prime Minister’s office and schools.

Regional Tech & Social Protection: Eswatini and neighbours at the Southern Africa Social Security Stakeholders Forum discussed using AI in social protection—while stressing data protection, document authenticity, and access tools like SMS/USSD for people without smartphones. SACU Economic Push: King Mswati III returned from the 9th SACU summit in Cape Town, where leaders backed trade and industrialisation reforms and agreed to set up a R5 billion regional innovative funding mechanism to support cross-border projects. Eswatini–Taiwan Links: Taiwan’s ICDF marked 30 years of foreign aid, with Eswatini’s minister highlighting women’s empowerment and microfinancing support; separately, Studycat donated 2,000 learning software sets to Eswatini schools. MTN Leadership Change: MTN Group appointed Jerry Soko as CEO of MTN Eswatini from 1 July 2026, saying he has restored momentum during his acting tenure. Immigration Tensions Spill Over: South Africa’s anti-illegal immigration protests are driving business closures and evictions of foreign nationals, while Eswatini students were urged to stay calm and continue studies. Church Accountability Call: A South African church leader urged churches to stop shielding pastors accused of serious crimes after the arrest of alleged serial rapist and killer Nkosingiphile Zwane.

MTN Leadership in Eswatini: MTN Group has appointed Jerry Soko as CEO of MTN Eswatini, effective 1 July 2026, after seven months as acting CEO, citing network resilience, customer focus and operational discipline. SACU Funding Push: SACU leaders agreed to set up a Regional Innovative Funding Mechanism with an initial N$5 billion capital to back cross-border industrial and infrastructure projects, with governance work now underway. King Mswati III Returns from SACU: The King came back from the 9th SACU summit in Cape Town, where leaders discussed trade, industrialisation and customs revenue reform, and he urged a more unified approach to regional integration. Immigration Tensions Spill Over: South Africa’s anti-illegal immigration protests are driving business closures and stricter border controls; some landlords in South Africa reportedly evicted Emaswati tenants over fears of unrest. Eswatini’s Legal/Compliance Signal: Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg says Eswatini’s gambling-related convictions strengthen the country’s anti-money laundering standing ahead of future FATF-style assessments. Regional Rights Debate: An anti-LGBT conference push is set to expand in 2027, with Eswatini named as a host for a continental edition. Local Tech Support: Studycat donated 2,000 sets of educational software to Eswatini via a Taiwan nonprofit, with distribution planned through the Deputy Prime Minister’s office and schools.

MTN Leadership: MTN Eswatini has appointed Jerry Soko as CEO effective 1 July 2026, confirming he has been acting CEO for seven months and is credited with restoring momentum through network resilience, customer focus and tighter cash management. SACU Politics & Economy: King Mswati III returned from the 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town, where leaders pushed trade, industrialisation and customs reform, and SACU heads agreed to set up a Regional Innovative Funding Mechanism with an initial N$5 billion for cross-border projects. Royal Diplomacy & Controversy: A new wave of scrutiny surrounds Wicknell Chivayo after he styled himself “Prince Wicknell” following a luncheon hosted by King Mswati III, adding fuel to ongoing debate over his regional political profile and Eswatini-linked diplomatic privileges. Immigration Pressure at Home: As South Africa’s June 30 deadline nears, Eswatini-linked travellers at the Oshoek border post report stricter questioning and shorter stays, with processing tightened on the South African side. Rights & Backlash: An anti-LGBT conference push is set to expand in 2027, with Eswatini named to host a later edition after plans announced in Ghana. Regional Cooperation: President Ilham Aliyev approved an MoU on public service cooperation between Azerbaijan and Eswatini’s information-communications ministry.

SACU Summit Funding Push: Heads of State at the 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town agreed to set up a Regional Innovative Funding Mechanism with an initial N$5 billion capital, drawn from the Common Revenue Pool, to back development projects across all SACU members from 2027/28 and 2028/29, alongside renewed focus on industrialisation and export competitiveness. King Mswati’s Reform Challenge: In his SACU address, King Mswati III urged the bloc to reform and deliver tangible results—jobs, investments, modernised borders and opened markets—warning citizens judge integration by outcomes, not plans. Eswatini Education Support: Studycat donated 2,000 sets of educational software to the Kingdom of Eswatini via a Taiwan-based nonprofit, with part of the package going through the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office and schools under the Ministry of Education and Training. June 30 Immigration Fallout at Oshoek: As South Africa’s June 30 deadline nears, travellers crossing at Oshoek report stricter questioning, shorter stays and long queues, while Eswatini-side processing remains faster. Fuel Price Relief Hinted: Eswatini’s energy minister said easing Middle East tensions could bring fuel price declines, stressing the country’s limited strategic storage capacity. TB Diagnostics Breakthrough: Local researchers reported improved detection of drug-resistant TB strains using advanced sequencing methods, highlighting missed rifampicin-resistant cases and potential gains for treatment accuracy.

Royal Diplomacy & Controversy: King Mswati III praised South Africa’s hospitality to Emaswati students in Cape Town, urging calm as anti-immigration tensions rise. Cross-Border Immigration Pressure: After South Africa’s June 30 deadline, travellers from Eswatini at Oshoek Border Post report tougher questioning, shorter stays, and long queues—sparking repeat trips to extend stamps. SACU Industrial Push: At the 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town, leaders backed a R5 billion regional development fund to finance cross-border industrial and infrastructure projects, with Eswatini among beneficiaries. Eswatini’s Diplomatic Passport Storm: Public outrage continues over Wicknell Chivayo receiving Eswatini citizenship and a diplomatic passport after a royal meeting, with critics questioning the move amid ongoing allegations around his wealth. Fuel Price Watch: Eswatini’s energy minister hinted fuel prices may drop after Middle East tensions eased, citing talks with suppliers and the need for a strategic oil reserve. Anti-Money Laundering Signal: Eswatini finance minister Neal Rijkenberg said gambling convictions strengthen the country’s compliance standing ahead of FATF-style assessments. Regional Sovereignty Tension: Taiwan’s tense relationship with Eswatini drew renewed concern after China criticised the kingdom’s ties.

SACU Summit Momentum: Southern African Customs Union leaders wrapped up the 9th Summit in Cape Town, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging member states to strengthen regional integration as no country can prosper alone amid shifting trade, technology and supply chains. Regional Reform Mandate: SACU gave its new Executive Secretary, Dumsani Masilela, a mandate to drive reforms under the “re-imagined SACU Agenda,” including extending the strategic plan and pushing industrialisation through regional value chains. Eswatini’s Energy Governance: South Africa’s energy minister appointed Ria Govender as acting chairperson of Nersa, following the resignation of Thembani Bukula for health reasons. Eswatini-Linked Diplomatic Controversy: Eswatini honoured Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo with a diplomatic passport and citizenship after a royal meeting with King Mswati III, triggering public backlash. Cross-Border Pressure at Oshoek: As South Africa’s June 30 immigration deadline nears, travellers crossing from Eswatini report stricter questioning, shorter stays and long queues at Oshoek Border Post. Domestic Violence Reporting Gap (Manzini): Manzini police say only four men reported domestic violence and one reported rape since the start of the year, with officers urging more reporting. Fuel Price Watch: Eswatini’s energy minister hinted fuel prices may drop after easing Middle East tensions and talks with suppliers.

SACU Summit Momentum: Leaders wrapped up the 9th Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State meeting in Cape Town, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging members to stop trying to prosper alone and push stronger regional integration as trade, technology and supply chains shift. Regional Industrial Push: SACU Executive Secretary Dumsani Masilela was given a mandate to drive reforms under the “re-imagined SACU Agenda,” including extending the strategic plan and pushing industrialisation through regional value chains and private-sector involvement. Eswatini’s Role in the Bloc: Eswatini’s King Mswati III attended, while Botswana’s incoming chair Advocate Duma Boko highlighted renewed purpose and simpler customs procedures to boost trade across the union. Fuel Price Watch: Eswatini’s energy minister hinted fuel prices could drop after Middle East tensions eased, pointing to government talks with suppliers and the need for a strategic oil reserve. Controversial Royal Honours: Eswatini’s government confirmed it granted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo citizenship and a diplomatic passport after a private visit to King Mswati III—sparking public backlash and renewed questions about his past dealings. Domestic Violence Reporting Gap (Manzini): Manzini police reported only four men filed domestic violence cases and just one man reported rape by a woman since the year began, with officers saying male victims often stay silent. Cross-Border Road Safety: South Africa’s deputy transport minister joined cross-border checks at Pongola to improve hazardous goods monitoring and crack down on illegal operations involving Eswatini and other neighbours.

SACU Summit Politics: Leaders wrapped up the 9th Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State summit in Cape Town, with Eswatini’s King Mswati III among those pushing a “re-imagined” agenda focused on regional value chains, industrialisation, customs modernisation and trade facilitation. Regional Integration Push: South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa told SACU members no country can prosper alone amid shifting trade patterns and supply-chain shocks, urging stronger cooperation to build resilience. SACU Leadership Shift: Botswana’s President Duma Boko, incoming SACU chair, said the monarch’s role is among the hardest jobs, after noting his own visit to King Mswati III. Eswatini Diplomatic Controversy: Eswatini granted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo citizenship and a diplomatic passport after a royal meeting, sparking public backlash. Fuel Cost Watch: An Eswatini minister hinted fuel prices may drop as Middle East tensions ease and talks with suppliers continue. Youth & Social Strain: Eswatini’s State of the Youth Report 2026 flags heavy alcohol use and rising youth crime linked to poverty, unemployment and weakened family support.

SACU Summit Momentum: Leaders wrapped up the 9th Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State meeting in Cape Town, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging member states to deepen regional integration to withstand global economic shocks, while SACU’s Executive Secretary Dumsani Masilela pushed industrialisation and stronger private-sector involvement. Chair Transition: Botswana’s President Duma Boko said the bloc’s next phase under Botswana’s 2026/27 SACU chair will focus on renewed purpose, trade facilitation, and simplifying customs to unlock growth across the union. Eswatini Governance & Economy: Eswatini’s Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs appointed the first board for the Ezulwini Palazzo, framing it as a governance step to boost conferences, jobs, and investment. Fuel Relief Hint: Energy Minister Prince Lonkhokhela suggested fuel prices could drop in coming months after easing Middle East tensions and talks with suppliers, while warning Eswatini’s reserve capacity covers only about one to two days. Youth Pressure Points: Eswatini’s State of the Youth Report 2026 flags 56% youth unemployment and rising alcohol abuse, linking social strain to weakened family structures, poverty, and limited opportunities. Controversy at Home: In a separate political-social storm, Wicknell Chivayo defended his R160 million Clifton mansion valuation amid claims of SARS scrutiny and a public clash with activist Rutendo Matinyarare.

SACU Summit Wrap: Southern African Customs Union leaders concluded the 9th Heads of State and Government summit in Cape Town, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging deeper regional integration so no country “can prosper alone” amid shifting trade, technology and supply chains. SACU Reform Mandate: The summit backed reforms under the “re-imagined SACU Agenda,” extending the Strategic Plan to 2028/29 and giving incoming Executive Secretary Dumsani Masilela a mandate to drive implementation, including a regional innovative funding mechanism and stronger trade facilitation. Eswatini-US Ties: King Mswati III told the US Embassy’s Independence Day celebrations that Eswatini will stay alongside Washington “through whatever comes next,” framing the relationship as long-standing cooperation beyond diplomacy. Court Order on LGBT Group: Eswatini’s Supreme Court ordered the government to officially recognize and register ESGM, giving authorities 60 days to comply—another flashpoint in the kingdom’s rights and governance debate. Youth Pressure Points: Eswatini’s State of the Youth Report 2026 flags youth unemployment at 56% and rising social strain, including heavy alcohol use and growing youth crime risks. Controversial Royal Honours: Wicknell Chivayo’s Eswatini citizenship and diplomatic passport after a meeting with King Mswati III sparked public outrage over the honours granted to a widely disputed businessman.

SACU Summit Push: President Cyril Ramaphosa opened the 9th SACU Heads of State summit in Cape Town, urging deeper regional integration to tackle tariff disputes, supply-chain shocks and slower growth, with Eswatini among the key member states. Anti-Corruption Overhaul: SADC anti-corruption chiefs adopted reforms to strengthen agencies’ independence and speed up e-procurement to cut discretion and corruption. Eswatini-US Ties: King Mswati III reaffirmed Eswatini’s long partnership with the United States during the US Independence Day celebrations, amid renewed scrutiny over deportation and health cooperation. Royal Honours Controversy: Eswatini’s government says King Mswati hosted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and granted him citizenship and a diplomatic passport, triggering public backlash. LGBT Rights Court Order: Eswatini’s Supreme Court ordered the state to officially recognize and register ESGM, giving government 60 days to comply. Youth Pressure Points: Eswatini’s State of the Youth Report 2026 flags 56% youth unemployment and rising alcohol abuse, linking social strain to weakened family support and limited opportunities. Cross-Border Road Safety: South Africa’s Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa is set to inspect Golela border operations and promote safer hazardous-goods transport with enforcement focus. Ezulwini Palazzo Governance: Tourism Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane appointed the first Ezulwini Palazzo board, aiming to improve oversight and boost conference and business tourism. Regional Migration Tensions: South Africa-linked anti-immigration enforcement is spilling into workplaces, with Emaswati workers reportedly told to stay home while consulates assess concerns.

SACU Summit Focus: Eswatini’s President Nandi-Ndaitwah is set to attend the 9th Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State summit in Cape Town on 26 June, with leaders expected to review the SACU Strategic Plan (2022–2027) and push industrialisation, customs modernisation, trade facilitation and AfCFTA-linked opportunities. Regional Transport & Border Safety: South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa will visit the Golela Border Post near Pongola for the Cross-Alive Road Safety Campaign, targeting safer movement of people and goods, especially hazardous cargo, and stepping up enforcement against illegal cross-border operations. Youth & Social Strain: Eswatini’s State of the Youth Report 2026 flags youth unemployment at 56% and links rising youth crime and substance abuse to weakened family support, poverty and limited opportunities. LGBT Rights Court Order: Eswatini’s Supreme Court has ordered the government to officially recognise and register the LGBT advocacy group ESGM, giving authorities 60 days to comply. Energy Investment Controversy: Wicknell Chivayo’s R3 billion solar project (300MW) was announced after a royal meeting with King Mswati III, alongside citizenship and a diplomatic passport—sparking public backlash. Governance & Inclusion: Ezulwini Palazzo’s first board has been appointed, signalling a new governance push for the tourism and conference investment.

SACU Summit Focus: Eswatini’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to attend the 9th Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State Summit in Cape Town on 26 June, where leaders will review the 2022–2027 SACU Strategic Plan and push priorities like industrialisation, customs modernisation, trade facilitation, investment promotion and AfCFTA-linked opportunities. Regional Security: SADC reaffirmed its peace and stability agenda after an Extraordinary Summit on Madagascar and the DRC, highlighting shuttle diplomacy and reconciliation efforts. LGBT Rights Clash: Eswatini’s Supreme Court ordered the government to officially recognize and register the LGBT advocacy group ESGM, giving authorities 60 days to comply—raising fresh questions about whether the state will follow the ruling. Controversial Citizenship & Energy Deal: Wicknell Chivayo’s Eswatini citizenship and diplomatic passport have sparked outrage, alongside a reported R3 billion commitment toward a 300MW solar project. Courtroom Fallout: In Uganda, police opened a land-fraud probe into former Eswatini honorary consul Quilino Bamwine over Shs 1.3 billion allegations. Justice and Identity: DNA tests in Uganda confirmed only 4 of 25 people claiming to be late Paul Job Kafeero’s children are biologically related. Cross-Border Pressure: South Africa-linked reports say Emaswati factory workers were urged to stay home amid rising anti-immigration pressure ahead of June 30.

China-Africa Trade Politics: China’s zero-tariff offer to 53 African countries leaves Eswatini out, with the exclusion tied to its continued diplomatic ties with Taiwan—raising questions about how “open” trade perks are shaped by political alignment. Agriculture Innovation Push: Eswatini launched the Solutions Marketplace 2026 to back home-grown tech for climate resilience, post-harvest losses and value addition, spotlighting projects like UNESWA’s Nutri Plum fertiliser. Land Fraud Probe: Uganda Police opened a case against former Eswatini honorary consul Quilino Bamwine over alleged Shs 1.3bn land fraud in Kampala, with Eswatini revoking his consul role and Uganda saying he lacks diplomatic immunity. SACU Summit in Focus: South Africa hosts the 9th SACU Heads of State summit on 26 June, with Eswatini among members set to review the SACU Strategic Plan and push industrial and trade integration. Controversial Royal Honours: Public outrage grows after King Mswati III granted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo citizenship and a diplomatic passport, alongside claims of a major solar investment. Regional Security Commitments: SADC reaffirmed support for peace efforts in Madagascar and the DRC, including plans for a goodwill mission to assess security after troop withdrawals. Civic Space at Court: Eswatini’s LGBTI group ESGM continues its legal fight for non-profit registration after rejection based on “customary law,” framing it as a broader battle for freedom of association. ENPF Governance Pressure: Former labour minister Lutfo Dlamini appeared before an Eswatini House of Assembly select committee investigating the ENPF board impasse.

Royal Controversy: Eswatini’s government says King Mswati III hosted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo at Lozitha Royal Palace, granting him citizenship and a diplomatic passport—sparking public outrage over the honours despite past allegations. Energy Deal: The same visit is tied to Chivayo’s pledged R3 billion for a 300MW solar project, positioned as an independent power producer investment to boost Eswatini’s energy security. Regional Trade Talks: South Africa hosts the 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town this week, with leaders set to review the SACU Strategic Plan and push industrialisation, value chains and trade facilitation. SADC Security Focus: SADC reaffirmed support for peace efforts in Madagascar and the DRC, backing a goodwill mission for security assessment and urging an inclusive Madagascar transition to elections. Civic Space in Court: Eswatini’s LGBTI group ESGM says its non-profit registration fight continues after earlier rejections based on “customary law” grounds. Governance Pressure: Former ENPF board-related minister Lutfo Dlamini appeared before an Eswatini House of Assembly select committee probing the fund’s dysfunction. Regulating International Events: EEMPA says anyone bringing an international act to Eswatini must first get a permit to ensure safety and proper coordination. Disability Inclusion: Zimbabwe’s National Disability Expo 2026 opens in Masvingo with President Mnangagwa as guest of honour, alongside an empowerment package for persons with disabilities.