Swaziland Striving For Freedom Vol 37 Jan To Mar 2020

Swaziland: Striving for Freedom
As seen through the pages of Swazi Media Commentary

Vol. 37. January – March 2020
Compiled by
Richard Rooney
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SWAZILAND: STRIVNG FOR FREEDOM
INTRODUCTION
Although there were no reported deaths and only nine reported cases of coronavirus
(COVID-19) by the end of March, King Mswati III, the absolute monarch of Swaziland
(eSwatini) declared a state of emergency.
Many civil liberties were suspended; school, colleges and universities were closed
indefinitely. Many businesses were forced to close and severe travel bans were placed on
people. Gatherings, including attendance at churches and other places of worship, were
curtailed.
Almost immediately, members of the police, army and other security forces were beating and
intimidating ordinary civilians. Some businesses reported they also demanded bribes to allow
them to stay open.
The response to the coronavirus was the main topic in the period January to March 2020 and
contained in Swaziland: Striving for Freedom, volume 37, a compilation of reports posted
on the Swazi Media Commentary website.
Elsewhere, even before coronavirus struck, the Swaziland economy continued in freefall. In
the annual budget spending on internal security was increased as, ‘Support to our security
forces as we pursue economic stability and growth in the country.’
As in previous years, the Auditor General highlighted shortcomings in the way government
departments recorded their spending, with billions of emalangeni not properly accounted for.
The education sector continued in crisis as government ran out of money. Many pupils were
unable to attend primary school because the government did not pay fees.
King Mswati continued to exert his power over his subjects. University lecturers were forced
to weed his fields; his chief of police threatened social media users with the wrath of the law
if they dared to criticise the king; in February the King told his parliament to ignore calls for
democracy and to stick with him.
Swazi Media Commentary is published online, updated most weekdays. It is operated entirely
by volunteers and receives no financial backing from any organisation. It is devoted to
providing information and commentary in support of human rights in Swaziland.
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CONTENTS
1 Coronavirus 3
2 King Mswati III 35
3 LGBTI 46
4 Police 48
5 Budget, public finances 53
6 Media 58
7 China & Taiwan 63
8 Schools 67
9 Women 71
10 And the rest … 73
About the editor 80
Other publications 81
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1 CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
Swaziland closes informal border crossings as coronavirus strikes South Africa

10 March 2020
The Prime Minister of Swaziland (eSwatini) has announced all informal border crossings
with South Africa will be closed in an attempt to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
The crossings are used every day by people who live in Swaziland and go to South Africa for
schooling, work, trading or to shop.
PM Ambrose Dlamini made the announcement after the first case of coronavirus was
reported in South Africa. As of Tuesday 10 March 2020 no cases had been reported in
Swaziland itself.
The Times of eSwatini reported the closure of the borders would affect thousands of people
who regularly crossed. It said many people who lived in the area did not know that Swaziland
and South Africa were two separate countries.
Swaziland, which is ruled by King Mswati III as an absolute monarch, was left out of the list
of countries the World Health Organisation to benefit from personal protective equipment
such as masks and gloves being distributed to poor countries.
The Swazi Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi told media the exclusion was because eSwatini
was not considered to be a poor country.
In Swaziland nearly seven in ten of the estimated 1.3 million people live in abject poverty.
Meanwhile, the King and the royal family live in luxury. The King has 13 palaces and two
private jet aircraft. In November 2019 he purchased between 13 and 15 Rolls Royce cars for
himself and members of his family at an estimated cost of US$4 million.
Swaziland also bought him 126 BMW cars and motorbikes to escort the Royal family around
the kingdom.
These purchases prompted Lisa Peterson, the United States Ambassador to Swaziland to
speculate that in future the US might not be keen to give Swaziland development aid.
On Monday (9 March 2020) the Swazi House of Assembly approved a budget of E48 million
towards the cost of tackling the coronavirus. The Ministry of Finance had asked for E100
million. Swaziland is broke and cannot pay its suppliers. Recently a number of government
offices had electricity disconnected because bills were unpaid.
The government also owes millions of emalangeni to medical suppliers and medicines of all
types have run out or are in short supply in public hospitals.
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The President of the Swaziland Nurses Association Bheki Mamba has advised health workers
not to deal with patients who have the coronavirus. The Saturday Observer newspaper in
Swaziland reported Mamba said government had not identified quarantine centres and had no
strategy in place to deal with the virus. He added that health workers had not been trained to
deal with the virus.
He added this posed a great danger to the lives of health workers.
See also
Swaziland King buys himself fleet of 15 Rolls-Royce cars but there’s no money for public
ambulances
Swaziland cancer patients refused treatment because Govt. has not paid hospital bills
More deaths in Swaziland as govt fails to pay medicine suppliers
Swazi Royals spend, spend, spend
Swaziland teachers’ union calls for all schools, colleges and universities to close in wake
of coronavirus
13 March 2020
The Swaziland National Association of Teachers has urged the Swazi government to
temporarily close all schools, colleges and universities while a strategy is found to deal with
the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement widely circulated on social media on Thursday (12 March 2020) the trade
union said it was worried ‘at the lack of preparedness on the part of the Government to fight
against the virus’.
It predicted many deaths unless the government took action.
It said, ‘The SNAT is worried about the fact that no measures have been put to fight back this
spectre, particularly in public places such as towns, cities and schools. Precautionary
measures have not been adequately put in place and that is a serious cause for concern.’
As of 13 March 2020 no confirmed cases of coronavirus had been reported in Swaziland

(eSwatini) but at least two people were being tested. The number of confirmed cases in
neighbouring South Africa is growing.
The SNAT statement added, ‘Our weak health systems surely lack the prerequisite capacity
to deal with such, should the deadly virus make a landfall within our borders. The
government, until now, has not identified even a single fully-capacitated hospital that is ready
to address such cases, should they be confirmed.’
It called on the government to declare a national disaster. ‘Certain strategies must be put in
place: such as temporary closure of schools, colleges and universities whilst adaptation and
mitigation strategies are being considered.’
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Separately, on Thursday Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi told the Swaziland Senate that
everyone was at ‘high risk’.
She said the government was investigating what to do with big events where a large number
of people will be present.
She said, ‘We also have to decide what we are going to do with schools, are we going to
close them or not.’ The Swazi cabinet was due to meet on Thursday evening.
Meanwhile, the Times of eSwatini reported on Friday there were calls for government to
consider banning foreign nationals from entering the kingdom and to shut down the ports of
entry to minimise the risk of spreading coronavirus.
These were submissions made by the National Disaster Management Agency stakeholders
who included the health, water and sanitation, education and agriculture food security
sectors.
Calls for ban on public gatherings and border closure as Swaziland hit by coronavirus
15 March 2020
Calls are growing in Swaziland (eSwatini) for the borders to be shut, mass gatherings banned
and schools to be closed as the coronavirus spreads in the kingdom.
Swaziland had one confirmed case as of Sunday (15 March 2020).
Submissions made by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) stakeholders said
people travelled into neighbouring South Africa daily and this might encourage the spread of
the virus.
Sicelile Zwane, of the National Emergency Response Council on HIV and AIDS (NERCHA),
said the Ministry of Health should to issue a statement on public gatherings.
The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) a vocal critic of the government
stepped up its calls for action. It had previously called for a temporary closure of all schools,
colleges and universities and now wants to see all public gatherings such as community
meetings, nightclubs, gyms, church services such as the national Easter services, and
celebrations such as the upcoming King’s birthday, stopped indefinitely.
In a statement widely circulated on social media it also called for all borders and points of
entry such as the King Mswati III Airport closed down.
It added, ‘The Government must engage in a vigorous activity of distributing masks,

sanitisers and other protective gear to Swazi citizens, particularly in public places such as
towns, cities, malls and churches. This will enhance both adaptation and mitigation strategies.
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‘All our health centres should be capacitated to a level at which they would be able to admit
and deal with coronavirus cases.’
It added, ‘Our health practitioners must be adequately capacitated as well to handle such
novel cases.’
Meanwhile the Swazi Prime Minister Ambrose Dlamini at a press conference urged people
not to hold large gatherings but he did not issue a ban on them. Sports events and the
Bushfire Festival in Swaziland have already been postponed.
He announced an external travel ban for politicians and government officials for ‘the next
couple of weeks’.
Swaziland registered its first coronavirus case on Friday (13 March 2020.) It was a 33-year
old woman who was said to have returned from the United States at the end of February and
then went to Lesotho. She returned to Swaziland on 7 March.
She was admitted to Lubombo Referral Hospital where she was said to be in a stable
condition.
Lubombo is one of only two facilities in Swaziland that have been identified to quarantine
patients. Health workers at the hospital protested that they had not been equipped to deal with
coronavirus patients.
Bheki Mamba, president of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU), said the
hospital itself was not ready to receive the patient and the room that was identified as the
place where patients would be quarantined did not even have a bed. Nurses had no protective
clothing.
He told the Times Sunday newspaper in Swaziland, ‘Everything is now being done hurriedly.
The room is just not proper to accommodate someone who is being quarantined because it
doesn’t have its own toilet yet the patient should do everything in isolation to avoid him
getting into contact with other people.’
The Times reported, ‘Mamba stated that it would be difficult for health care workers to
respond to this case because of the lack of equipment and medical supplies.’
Mamba said, ‘We’ve spoken many times about the issue of equipment and staff shortage but
government is failing to cooperate with us to address the challenges of staff, equipment and
staff.’ He added his union met with government for the first on Friday.
Swaziland nurses plan protest march over lack of coronavirus equipment

16 March 2020
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Nurses in Swaziland (eSwatini) plan to march on the Ministry of Health to protest at the lack
of protective clothing and other equipment to tackle the coronavirus crisis.
Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union President Bheki Mamba said the kingdom had minimal
items in health facilities. He said even the little protective clothing available was old and was
left over from the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus outbreak in 2009.
Mamba accused the Swazi Government of not telling the truth about the level of supplies
available.
Nurses intend to march on Tuesday (17 March 2020).
Swaziland has only one confirmed case of coronavirus as of 16 March 2020. Two centres are
being prepared to be used to quarantine patients as the virus spreads. The known case is at
Lubombo Referral Hospital.
Mamba said protective clothing was not available for all staff at the hospital.
Even before coronavirus struck Swaziland’s public health service was in meltdown. The
government which is not elected but handpicked by absolute monarch King Mswati III had
run the economy into the ground. Medicine and equipment was in short supply because bills
to suppliers had been left unpaid.
Following a visit to Swaziland in early 2019 the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported
there were not enough doctors, nurses and support staff. Its report stated, ‘The country has
inadequate health workforce in both numbers and skills. The distribution of health workforce
is also skewed in favour of urban areas with some rural health facilities having staffing gaps.
Other health workforce challenges include; retention of skilled staff due to frequent rotation
of workers especially nurses; and government absorption of donor funded positions.’
WHO added, ‘The distribution of health facilities and access to essential health services
create inequities between rural and urban populations.’
Prior to the WHO visit there were reports of deaths caused by lack of medicines. At least
three patients using the Nhlangano Health Centre were said to have died because they could
not get drugs to control their blood pressure.
There have been reports across Swaziland that hospitals cannot afford to feed patients and
vital medicines have run out.
In December 2018 the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Mbabane Government Hospital was
reported to be close to shut-down because equipment was not being maintained. People were
dying because of this, it was reported.
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In September 2018 it was reported at least six children in Swaziland had died from diarrhoea
and many more were sick because the government was broke and could not pay for vaccines.
It would cost US$6 for the vaccine to immunise a child.
In June 2018 it was revealed there were only 12 working public ambulances in the whole of
Swaziland because the government failed to maintain them. It had bought no new ambulances
since 2013.
See also
Swaziland health crisis getting worse as budgets cut. Rural areas most affected
More deaths in Swaziland as government fails to pay medicine suppliers
Report: patients die as Swaziland government hospital runs out of cash
Medicine shortage: five die
Swaziland teachers and Govt argue over whether schools should close during
coronavirus outbreak
17 March 2020
Teachers and the government in Swaziland (eSwatini) are arguing about closing schools
during the coronavirus crisis.
The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) told its members not to teach but
the Minister of Education later said SNAT had no authority to close schools.
At a press conference on Monday (16 March 2020) SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini said
the Occupational Safety and Health allowed staff to remove themselves from danger when
they had a justifiable reason to believe they were in imminent and serious risk within the
workplace.
He added the Swazi Government was not doing enough to combat coronavirus.
Later, Lady Howard Mabuza, the Minister of Education and Training, told the Swaziland
News, an online newspaper, that SNAT had no authority to order school closures. She said,
‘The law they are using does not allow them to just leave the workplace and shut down
schools, they have a legal obligation to engage the employer first. For now, we appeal for
claim, Prime Minister will issue a statement soon on the next step.’
Responding, Mbongwa Dlamini said its members would not report for duty. ‘The way
government is handling this issue suggests that she doesn’t care with lives of our members
and we have a duty to protect them,’ he said.
Separately, Prime Minister Ambrose Dlamini was criticised in the House of Assembly for ‘its
deafening silence’ over the coronavirus pandemic.
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The Times of eSwatini reported members wanted to know if the birthday celebrations of
absolute monarch King Mswati III would still take place in April and whether Easter services
were going to be held.
The eSwatini Observer reported the Prime Minister was expected to make a statement on
Tuesday (17 March 2020).
Meanwhile, neighbouring South Africa has declared a state of emergency and closed many
border posts, including six of the 11 it has with Swaziland. Swaziland is a landlocked
kingdom surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique.
As of 16 March 2020 there had been only one reported confirmed case of coronavirus in
Swaziland.
Swaziland King declares state of emergency over coronavirus. Schools closed, foreign
travel suspended
17 March 2020
King Mswati III the absolute monarch of Swaziland (eSwatini) has declared a national
emergency in response to the coronavirus crisis.
Schools, colleges and universities will close immediately and indefinitely. All public and
private gatherings of 50 or more people including conferences, funerals, weddings,
entertainment and sporting activities are suspended until further notice.
Foreign nationals from high-risk coronavirus countries will be restricted from entering the
kingdom. Swazi residents returning from high-risk countries will be subjected to screening
and are required to self-isolate for 14 days. Non-essential travel to all other countries is
suspended for all Swaziland subjects.
The measures were announced by Prime Minister Ambrose Dlamini on Tuesday (17 March
2020).
Good Friday and Easter services are suspended as are celebrations of the King’s birthday in
April and Army Day.
Also visitations to hospitals will be restricted and visits to correctional facilities suspended
altogether.
The state of emergency will be in place for at least two months.
As of 17 March 2020 only one person in Swaziland has been diagnosed with the virus.
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GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF ESWATINI
DECLARATION OF NATIONAL EMERGENCY IN

RESPONSE TO CORONAVIRUS
The Kingdom of Eswatini, like the rest of the World, is confronted by a stubborn
pandemic that threatens the health and wellbeing of our Nation as it relentlessly spreads
across the Globe at an alarming rate. While Eswatini has one confirmed COVID-19 case
at this moment, we are seized with the responsibility to protect our citizens from a
scourge which knows no boundaries and continues to unfold in an unprecedented
manner and speed.
I have been commanded by His Majesty King Mswati III and Ingwenyama to invoke
section 29 of the Disaster Management Act 2006, having assessed the magnitude and
severity of the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic confirmed world over,
to declare a State of Emergency in the Kingdom of Eswatini with immediate effect for a
period not exceeding two (2) months.
As a result of this declaration, His Majesty has further commanded Government to

introduce the following measures:
• Army day is suspended.
• Good Friday and Easter Services suspended
• King’s Birthday celebration is cancelled. The budget set aside for the King’s birthday
celebration will be re-directed to the fight against the Coronavirus pandemic.
• Schools and Tertiary Institutions should be closed with immediate effect until further
notice. The school calendar will be adjusted accordingly.
• Government and Parliament are to ensure that sufficient funds are made available
specifically for the fight against COVID-19.
• Government is tasked to work in collaboration with Regional Administrators, Chiefs,
traditional authorities and all relevant sectors to upscale the Preparedness and
Response plan in communities. Security forces will be part of the COVID-19 National
Emergency Response.
• A socio economic analysis on the impact of this pandemic on business will be
undertaken.
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The King has further commanded Government to ensure that all emaSwati students
abroad and citizens in the diaspora are protect
ted and safe from the pandemic.
The following measures will also be implemented with immediate effect;
Travel
• Foreign nationals coming from COVID-19 high risk countries will be restricted from
entering the country until further notice. Visas to enter Eswatini already issued to citizens
of high risk countries will be revoked from 20 March 2020.
• Residents/Citizens returning from high risk countries will be subjected to intensive
screening and are required to self isolate for a mandatory 14 days.
• Non essential travel to all other countries is suspended for all citizens.
• Citizens are encouraged to minimize non essential local travel.
Social Distancing
• All public and private gatherings attracting 50 or more people are suspended until
further notice. These include conferences, funerals, weddings, entertainment, sporting
activities, etc.
• Visitation to hospitals is restricted
• Visits to Correctional Services facilities are suspended.
Government, Parastatals and Companies, including Supermarkets, Shopping Centres

and all entities are urged to bolster hygiene control and to keep their workplaces safe for
both workers and customers.
Prevention
It is important to remind the public to follow prevention measures to mitigate the spread
of the virus both at home and at work. These include:
• Keep the home environment clean and safe. Disinfect all high touch surfaces regularly
and ensure proper ventilation.
• Stop shaking hands and use other none touch methods of greeting.
• Maintain a distance of at least 1 metre from each other.
• Wash hands regularly with running water and soap or use alcohol based sanitisers
• Create habits and reminders to avoid touching your face (mouth, nose, eyes) and
cover coughs and sneezes.
• Take care of the vulnerable, especially senior citizens and those with underlying
respiratory conditions who are more susceptible to the coronavirus infection.
• If you experience flu like symptoms (fever, difficulty breathing, cough, high
temperature) visit your nearest health centre facility or call the Emergency Medical
Services Toll free line 977.
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Government will further strengthen monitoring, detection, testing and screening in all
ports of entry including informal border crossings as well as intensify border patrols.
We will activate the Unit of Volunteers providing Community Based Disaster Risk
Management support at community-based level to ensure educational messages reach
all EmaSwati in their communities.
In order to strengthen operational readiness to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak, the

Government, WHO and partners have developed a contingency plan. Its implementation
therefore requires a multisectoral approach. Government continues to upgrade this plan
as the situation evolves with new developments.
Activities undertaken
• On surveillance and response the Ministry of health has a toll free line 977 designated
for reporting alerts of COVID-19.
• Generic messages have been adapted and disseminated through radio, posters, and
leaflets. Radio programs and educative talk shows conducted through EBIS, VOC, ETV
on an on-going basis. The Ministry of Health also monitors rumours and misinformation
linked to COVID-19 and corrective public information circulated.
• Screening of travellers in Ports of entry continues on a daily basis as well as follow up
to those at high risk. One individual who came from Italy is on quarantine and has shown
no symptoms of COVID-19.
• The one positive case is managed well. Contact tracing and tests are being conducted.
• The Ministry of Health continues to train more responders at Public health and health
facility levels.
Diagnostic capacity
Government is working with WHO and other partners to build capacity for detection and
diagnosis of coronavirus locally. A plan has been drawn and costed to install a BSL level
3 influenza laboratory at the Lubombo Referral Hospital. WHO has supported the
country with technical assistance, laboratory equipment and diagnostic kits in this
regard.
Once again may I assure the Nation that Government will be vigilant in implementing our
emergency response plans supported by all Emaswati and our international partners, as
we tackle this emerging pandemic with the hope it will soon be behind us.
BAYETHE WENA WAPHAKATHI
Ambrose Mandvulo Dlamini

PRIME MINISTER
17 March 2020
Swaziland nurses refuse to treat patients until they get protective equipment
18 March 2020
Nurses in Swaziland (eSwatini) will refuse to treat patients until the government supplies
them with protective clothing. They fear they might catch the coronavirus.
Members of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union marched on the Swazi Ministry of
Health to deliver a petition.
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They say there is no suitable equipment available and want gloves, masks, soap, sanitizers
and gowns. They added some hospitals did not even have running water.
The march on Tuesday (17 March 2020) came on the same day the kingdom’s absolute
monarch King Mswati III declared a state of emergency. Schools, colleges and universities
will close indefinitely and gatherings of 50 people or more are banned. There are also travel
restrictions.
Separately, nurses at the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital (RFM) reportedly refused to treat
patients on Monday.
The Swaziland News, an online newspaper, reported they were demanding protective
clothing. It said some patients had to return home without being treated.
According to a report in 2019 from the World Health Organisation there were not enough
doctors, nurses and support staff in Swaziland. It stated the kingdom had an inadequate health
workforce in both numbers and skills.
Swaziland hospital thrown into confusion as suspected coronavirus patient admitted

19 March 2020
The Mbabane Government Hospital in Swaziland (eSwatini) was thrown into confusion when
a patient suspected of having the coronavirus was admitted.
Nurses and other health workers at the hospital did not have protective clothing and refused
to treat the patient.
Other patients and visitors ran for cover, according to a report in the Swaziland News, an
online newspaper. Kitchen staff also withdrew themselves so patients had nothing to eat for
most of the day, the Times of eSwatini reported.
It happened on Tuesday night (17 March 2020) and during Wednesday, the Times reported.
All types of patient, including those needing routine checks were abandoned.
It reported, ‘Some of the people looking after their relatives in the ward found themselves
assuming the duties of nurses as they had to assist most of the patients with going to the rest
rooms, among other things.’
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Patients and nurses run for cover at Mbabane Hospital. Picture: Swaziland News
Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU) President Bheki Mamba told the Times
nurses feared for their lives. ‘He said he was informed by the medical personnel from the
Mbabane Government Hospital that doctors who admitted the patient had high suspicions that
she had contracted COVID-19 [coronavirus] but continued to admit her,’ it added.
The Times reported, ‘The president said when getting the explanation, it became apparent that
the hospital had not prepared any isolation for suspected cases. “It shows that the hospital
was not ready for receiving such a patient,” said Mamba.’
It added, ‘Mamba said due to the seriousness of the matter, the healthcare workers then
resolved to down tools as there was no protective equipment including gloves, masks,
sanitizers or anything else that could prevent them from being exposed to infection.’
The Times reported, ‘Mamba said healthcare workers therefore feared for their lives and
could not work without protective equipment.’
Director of Health Services, Dr Vusi Magagula, said he was awaiting hospital management to
give him a full report before he would comment.
King Mswati III, the absolute monarch of Swaziland, declared a national emergency on
Tuesday. Schools, colleges and universities are closed indefinitely and gatherings of 50 or
more people are banned. Travel restrictions are in place.
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On Wednesday the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) said it would be checking to make
sure people complied with the orders.
In a statement it also said it would check on businesses to make sure they were following
guidelines to stop the spread of the virus. ‘Police will be constantly checking business centres
to ensure that there is strict compliance,’ the statement read in part.
Elsewhere, the Swaziland Local Transport Association National Chairman Mandla Dlamini
urged public transport providers to disinfect vehicles and the hands of every passenger.
Coronavirus: Swaziland hospitals in crisis, PM forms emergency task groups

20 March 2020
Hospitals across Swaziland (eSwatini) were in crisis as nurses and healthcare workers were
still without protective clothing and equipment so they could treat patients during the
coronavirus pandemic.
At least four public hospitals stopped treating patients on Thursday (19 March 2020).
Nurses and others are refusing to work until they get protective equipment such as face masks
and gowns. They say their lives are being put at risk.
The four hospitals affected were Mankayane, Mkhuzeni, Raleigh Fitkin Memorial and
Mbabane Government Hospital.
On Tuesday nurses marched on the Ministry of Health to deliver a petition demanding they
be given protective equipment.
Meanwhile the Swazi Prime Minister Ambrose Dlamini announced the formation of a
number of committees to tackle the coronavirus crisis. A state of emergency has already been
announced and gatherings of more than 50 people are banned. School, colleges and
universities are closed and travel restrictions are in place.
PRIME MINISTER’S STATEMENT
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NATIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATION STRUCTURES
Following the command by His Majesty King Mswati III and Ingwenyama to declare the
outbreak of coronavirus as a National Emergency, Government has extensively consulted
to roll out the relevant structures that will implement the National Emergency Plan. These
include a National Emergency Management Committee (Cabinet sub-committee) that will
be chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and a National Emergency Task team that will
operationalise the implementation of the Response plans.
Members of the National Emergency Management Committee are the following;
1. Deputy Prime Minister – Chairman

2. Minister of Public Works and Transport
3. Minister of Finance
4. Minister of Economic Planning and Development
5. Minister of Health
6. Minister of Commerce Industry & Trade
7. Minister of Agriculture
8. Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development
9. Minister of Tourism and Environment
10.Minister of Natural Resources & Energy
11. Minister of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation
The Members of the National Emergency Management Committee are tasked with the
following responsibilities, among others:
• Coordinate National and Regional Emergency management measures at Cabinet level;

• Provide Cabinet oversight of the National Emergency Management Task Force;
• Act as the interface between the Government and the international community
regarding emergency management and assistance matters.
Government has furthermore appointed a National Emergency Task Force, comprised of

members of different sectors of society to implement National and Regional Emergency
Plans and Procedures, and Coordinate preparedness and response activities. Other
duties of the Task Team include the following:
• Establishing and directing the policy of the National Emergency Management

Secretariat with respect to planning, organizing, equipment, training, administration and
operations;
• Enlisting suitable persons to be volunteers in the coronavirus response;
• Inspecting at regular intervals, resources for preparedness and response activity;
• Mount multi-organizational exercises as may be necessary to test emergency plans
and procedures.
Members of the Task Team are:
1. Army Commander – General Jeffery Tshabalala

2. National Commissioner of Police – Mr. William Dlamini
3. Commissioner General Correctional Services – Ms. Phindile Dlamini
4. Chief Ndzabankhulu Simelane
5. Hhohho RA – Her Royal Highness Princess Tsandzile
6. Manzini RA – Chief Prince Gija Dlamini
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7. Lubombo RA - Mr. Themba Msibi

8. Shiselweni RA – Dr. Vincent Mhlanga
9. King’s Office – Mbongeni Simelane
10.Deputy Prime Minister’s Office Principal Secretary – Mr. Makhosini Mndawe
11.Ministry of Agriculture Principal Secretary- Mr. Bongani Masuku
12. Ministry of Education Principal Secretary– Mr. Bertram Stewart
13. Ministry of Tinkhundla Principal Secretary– Ms Nonhlanhla Dlamini
14. Ministry of Health Principal Secretary – Dr. Simon Zwane
15. World Health Organization’s – Dr. Cornelia Atsyo
16. Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society – Mr. Danger Nhlabatsi
17. UNICEF Country Representativce – Mr. Fshin Parsi
18. CANGO Director – Mr. Emmanuel Ndlangamandla
19. NERCHA National Director – Mr. Khanya Mabuza
20. Conference of Churches – Bishop Steven Masilela
21. FESBC – Mr. Tum Du Pont
22. Business Eswatini - Mr. Andrew Le Roux
23. National Youth Council – Ms. Baphelele Masilela
24. League of Churches – Bishop Samson Hlatjwako
25. Council of Churches – Reverend Magongo
26. World Vision National Director – Mr. Francis Dube
27. Deputy Prime Minister’s Office – Mrs. Zandile Mavuso
28. National Disaster Managament Agency – Mr. Russell Dlamini
There will be Regional Committees to be chaired by Regional Administrators and various

Sector Committees that will coordinate the response and implementation plan.
The Deputy Prime Minister will also be responsible for chairing the Task Force ensuring
it implements emergency plans throughout all the regions of the Kingdom to reach every
community.
May I emphasize the need for all of us to work with vigour and determination as we
undertake this significant assignment of ensuring that the spread of coronavirus
outbreak is curtailed in our Kingdom. I expect all of you to execute this responsibility with
the seriousness it deserves.
Government wishes to thank all EmaSwati who have rallied behind all efforts to fight this
virus. We can assure the public that Government remains committed to ensuring that all
citizens and residents are protected from this global pandemic, including our health
workers.
It cannot be over-emphasized that all of us should follow the precautionary guidelines as

provided by the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation. These include:
• Keeping the home environment clean and safe and disinfecting all high touch surfaces
regularly..
• Stop shaking hands and use other none touch methods of greeting.
• Wash hands regularly with running water and soap or use alcohol based sanitisers
17
temperature) visit your nearest health centre facility or call the Emergency Medical
Services Toll free line 977.
Thank you.

PRIME MINISTER
19 March 2020
Swaziland King in self-isolation over coronavirus threat, more cases confirmed

23 March 2020
King Mswati III, the absolute monarch of Swaziland (eSwatini), is in self-isolation due to the
coronavirus pandemic.
Lusendvo Fakudze, the Ludzidzini Palace Governor, confirmed this to the Swaziland News,
an online newspaper.
Fakudze said no one was allowed to see the King. He would not comment on reports
circulating on social media that King Mswati was no longer in Swaziland.
Meanwhile, the Swazi Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi reported that three more people in the
kingdom had tested positive for the virus, also known as covid-19. The known total of
positive cases is four. One person who earlier tested positive has since recovered.
In a statement Nkosi said 37 test results had been received. Swaziland has no resources and
tests have to be sent to neighbouring South Africa for analysis. The population of Swaziland
is about 1.3 million people.
Nurses, doctors and other healthcare workers continue to refuse to treat patients in hospitals
and clinics until they get personal protection equipment such as masks, gloves and gowns.
They also lack soap, paper towels and hand sanitisers in toilets and consultation rooms.
Among the facilities affected are Mbabane Government Hospital, Mankayane, Mkhuzeni,
Raleigh Fitkin Memorial hospitals and Lobamba Clinic.
The Swazi Government said money had been made available to buy equipment and it now
was waiting for suppliers to tender for purchase contracts. No date has been announced for
the equipment to arrive at hospitals and clinics.
King Mswati has already declared a state of emergency and schools, colleges and universities
are closed. Gatherings of 50 or more people are banned and travel restrictions are in place.
On Monday (23 March 2020) Minister of Tinkhundla Administration David Ngcamphalala

said, ‘Government has observed with disappointment that gatherings are continuing as usual.
We request communities to adhere to the set guidelines during community gatherings such as
weddings, funerals, community meetings, church services and family gatherings.’
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He added police would be sent to enforce the ban on gatherings if requested by regional
administrators.
King puts Swaziland into partial lockdown in bid to beat coronavirus. Army and police
on standby
24 March 2020
King Mswati III, the absolute monarch of Swaziland (eSwatini), has put the kingdom in
partial lockdown in a bid to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
The army and police will be deployed to ensure people obey the new demands.
His Prime Minister Ambrose Dlamini announced on Tuesday (24 March 2020) people would
not be allowed to leave their home except to get or provide essential services such as
healthcare, food, or banking.
In a statement Dlamini said, ‘His Majesty King Mswati III and Ingwenyama [the Queen
Mother] has commanded Government to introduce a partial lockdown on selected sectors of
the economy to curtail the spread of coronavirus with effect from 27 March 2020.
‘The partial lockdown entails: For 20 days, all unnecessary movements and visits outside the
perimeters of your home are restricted except to provide or acquire essential services such as
healthcare, food, or banking services, and for the personnel performing such services.’
To date only five people have been confirmed to have the coronavirus, none have died and
one recovered.
The Prime Minister said, ‘Essential Industries are expected to continue operating while
observing the proper hygiene standards that will protect employees from the pandemic. The
Ministry of Commerce will provide guidance on which industries fall under essential
services.’
He added, ‘Non-essential travel between towns, cities and regions of the country is not
permitted, except for medical reasons or to provide or acquire essential services. Transport of
food and goods will be allowed.
‘Public transport will only operate for essential movement and with one meter distance
between passengers. All bars are closed. Bottle stores will be allowed to operate from 11am–
6pm on Mondays to Saturdays. Police will be vigilant in closing illegal drinking spots and
shebeens.’
King Mswati had previously declared a state of emergency that closed all schools, colleges
and universities. It also banned gatherings of 50 or more people and put in place some travel
restrictions. Neighbouring South Africa had already closed some of its borders with
Swaziland.
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The new measures go further. Dlamini said, ‘All public gatherings of more than 20 people are
prohibited. This includes religious activities, sports events, conferences, wedding
celebrations, music concerts, parties, gymnasiums, or other activities or place where the
public gathers.’
He added, ‘Transport of food and goods across the borders will continue. The army and the
police will be deployed to ensure compliance with all these measures. Chiefs and traditional
authorities will take a leading role in enforcing these measures in their communities.’
He added, ‘Government advises that only goods and cargo and returning citizens and legal
residents will be allowed through our borders. Returning citizens and residents will be
subjected to a mandatory 14 days quarantine at designated locations except for those who are
able to self-isolate.’
COVID-19 RESPONSE ADDITIONAL MEASURES
His Majesty King Mswati III and Ingwenyama has commanded Government to introduce
a partial lockdown on selected sectors of the economy to curtail the spread of
coronavirus with effect from 27 March 2020. His Majesty emphasises that the economy
must continue to be strong and robust to ensure that the partial lockdown does not
ground the Kingdom.
The increasing number of confirmed cases in the country calls for all of us to be vigilant
and responsible in all our actions in order to quickly turn the tide against this rampaging
virus. His Majesty has therefore commanded that the King’s birthday Resource
Mobilisation Committee should now fundraise for COVID-19.
Through the counsel of His Majesty, Government has established Emergency

coordination structures that will implement the COVID-19 Emergency Plan. These
committees include a Cabinet sub-committee, Emergency Task Force, Regional and
Sector Committees. They have now hit the ground running, working on effective response
measures to contain the spread of the virus across our communities. May I pass my
gratitude to the Deputy Prime Minister and all members of these committees for their
devotion and dedication to this cause. I applaud all EmaSwati who continue to heed to
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health precautions to combat coronavirus and adhere to measures introduced by

Government to curb the spread of this pandemic. My gratitude all goes to all the
companies that have poured in resources to support the fight against COVID-19.
The partial lockdown that is being introduced today entails the following:
1. From Friday 27 March 2020, for 20 days, all unnecessary movements and visits
outside the perimeters of your home or residence are restricted except to provide
or acquire essential services such as healthcare, food, or banking services, and
for the personnel performing such services.
2. We encourage all employers to allow as many employees as possible to work
from home.
3. Essential Industries are expected to continue operating while observing the
proper hygiene standards that will protect employees from the pandemic.
Government will engage further to ensure that proper hygiene measures are
complied with. The Ministry of Commerce will provide guidance on which
industries fall under essential services.
4. Following the announcement by the South African Government of a lockdown,
Government advises that only goods and cargo as well as returning citizens and
legal residents will be allowed through our borders. Returning citizens and
residents will be subjected to a mandatory 14 days quarantine at designated
locations except for those who are able to self-isolate.
5. Non essential travel between towns, cities and regions of the country is not
permitted, except for medical reasons or to provide or acquire essential services.
Transport of food and goods will be allowed.
6. Employers need to ensure that worker density in the workplace is not more than
one person per square metre. Employers are expected to provide facilities for
employees to wash their hands before entering the workplace, every two hours
and upon leaving the workplace.
7. Electronic payments and online banking services should be used, where
possible, rather than physically visiting banks or ATMs. Elderly grants shall be
disbursed through electronic payment system henceforth.
8. Public transport will only operate for essential movement and with one (1) meter
distance between passengers.
9. All bars are closed. Bottle stores will be allowed to operate from 11am – 6pm on
Mondays to Saturdays. Police will be vigilant in closing illegal drinking spots and
shebeens.
10. In all food outlets and banks, the public is restricted to 20 individuals and a
distance of 1-2 meters between each other.
11. All public gatherings of more than 20 people are prohibited. For purpose of this
paragraph, public gatherings include but not limited to: religious activities, sports
events, conferences, wedding celebrations, music concerts, parties,
gymnasiums, or other activities or place where the public gathers.
12. Food and goods will be allowed across borders
13. The army and the police will be deployed to ensure compliance with all these
measures. Chiefs and traditional authorities will take a leading role in enforcing
these measures in their communities.
14. Government is fast tracking regulations that will enforce stiff penalties on would
be defaulters.
Government fully understands that the global spread of COVID-19 has caused anxiety
and, in some instances, panic. May I appeal that we all take this threat seriously and follow
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international best practice and advice from the Ministry of Health and the World Health
Organisation (WHO) to slow the spread of the virus. We must avoid unnecessary panic
as the situation will be normalised if each citizen continues to play their role and abide by
these measures and health precautions.
Government understands that the introduction of these measures may cause some
inconvenience, and hurt the economy but the safety and health of all EmaSwati is the
ultimate priority. Government is working closely with the private sector to find solutions to
mitigate the negative impact of this pandemic on business. May I strongly warn against
overpricing of goods and services by retailers at this time. His Majesty views these tough
times as an opportunity for EmaSwati to work towards self sufficiency and sustainability
in food production, energy and other products.
Once again, I would like to emphasize that all of us should follow the precautionary
guidelines as provided by the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation. These
include:
• Keeping the home environment clean and safe and disinfecting all high touch
surfaces regularly.
• Stop shaking hands and use other non touch methods of greeting.
• Wash hands regularly with running water and soap or use alcohol based
sanitisers.
temperature) visit your nearest health centre facility or call the Emergency
Medical Services Toll free line 977.
This is a time to unite to fight this common enemy. EmaSwati should admonish each
each other to ensure compliance with all the measures announced by Government.
May I assure the nation that Government is committed to emerge victorious against this
health threat and all necessary resources are directed to the efforts of accelerating our
response. I further appeal to the public to rely on credible information that will be
disseminated by Government through established communication channels and through
the media and reject misinformation from any other source, especially social media.
Government appreciate the guidance and counsel we continue to receive from His
Majesty the King as we continue to tackle this pandemic.
Thank you.

PRIME MINISTER
24 March 2020
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Swaziland Govt publishes long list of exceptions to coronavirus ‘lockdown’

25 March 2020
The Government of Swaziland (eSwatini) has published a long list of occupations that will be
exempted from the 20-day lockdown against the coronavirus recently announced.
The Minister of Public Service Christian Ntshangase said at any one time half all public
servants will be expected at work while the other half worked from home.
He told a press conference on Wednesday (25 March 2020), ‘All essential services within the
civil service including fire and emergency services, health services, meteorology services and
security services will not be affected by this new system as they are expected to be fully at
work.’
At the same press conference the Swazi Commerce Minister Manqoba Khumalo identified
the following industries as essential during the partial lockdown: food retailers, consumer
goods suppliers, manufacturers, agriculture and agro-processing, public transport, cross-
border transport, fuel stations, financial services, waste disposal services, health workers and
emergency response workers, fire and emergency services, security services, water and
sanitation services, pharmacies and telecommunications.
On Tuesday King Mswati III, Swaziland’s absolute monarch, declared the kingdom was to go
into partial lockdown for 20 days from 27 March 2020.
He banned people from making all unnecessary movements and visits outside the perimeters
of their home ‘except to provide or acquire essential services’.
Non-essential travel between towns, cities and regions of the country is no longer permitted,
except for medical reasons or to provide or acquire essential services. Public transport will
continue to operate only for essential movement and with one metre distance between
passengers. All bars are to closed but bottle stores will be allowed to operate from 11am–6pm
on Mondays to Saturdays.
Schools, colleges and universities were closed last week after King Mswati declared a state of
emergency.
As of 25 March 2020 there have been no reported deaths in Swaziland from coronavirus. Five
people have reportedly tested positive.
At Wednesday’s press conference Agriculture Minister Jabulani Mabuza said the government
would ensure that there were no food shortages during the partial lockdown. ‘We have
instructed all importers of critical grains to stock up sufficient volumes,’ he said.
Mabuza added, ‘We request community leaders to indicate shortages of basic food items in
their communities so that we can facilitate availability. We also encourage those who have
food commodities to use them sparingly and practice barter trade with those in need.’
23
MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND TRADE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR ALL INDUSTRIES
Following the declaration of a partial lockdown in the wake of the outbreak of COVID-19
worldwide, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, in consultation with the
business community, has identified the following principles within which businesses shall
operate.
First and foremost, as a Ministry, we recognise that no business is non-essential but for
the purposes of COVID-19, the Ministry recommends that the following industries
continue operating as normal under World Health Organization (WHO) and Ministry of
Health guidelines.
Essential services
The sectors below have been for this purpose identified as critical industries:
• Food retailers
• Consumer Goods suppliers
• Manufacturers and all businesses that are involved in the food and consumer
goods supply chain.
• Agriculture and Agro-processing
• Public Transport and cross-border transport
• Fuel stations
• Financial services
• Waste disposal services
• Health workers and Emergency Response Workers
• Fire and Emergency services
• Security Services
• Water and Sanitation Services
• Pharmacies
• Telecommunications
• Hospitality industry
• Energy sector
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• media
For those businesses that do not fall within the specified sectors above, except for bars
which remain closed and bottle stores which shall operate within a stipulated time frame,
we encourage them to scale down by minimising their working hours. Businesses that
cannot comply to WHO and Ministry of Health guidelines are expected to shut down until
the situation normalises.
We do understand that some businesses will be affected by external factors and we

encourage those to engage their employees to come up with a workable plan on how to
manage the situation.
Food retailers
These are outlets that provide food; including supermarkets, restaurants and deli shops.
However, we urge these businesses to follow the guidelines; which I shall be
announcing shortly. We also encourage these businesses to introduce innovative ways
of delivering their food items such as online orders and deliveries as well as digital
payments. We cannot over-emphasise the importance of cooking home-made meals to
those who can in order to minimise movement during this period.
Consumer Goods suppliers
These include retail and manufacturing industries in the consumer goods sector such as
suppliers of raw materials, hand sanitisers, facial masks, disinfectant wipes, surgical
gloves, toilet paper, baby formula and others.
Cross-border trade
This will continue as normal. However, the Ministry of Home Affairs shall advise in the
instance of individual informal cross border traders.
Informal sector
We are aware that the informal sector shall be hardest hit by these developments. We
shall, therefore, be working with Municipalities to ensure that the situation is managed
amicably. Those who want to work are advised to observe the safety precautions as
stipulated.
Essential business services at the Ministry of Commerce
The Ministry wishes to assure the public that our essential services such as company
registrations, liquor and trading licences and their renewals shall continue as normal. We
do, however, encourage Emaswati to use our online registration and name reservation
services on https://www.online.gov.sz in order to minimise long queues at the risk of
exposure to COVID-19. In a few days, we shall be announcing an online mobile
payment system to make transactions more convenient.
Business principles and guidelines
25
As a country, we are aware that people’s lives are at risk and it is, therefore, everyone’s
duty to take urgent preventative measures to minimise human loss. The business
community needs to be at the forefront of these measures and it is against this
background that the following guidelines must be implemented to reduce the spread of
the virus to protect employees and customers in all sectors.
Manufacturing and Processing:
• Government encourages the introduction of more shifts to limit the number of

employees in factory floors and restrict the number of employees in any defined
working area.
• Businesses need to ensuring compliance of the World Health Organization’s
social distancing guidelines (1.5-meter distance between 2 individuals). This is
not negotiable.
• Businesses are compelled to place hand sanitiser dispensers at the entrance and
throughout the premises and ensure that they are replenished and/or replaced at
all times.
• Businesses need to provide hygiene reminders on visible posters and digital
platforms.
• Sanitation stations should be placed at every corner with high human traffic.
• All business should reinforce cleaning and sanitisation protocols.
• Businesses should step up the frequencyof cleaning by making cleaning routines
"even more rigorous."
• Businesses should periodically wipe down checkout lanes and touchscreens.
• Businesses should sanitise counters, doors and areas subject to frequent contact
by people.
• Businesses need to establish emergency protocols in the event any employee
exhibits symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and immediately ensure traceability
of contacts with the said suspected employee. This is to ensure that should the
employee eventually prove positive, all the people with whom said employee
would have come into contact are traced and then tested.
• As a general rule, employers are to ensure that public transport in which their
employers are transported should be sanitized both at boarding and
disembarking.
In addition to the above, establishments in the food retail sector shall ensure:
1. That all shopping carts (trolleys) are sanitised thoroughly after each use by
shopping patrons
2. Once a trolley has been used by each patron, it shall be sanitised once again,
ready to be used by the next patron.
3. Unnecessary contact to food by patrons shall be restricted and kept at an
absolute minimum.
4. Each retail establishment shall be sanitised periodically as is necessary so as to
rid the atmosphere of flying germs.
5. At Point of Sale (POS), there shall be a dedicated resource whose sole job will be
to enforce social distancing measures as patrons make payment for their
shopping.
6. It shall be the duty of Management to ensure that at no point in time does the
number of people exceed 20 inside any establishment. For smaller retail shops,
this figure shall even be lower. In any event, social distancing of 1.5 metres apart
shall be observed without fail.
26
7. The exchange of legal tender, i.e. notes and coins, should be kept at an absolute
minimum in favor of digital payment platforms which we hereby encourage that
they be fully functional at all times.
8. Management agrees to enforcing these measures at all times and the Ministry of
Commerce, Industry and Trade with the help of duly authorised agencies such as
Business Eswatini and FESBC shall ensure compliance.
9. Failure to comply with the aforementioned can and will result in the closure of that
business in the interest of people’s health.
For further information on business interventions, please contact the MSME Director Mr
Mluleki Dlamini on 2404 3201/2/3/4/5/6 or send him an email at
mlulekisakhile@yahoo.com. You can also call our toll-free line 800 1002 or the following
business federations:
Business Eswatini - 2404 0768
Federation of Eswatini Business Community (FESBC) - 2505 9199
Released by
Senator Manqoba B. Khumalo

HONOURABLE MINISTER FOR COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND TRADE
25 March 2020
New offence of spreading coronavirus rumours in Swaziland carries possible five years
jail time
27 March 2020
Swaziland (eSwatini) has created a new offence of spreading rumours or ‘unauthentic

information’ about the coronavirus (COVID-19) which carries a fine of E20,000 or up to five
years imprisonment.
The Swazi Minister of Justice Pholile Shakantu made the announcement on Friday (27 March
2020) as the kingdom ruled by absolute monarch King Mswati III started a 20-day partial
lockdown.
Shakantu announced at a press conference the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Regulations 2020

issued under S43 of the Disaster Management Act of 2006 and approved by Parliament.
Shakantu also said, ‘The business sector is also cautioned against unfair practices including
the hiking of prices especially on items considered essential at this time. Such person or
business may face a fine not exceeding E500,000 (US$28,000).’
At the same press conference the Ministry of Health Principal Secretary Dr Simon Zwane
said there were now nine confirmed cases of coronavirus cases in Swaziland. There had been
no deaths.
Dr Zwane also said, ‘Government has been working with partners to conduct massive
training for health workers in the area of COVID-19 response and case management. In total,
27
1,007 nurses have been trained on COVID-19. A total of 3,022 Rural Health Motivators
(RHM) have been trained.’
He said there would be restrictions placed on patients at hospital. ‘Accompanying of patients

seeking out-patient services will be limited to one person per patient. Hospital visiting hours
for in-patients have now been reduced to twice per day and limited to only two visitors per
patient.’
Prime Minister Ambrose Dlamini said, ‘The rising number of positive cases is a cause for
concern and an indication that we have no option but to be more attentive, tolerant and
receptive to all the control and prevention measures that have been put in place.’
He also said the government would ensure that all essential goods and services continued to
be available during the partial lockdown.
He ‘strongly advised’ people returning to Swaziland from South Africa and other high risk
countries to immediately self-quarantine for 14 days ‘without exception.’
Dlamini added, ‘The measures being implemented for the next 20 days include suspending all
unnecessary travel within cities, towns, communities and beyond, except for instances of
providing or acquiring essential services such as healthcare, food, or banking services.’
He said, ‘The measures are now in full force and we expect all EmaSwati [Swazi people] to
fully comply and abide by them without exception. The irresponsible actions of a few can put
all of us in danger. The cost to our economy is high but the health and safety of citizens is
paramount.’
He added, ‘Government has instructed employers to allow as many as possible employees to

work from home.’
He said, ‘Essential businesses should continue operating at full strength with proper
adherence to measures that will protect employees while those not included in the list are
expected to scale down their operations and meet the appropriate standards, failing which
they risk closure.’
Elsewhere, public transport would now only run in the early morning and the late afternoon,
Chairman of the National Road Transportation Council Sihlangu Nhlabatsi announced on
Thursday.
He said vehicles would have to observe the government’s directive involving the social
distance of one metre between passengers; disinfection of vehicles and sanitisation of
passengers at all times.
On Friday, Sports, Culture and Youth Minister Harries Bulunga announced the suspension of
all forms of sport in the kingdom, including social sport.
The Eswatini Stock Exchange announced it would be closed from Friday until 15 April.
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Foreign nationals, mainly South Africans, who entered Swaziland through border gates were
given only 24 hours to conduct their business and leave the kingdom.
Swaziland coronavirus partial lockdown Day1 – P.M. statement

27 March 2020
Day 1 of Swaziland’s coronavirus partial lockdown. Statement form Prime Minister Ambrose
Dlamini.

PARTIAL LOCKDOWN UPDATE – COVID-19
Today the Kingdom of Eswatini joined the rest of the world and more than 2.5 billion
people globally to observe a partial lockdown and, for others, a full lockdown - to combat
a common enemy, the coronavirus. This is unchartered territory for the Kingdom and the
world, a time when our resolve and collective effort to control the spread of a virus that
has gained unsavoury reputation is put to the test.
The partial lockdown that has been effected across the country today is a necessary
step towards containing the spread of this evidently stubborn coronavirus. Clearly it
brings to the fore a lot of inconveniences never experienced before, hurts business and
our economy, deters the free movement of people and in extension spreads a lot of
anxiety and panic among the populace.
However, we can learn from the experiences of other countries which have felt the brunt
of this pandemic over the past months. We can also draw advice from medical experts
who insist that limiting the movement of people and staying at home, presents us with
the best chance of saving lives and stopping an uncontrollable spread which can quickly
reach all corners of the Kingdom.
The measures announced on Monday are now in full force and we expect all EmaSwati
and residents of this country to fully comply and abide by them without exception. The
29
irresponsible actions of a few can put all of us in danger. The cost to our economy is
high but the health and safety of citizens is paramount.
Currently Eswatini has eight confirmed coronavirus cases and more tests are still
pending. The rising number of positive cases is a cause for concern and an indication
that we have no option but to be more attentive, tolerant and receptive to all the control
and prevention measures that have been put in place.
May I remind EmaSwati that the measures being implemented for the next 20 days
include suspending all unnecessary travel within cities, towns, communities and beyond,
except for instances of providing or acquiring essential services such as healthcare,
food, or banking services. All gatherings of more than 20 people are prohibited.
Gatherings that meet this requirement are expected to observe proper hygiene
standards and social distancing of 1-2 metres is followed, among others.
Borders are closed for non essential travel. Only goods and cargo as well as returning
citizens and legal residents are allowed movement through the borders. Government will
ensure that all essential goods and services continue to be available in the country over
the partial lockdown period. Returning citizens and residents are reminded that they will
be subjected to mandatory 14 days quarantine at designated locations except for those
who are able to self-isolate. More specifically, may I strongly advise citizens returning
from South Africa and other high risk countries to immediately self quarantine for 14
days without exception. During the self quarantine they should avoid physical contact
with family members and stay alone in well ventilated rooms.
Government has instructed employers to allow as many as possible employees to work

from home. Over the week, several Ministers offered guidelines of what is expected from
both employers and employees for the duration of this partial lockdown
period. Essential businesses should continue operating at full strength with proper
adherence to hygiene standards and all the relevant measures of social distancing that
will protect employees from the pandemic. A list of essential services has already been
published by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade and includes health,
banking, security, energy, water services, media and others. The full list is available in
the Government website or you can call the free toll number 8001002.
Businesses that are not included in the list of essential services are expected to scale
down their operations and, most importantly, meet the appropriate health and hygiene
standards, failing which they risk closure. We continue to engage business to cushion
the effects of this partial lockdown on their businesses, and more especially, to ensure
full compliance to the partial lockdown measures.
Government continues to engage all other relevant sectors as we implement the

response strategies to this pandemic. This also includes Parliament.
I am happy to report that Parliament has passed Coronavirus regulations that will
enforce adherence to both the National Emergency declaration actions and the partial
lockdown measures. Security forces are already on the ground ensuring compliance with
the regulations and have the powers to disperse gatherings of more than 20 people and
30
enforce processes that will lead to litigation of defaulters. Chiefs, traditional authorities
and community police will lead the way in ensuring total compliance in communities.
Government has completed setting up the necessary structures to fast track
implementation of the National Response to the outbreak of the COVID 19. These
structures which include the Inter-Ministerial Emergency Management Committee,
National Emergency Task Force and the Technical working group have already started
intervening on behalf of government. Regional Administration Offices have also
activated regional disaster management teams to the lowest level of administration to
raise awareness on coronavirus and improve preparedness and prevention of the
scourge. Together with the security forces, these committees have made a network
across the country that is well coordinated.
Regional Administrators are working with Chiefs and traditional authorities to raise
awareness at community level as well as to protect families from contracting the
virus. The Resource mobilization Committee has started receiving donations for the
National Response. These resources are being put into good use. Hand washing
facilities have been provided to most municipalities and to key government institutions.
Delivery of important health equipment and material is continuing and more orders have
been placed to meet the need.
Government through the Ministry of Health continues to respond the COVID 19 outbreak
through the implementation of a Health response plan.
Surveillance of the condition has been boosted by the recruitment of more officers in the
environmental health sector who shall continue manning ports of entry including working
together with the security forces. Thermal scanners have been added and more are still
awaited to ensure adequate coverage.
The Ministry of Health is intensifying contact tracing to provide information on the cases
to be followed and monitor the development of symptoms to inform need for testing.
Training of health care workers who are in the frontline is ongoing. This partial lockdown
is very essential to break the transmission of the virus. Disruption of the spread of the
virus will go a long way into defeating this global pandemic.
It is therefore crucial to re-emphasize the need to adhere to restrictions of the partial

lockdown particularly with reference to limiting movement to only essential travel. Every
citizen and resident is urged to abide by the measures to ensure that the country
contains the spread of the virus. We must acknowledge the thousands of citizens who
have taken these restrictions in their stride.
May I also take this opportunity to emphasize that His Majesty King Mswati III has
declared tomorrow, Saturday 28 March 2020, a fasting day and Sunday, a National
Prayer day. We expect all EmaSwati across all faiths to join in the fasting and prayer as
we seek the guidance of the Almighty God to help us sail through this challenge faced
by the nation and the world. It is through prayer that God protects us from all challenges.
The Book of Philippians 4:6-7 tells that, “Be anxious for nothing, but in all your prayers
ask God for what you need with a thankful heart: and the peace of God, which
31
surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
May I thank Their Majesties for leading the charge to come closer to God.
This pandemic has presented us with the opportunity to act in common purpose in order
to protect each other as EmaSwati, but not to panic. It is not the time to spread false
information on social media. We have no reason to panic if we are responsible and
follow all the guidelines as provided for by Government and the World Health
Organisation.
As we observe the partial lockdown and restrict unnecessary movement and stay at
home, let us remember to follow the precautionary guidelines as provided by the Ministry
of Health and the World Health Organisation. These include:
• Our home environment should be kept clean and safe and all high touch surfaces
must be disinfected regularly.
• Wash hands with running water and soap or use alcohol based sanitisers.
• Stop shaking hands and use other non touch methods of greeting.
• Avoid touching your face (mouth, nose, eyes) and cover coughs and sneezes.
If you experience flu like symptoms (fever, difficulty breathing, cough, high temperature)
visit your nearest health centre facility or call the Emergency Medical Services Toll free
line 977.
Thank you.

PRIME MINISTER
27 March 2020
Swaziland Govt publishes coronavirus regulations

28 March 2020
The Swaziland (eSwatini) Government has published the full Coronavirus COVID-19
Regulations – follow this link to download http://www.gov.sz/images/CORONA/The-
Coronavirus-COVID-19-Regulations-2020.pdf
LEGAL NOTICE NO: 72 OF 2020

THE DISASTER MANAGEMENT ACT
(Act No. 1 of 2006)
THE CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) REGULATIONS, 2020
(Under section 43)
32
In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 43 of the Disaster Management, 2006, the
Deputy Prime Minister makes the following Regulations-
ARRANGEMENT OF REGULATIONS
PART I
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. Citation and Commencement.
2. Interpretation.
PART II
COUNTERING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
3. Prevention of spread of Covid -19.
4. Compulsory notification on suspected cases.
5. Screening of persons.
6. Test samples for Covid-19.
7. Notification on development of symptoms.
8. Isolation for asymptomatic person.
9. Isolation for symptomatic person.
10. Steps upon examination.
11. Measures for defined geographic area.
12. Refusal of medical examination, treatment, isolation and quarantine.
13. Refusal to cooperate with enforcement officer.
14. Places of quarantine and isolation.
PART III
INTERNAL AND CROSS-BORDER TRAVEL
15. Internal Travel.
16. Cross –Border Travel.
PART IV
CONSUMER PROTECTION
17. Interpretation.
18. Price control.
19. Unfair practices.
20. Supply of Goods.
21. Restriction and prohibition on sale of liquor.
22. Restriction on restaurants.
23. Essential industries.
24. Offence
More than 40 arrested in Swaziland for defying coronavirus lockdown during first
weekend
30 March 2020
33
At least 41 people from across Swaziland (eSwatini) were arrested for not obeying the
coronavirus lockdown during its first weekend.
Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati said
nine had been charged under the Coronavirus Regulations just issued, three were arrested
using the Disaster Management Act and the rest were charged under the Liquor Act.
Some paid an ‘admission of guilt fine’ that ranged between E120 and E500 and others were
due to appear in magistrates court on Monday (30 March 2020). Most of those were arrested
after bottle stores were not closed at stipulated times. Bars have been closed completely.
New regulations were published on Saturday after Swaziland was placed on a partial
lockdown for 20 days. The kingdom was already under a state of emergency.
On Monday Swazi Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi told a press briefing there had been no
new cases reported of coronavirus in Swaziland. The total reported so far is nine. There have
been no deaths. She said tests had been sent to neighboring South Africa for analysis but
some had been rejected because, ‘priority for testing is being given to people who have
travelled or have been in close contact with positive patients.’
She added, ‘Government has hired 145 nurses and six doctors and will also be opening four
more clinics at Lundzi, Mkhwakhweni, Zindwendweni and Maphalaleni to strengthen the
country’s capacity to fight COVID-19. We are expecting that this week we should be able to
add 110 nurses and nine doctors.’
The Ministry of Health is to test pupils and staff at a school in the Hhohho Region for
coronavirus after a teacher tested positive. They have been asked to self-isolate until results
are known.
Meanwhile, the government has received a donation of E4.5 million for the coronavirus fund
from members of Business Eswatini.
On Sunday Minister of Public Works Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe announced that public
transport would only be allowed operate from 5am to 9am and then again from 3pm to 7pm
for the duration of the lockdown.
34
2 KING MSWATI III
Democracy leader detained by Swaziland police for not taking cap off in front of King’s
picture
6 January 2020
Mbongwa Dlamini, President of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT),

was detained by the police for standing in front of a picture of the absolute monarch King
Mswati III while wearing a cap.
He was at the Sandlane Boarder Post and Swazi police denied him entry back into the
Swaziland (eSwatini) from South Africa.
Dlamini told the Swaziland News, an online newspaper, that he was told he had to remove the
cap he was wearing before his passport would be stamped.
The News reported it is an offence under customary law to wear a hat in front of King
Mswati’s picture and people are expected to remove their hats to show respect.
The News reported Dlamini saying, ‘When I asked why should I remove it, they showed me
the picture of the King on the wall saying that was the reason I should remove my cap.’ He
added police harassed and detained him. The incident happened on Boxing Day. He was later
released.
Sikelela Dlamini, SNAT Secretary General said Mbongwa Dlamini was being victimized and
deprived his right to freedom of movement.
A police spokesperson later said Mbongwa Dlamini had only been asked to remove his hat
for identification purposes.
In 2012 a 17-year-old schoolboy was fined E400 by Swazi National Court for ripping up a
photograph of King Mswati.
The Swazi Observer, a newspaper in effect owned by the King, reported at the time court
president Makhuluma Ndwandwe warned him that it was a serious offence and ordered that
he be sent to jail where he could be corrected. He was given a fine instead.
See also
Swaziland democracy leaders call on absolute monarch to arrange talks for political change
Swaziland police in mass raids on homes of democracy activists, some detained
University lecturers ‘forced to weed fields of Swaziland absolute monarch’

8 January 2020
35
University lecturers in Swaziland (eSwatini) say they have been forced to abandon duties to
work unpaid in the fields of absolute monarch King Mswati III.
In the past the King has been criticised by modern-day slavery campaigners for forcing
people, including children, to work in his fields.
Lecturers said they feared they would lose their jobs if they did not obey the call to work for
the King.
This has been going on for years, but has only now been revealed publicly.
The Swaziland News, an online newspaper, reported lecturers at the University of eSwatini
(formerly University of Swaziland – UNISWA) ‘were forced to protect their jobs by
participating in royal assignments and abandon their professional duties thus comprising the
quality of education within the University’.
It said, ‘lecturers who spoke to this publication on condition of anonymity said they were not
comfortable with working in the King’s fields but attend the royal duties in fear of losing
their jobs in the event they defy the King.’
Salebona Simelane, the university registrar, confirmed that some lecturers attended the royal
fields but said none of them was under duress or forced to demonstrate allegiance to the
King.
Musa Nkambule, a lecturer at the university who is also Chairman of the political party Sive
Siyinqaba ‘Sibahle Sinje’, told the News, ‘the administration normally made an
announcement among the staff that the university would be closing early for lecturers to
attend to the royal duties.
‘We should be marking the [examination] scripts by then but we can’t do that because we are
expected to attend to the royal assignment, this is not right,’ he said.
In 2018 King Mswati was named in a global report on modern slavery for forcing his subjects
to weed his fields.
The Global Slavery Index 2018, said there was evidence that the practice known as kuhlehla
continued, ‘where the community is forced to render services or work for the King or local
chiefs’.
The report estimated there were 12,000 people in Swaziland in modern slavery. This number
increased from 1,302 people in 2013 and 6,700 people in 2014. The numbers for 2018 may
have been distorted by changes in the way victims were counted.
The report stated modern slavery, ‘refers to situations of exploitation that a person cannot
refuse or leave because of threats, violence, coercion, deception and / or abuse of power’.
36
This was not the first time King Mswati had been named in a report on modern slavery or
human trafficking. The annual Trafficking in Persons Report for 2017 from the United States
State Department said it had been reporting conditions in Swaziland for the previous five
years. It said, ‘Swazis are culturally expected to participate in the seasonal weeding and
harvesting of the King’s fields and those who may refuse are subject to coercion through
threats and intimidation by their chiefs.’
A report Child Labor and Forced Labor from the US Department of Labor looking at 2016
stated penalties imposed by chiefs included ‘evicting families from their village and
confiscating livestock’.
Separately, the 2014 Trafficking in Persons report revealed, ‘Swazi chiefs may coerce
children and adults—through threats and intimidation—to work for the King. Swazi boys and
foreign children are forced to labor in commercial agriculture, including cattle herding, and
market vending within the country.’
King Mswati was at the centre of an international controversy in January 2015 when Swazi
Media Commentary revealed that schools in Swaziland were forced to stay closed after
Christmas so children could weed the King’s fields. As many as 30,000 children were
thought to have missed schooling as a result.
The Global Slavery Index for 2016 reported that the Swazi Government ‘attempted to
backtrack on its intentions when its use of unpaid child labour was reported by international
media’.
Seven in ten people in Swaziland live in abject poverty earning less than the equivalent of
$US3 per day. They can be forced to work under the Swazi Administration Order, No. 6 of
1998 which makes it a duty of Swazis to obey orders and participate in compulsory works;
participation is enforceable with severe penalties for those who refuse.
This is allowed even though the Swaziland Constitution that came into effect in 2006
prohibits forced or compulsory labour.
See also
Swazi Govt misleads on child labour
Kids forced to weed King’s fields
EU gives Swaziland humanitarian aid to feed hungry while absolute monarch buys his
family 15 Rolls-Royce cars
21 January 2020
Only two months after King Mswati III, the absolute monarch of Swaziland (eSwatini), spent
E53 million on a fleet of Rolls-Royce cars for himself and members of his family the
European Union has announced it will give Euro 1 Million (E16 million) in aid for the
hungry because the kingdom cannot feed its own people.
37
About 232,000 people (25 percent of the rural population) are expected to experience severe
acute food insecurity, according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC).
A statement from the European Commission said the money was to help people affected by
drought to get food. European Union Ambassador to Swaziland Esmerelda Hernandez
Aragones said areas in the Lubombo, Hhohho and Shiselweni regions would get the money.
Swaziland takes humanitarian aid from a number of different countries although it is not
officially a poor country. It is designated a ‘lower middle income’ nation by the World Bank.
The situation in Swaziland is that the King and his family drain resources for themselves.
Their lavish spending has been reported and criticised by international agencies for many
years.
The King takes 25 percent of all mining royalties and controls the profits of the conglomerate
Tibiyo TakaNgwane. Officially he keeps these monies ‘in trust’ for the Swazi nation, but in
reality much of it goes to fund his own lifestyle.
He has two private airplanes, at least 13 palaces and fleets of top-of-the-range cars. At his
50th birthday in 2018 he wore a watch worth US$1.6 million and a suit beaded with diamonds
that weighed 6 kg. Days earlier he had taken delivery of his second private jet. This one, an
Airbus A340, cost US$13.2 to purchase but with VIP upgrades was estimated to have cost
US$30 million.
King Mswati once again made international news in November 2019 when he bought 15
Rolls-Royce cars for himself and his family. Days later the government that he personally
appointed took delivery of 84 BMW cars and 42 BMW motorbikes, which were reportedly
for ‘escort duties’.
After the purchases, Lisa Peterson, United State Ambassador to Swaziland, in a public
speech, said, ‘As a development partner, I have serious concerns about the leadership
example currently coming out of the palace.’
She added, ‘While the government continued using its existing vehicle fleet, the palace
sees fit to acquire more than a dozen Rolls-Royce vehicles with a minimum price tag of
US$3.71 million (E53 million). To accompany this royal fleet, there is now an even larger
fleet of official escort vehicles, purchased with public funds.’
She said, ‘It is exceedingly difficult for development partners to continue advocating for
assistance to eSwatini when such profligate spending or suspicious giving is taking place.’
An official transcript of the speech issued by the US Embassy in Swaziland, reported her
saying, ‘Should the people of eSwatini really be comfortable with such disregard for the
perilous fiscal state of the country, particularly with so many of His Majesty’s subjects living
below the international poverty line?’
38
Ambassador Peterson had previously criticised the absolute monarchy in Swaziland. In an

article published in November 2018 by both of Swaziland’s two national daily newspapers
she called for the decree that puts King Mswati in power as an absolute monarch to be
repealed. She also called for political parties to be allowed to contest elections.
In 2016, after reports that three of the King’s wives had taken an entourage of 100 people on
a shopping trip to Toronto, Canada, Peterson warned Swaziland that the kingdom might not
receive further food aid from her country because of the King’s ‘lavish spending’ on
holidays.
News24 in South Africa reported at the time Peterson said the US had limited funds for
drought relief. She said, ‘When we hear of the lavish spending by the Swazi royal family –
especially while a third of their citizens need food aid – it becomes difficult to encourage our
government to make more emergency aid available. You can’t expect international donors to
give more money to the citizens of Swaziland than their own leaders give them.’
See also
Oxfam names Swaziland most unequal country in Africa on personal income
No let up on poverty in Swaziland as absolute King makes public display of his vast wealth
Lavish spending leads to food aid cut
‘Plot underway to assassinate Swaziland absolute monarch’, international defence

journal reports
23 January 2020
Mercenaries from Israel and Lebanon are plotting to assassinate King Mswati III, the absolute
monarch of Swaziland (eSwatini), the Defense & Foreign Affairs Strategic Policy journal
reported.
The journal published by the International Strategic Studies Association said the plot was
supported by the African National Congress (ANC) which is the governing party in South
African, the People’s Republic of China (PRC), and the Government of the United Kingdom.
The journal reported (Vol. 47, No. 11/12, 2019) the mercenaries entered Swaziland in
November 2019 but were unable immediately to get to the King because he was in seclusion
as part of the annual Incwala ceremonies.
Swaziland is not a democracy and political parties are barred from taking part in elections.
Groups that advocate for democracy are banned under the Suppression of Terrorism Act. The
King chooses the Prime Minister and cabinet and top judges.
Defense & Foreign Affairs Strategic Policy journal reported the plot was backed by the UK
because it ‘had reportedly been promised concessions to exploit eSwatini reserves of
diamonds and natural gas, among other things, in a “post-Mswati” eSwatini. Sensitive UK
Government documents confirm that understanding.’
39
It added, ‘Significant external financial and political support for the revolutionaries has not
brought about a national groundswell against the King. The Umbutfo eSwatini Defence Force
(UEDF) and the Swati chiefs and peoples reaching into South Africa (including the
Johannesburg region, traditionally Swati territory) remain passionately loyal to the King.’
The journal offered no evidence to support its reporting. It gave this analysis of why eSwatini
was important globally.
‘Presently, despite its size, it is a pillar of stability relative to South Africa itself, given that
collapse of the South African state is a possibility, even as soon as 2020. And Southern
Africa is key to monitoring and control of the Cape of Good Hope sea route. South Africa is
presently a key component of the PRC’s strategy to control sea lanes and ports globally.
‘Moreover, eSwatini is the only country in Africa which still recognizes the Republic of
China (ROC: Taiwan), rather than the PRC. If South Africa falls apart and an independent
KwaZulu-Natal returned eSwatini's access to the Indian Ocean, this would significantly affect
maritime strategies in the region. As well, the Zulu Kingdom itself may not necessarily
recognize Beijing.’
The International Strategic Studies Association founded in 1982 and based in Washington
DC describes itself as a worldwide membership Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) of
professionals involved in national management, particularly in national and international
security and strategic policy.
See also
‘Attempted coup in Swaziland’
Swaziland police chief threatens social media users with wrath of the law if they criticise
King
31 January 2020
Police in the absolute monarchy of Swaziland (eSwatini) are to hunt down and arrest people
who criticise King Mswati on social media.
The National Commissioner of Police William Dlamini said the law would deal with them
harshly.
He made the announcement in a written statement published in media across Swaziland on

Friday (31 January 2020).
The eSwatini Observer, a newspaper in effect owned by the King, reported, ‘He stated that
the police service was hot on their trail and they will see to it that the perpetrators of the
cybercrime ultimately face the wrath and might of the law.’
40
Human rights are severely curtailed in Swaziland. Freedom House scored Swaziland 16 out
of a possible 100 points in its Freedom in the World 2019 report. It concluded that Swaziland
was ‘not free’.
There is very little media freedom in Swaziland, where one of the only two daily newspapers
is owned by King Mswati. All broadcast news is controlled by the government, whose
members are handpicked by the King.
Democracy campaigners use social media sites such as Facebook to draw attention to human
rights abuses.
Dlamini said there were ‘highly insolent and morality devoid characters disseminating
seditious, slanderous and very insultive statements about the country’s authorities via social
media’.
He added, ‘The intent and motive of these statements is seemingly to vilify and pour scorn on
the country’s authorities, which we find completely unacceptable and an insult to the entire
nation.’
The Swaziland News, an online newspaper, reported, the National Commissioner announced
that they had launched a high-level investigation that would uncover those behind these
‘vitriolic and damaging statements’ so they could be dealt with according to the law. ‘He said
they have noted that these individuals were in a mission to plant a seed of disorder and
anarchy in the Nation.’
This is not the first time the Swazi state has threatened social media users.
In March 2018, Swaziland’s then Prime Minister Barnabas Dlamini hinted his government
might try to restrict access to social media, but he told Senators there was nothing police
could do ‘at the moment’ about the posts.
The Swazi Observer reported at the time, ‘The premier said it was unfortunate that social
media was a very complex phenomenon, which no single person or organisation could
control.’
The Swazi Government has a history of hostility to social media. In 2011, Prime Minister
Dlamini said it was important to keep information published on Facebook away from the
Swazi people. ‘If such stories from these websites then make it to the newspapers and radios,
then the public at large will start to think there is some truth in the story yet it was just
malicious gossip,’ the Times of Swaziland reported him saying at the time.
He was commenting after information about a cabinet minister had appeared on social media.
The Swazi Observer also reported at the time, ‘Dlamini said government did not have any
measures to control the internet but relied on the support of the media which assists by shying
away from information published or sourced from the internet.’
41
In the run up to April 2011 a group used Facebook to try to drum up support for an ‘uprising’
for democracy in the kingdom. The Government threatened the online activists with
prosecution.
In May 2011, the Times of Swaziland reported Swaziland had specially ‘trained officers’ to
track down people who used Facebook to criticise the Swazi Government. Nathaniel
Mahluza, Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Information Communication and Technology,
said the government was worried by what the newspaper called ‘unsavoury comments’ about
the kingdom being published on the internet.
In March 2012, Swaziland’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Chief Mgwagwa
Gamedze said he would use the law against people who criticised Swaziland on the internet.
He told the Swazi Senate that he would use what he called ‘international laws’ to bring the
internet critics to task. He was reacting to concerns from Senators that the internet sites
showed ‘disrespect’ to the King.
Academic research published in 2013 suggested that people in Swaziland used the Internet to
communicate with one another and share information and ideas about the campaign for
democracy, bypassing the Swazi mainstream media which was heavily censored. They
debated and shared information about activities designed to bring attention to the human
rights abuses in the kingdom.
The research suggested, ‘It is clear that social media sites have extended the public sphere to
offer opportunities for a wider range of people both in the country and outside it, to produce,
distribute and exchange information and commentary about the kingdom – especially in the
context of the need for political change. People speak in their own voices and are not
mediated in the way mainstream media are in Swaziland.’
National Commissioner of Police William Dlamini
See also
PM hints at social media restriction
One in three use Internet for news
42
Swaziland’s absolute monarch tells parliament to ignore calls for democracy and stick
with him
1 February 2020
King Mswati III, the absolute monarch of Swaziland (eSwatini), told his parliament to ignore
calls for democratic change and instead embrace the culture that allows him and his family to
rule unhindered.
He was speaking at the opening of the 2020 parliament on Friday (31 January 2020).
The parliament has no powers and acts mainly as a rubber-stamp for the King. Political
parties are barred from taking part in elections and the King appoints the Prime Minister and
cabinet ministers. He also selects top judges and civil servants.
He appoints 10 of the 69 members of the House of Assembly. None of the 30 members of the
Swazi Senate are elected by the people.
Groups that advocate for democracy are banned under the Suppression of Terrorism Act.
The King told Parliament, ‘Democracy is tailored towards the cultural norms and beliefs of
each nation. we call upon all Emaswati [Swazi people] including those living abroad, to
remain true to their identity.
‘They should place the interest of our nation above their own. we should cherish our unity
and family relationship that has existed since our predecessors founded this great nation so
many years ago.’
He added, ‘God gave each nation its unique culture to practice and pass on to future
generations. there is no culture or ideology that is supreme which has to be imposed on other
nations of the world.’
In September 2013 King Mswati announced that Swaziland would be ruled by what he called
‘Monarchical Democracy.’ He said this meant he would take advice from his subjects before
making decisions that affected the kingdom.
The King has been under increasing criticism from democratic nations to allow his subjects
the opportunity to have political parties and elect their own government.
Following the 2018 national election the United Nations Human Rights Committee stated the
‘legitimacy and credibility’ of the election was ‘significantly hampered’ because political
parties were banned. The King had ‘excessive powers’ in the appointment of the
Government, Parliament and the judiciary, it stated.
43
It added, ‘The legitimacy and credibility of the elections was significantly hampered by the
design of the electoral mechanisms as a culture of political pluralism is lacking. There is
no freedom of genuine and pluralistic political debate, political parties are unable to register,
contest elections, field candidates or otherwise participate in the formation of a Government.’
Following the election King Mswati appointed six members of his Royal Family to the House
of Assembly and eight members to the Senate.
About seven in ten of the 1.3 million population of Swaziland live in abject poverty.
The King has been criticised internationally for his lavish lifestyle. He has two private
airplanes, at least 13 palaces and fleets of top-of-the-range cars. At his 50th birthday in 2018
he wore a watch worth US$1.6 million and a suit beaded with diamonds that weighed 6
kg. Days earlier he had taken delivery of his second private jet. This one, an Airbus A340,
cost US$13.2 to purchase but with VIP upgrades was estimated to have cost US$30 million.
In November 2019 King Mswati bought a fleet of Rolls-Royce cars for himself and his
family. Reports on the number purchased have ranged from 13 to 15 and they were reported
to have cost up to US$4 million.
In the same month Swaziland also bought him 126 BMW cars and motorbikes to escort the
Royal family around the kingdom.
By Richard Rooney
See also
The truth of ‘monarchical democracy’
New name for non-democracy
Swaziland absolute monarch given reminder of Commonwealth’s human rights values

2 February 2020
The Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland presented the absolute monarch of
Swaziland (eSwatini) King Mswati III with a copy of the Commonwealth Charter during her
visit to the kingdom.
The Charter sets out the Commonwealth’s commitment to democracy and human rights.
Swaziland is a member of the Commonwealth.
The King rules Swaziland where political parties are barred from taking part in elections. The
King choses the Prime minister and cabinet minister as well as job judges and civil servants.
Freedoms of expression, assembly and association are severely curtailed. Groups advocating
for democracy are banned under the Suppression of Terrorism Act.
44
Freedom House scored Swaziland 16 out of a possible 100 points in its Freedom in the World
2019 report. It concluded that Swaziland was ‘not free’.
The Commonwealth Secretary General met King Mswati at Ludzidzini, one of the King’s 13
palaces. About seven in ten of the 1.3 million population of Swaziland live in abject poverty.
Scotland was in Swaziland as part of a tour of Commonwealth countries.
The Commonwealth describes its Charter as ‘a document of the values and aspirations which
unite the Commonwealth – democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
‘The Charter expresses the commitment of member states to the development of free and
democratic societies and the promotion of peace and prosperity to improve the lives of all the
people of the Commonwealth. The Charter also acknowledges the role of civil society in
supporting the goals and values of the Commonwealth.’
On democracy the Charter states, ‘We recognise the inalienable right of individuals to
participate in democratic processes, in particular through free and fair elections in shaping the
society in which they live. Governments, political parties and civil society are responsible for
upholding and promoting democratic culture and practices and are accountable to the public
in this regard. Parliaments and representative local governments and other forms of local
governance are essential elements in the exercise of democratic governance.’
There have been many calls for Swaziland to be suspended from the Commonwealth because
of its poor human rights record.
Commonwealth Secretary General, Patricia Scotland presents the absolute monarch of

Swaziland King Mswati III with the Commonwealth Charter: Courtesy picture
See also
No let-up in restrictions of freedom of association and assembly in Swaziland: Human
Rights Watch
45
3 LGBTI
Swaziland refuses to register LGBTI human rights group because it is ‘annoying’

16 January 2020
An LGBTI rights group in Swaziland (eSwatini) has been denied permission to register
because its objectives are deemed ‘annoying’.
The Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorites (ESGM) was also told the Swazi Constitution did
not include sexual orientation on the list of protections against discrimination.
Melusi Simelane, Founder and Executive Director of ESGM, said this suggested the
government refused to recognise the existence of LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,
intersex, queer) people in the kingdom.
Simelane was writing in a report on LGBTI experiences in Swaziland recently published. He

said LGBTI identities were not criminalised in Swaziland but colonial laws that included the
crime of sodomy still existed. He said this suggested homosexuality was ‘simply about a
sexual act rather than a broader issue of love and respect’.
He added the outdated laws violated constitutional rights. He said despite the law the state did
not prosecute consenting adults.
The government has refused to register ESGM which would allow it to operate legally in the
kingdom.
Simelane said it wrote to the group saying it could not be registered ‘because the objects of
the organisation are “misleading” and “annoying”.
‘They quoted the common law contrary to their assumed policy of not prosecuting consenting
adults. This, coupled with the government blatantly saying the constitution doesn’t list sexual
orientation on the list of protections against discrimination, suggests that the government
refuses to recognise our existence and further our rights and freedoms.’
He added, ‘When addressing policy makers evidence of human rights violations is necessary
to make the case for LGBTIQ equality. In a society that scares people into silence and
invisibility, evidence becomes a scare commodity.’
A report published in 2019 written by two academics and the Southern and East African
Research Collective on Health found evidence of serious human rights violations against
Swazi people who are LGBTI. The report concluded they suffered ‘social exclusion,
marginalisation and stigma’ because they were seen as being different from the rest of the
population.
This, the report said, ‘has a negative impact on the mental health and wellbeing of people
who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex’.
46
Swaziland is a deeply conservative kingdom ruled by the absolute monarch King Mswati III.
The King has in the past described homosexuality as ‘satanic’ In May 2016 four
organisations jointly reported to the United Nations about LGBTI discrimination in
Swaziland. Part of their report stated, ‘LGBT[I]s are discriminated and condemned openly by
society. This is manifest in negative statements uttered by influential people in society e.g.,
religious, traditional and political leaders. Traditionalists and conservative Christians view
LGBT[I]s as against Swazi tradition and religion. There have been several incidents where
traditionalists and religious leaders have issued negative statements about lesbians.’
Swaziland Govt tells High Court LGBTI acts are illegal because they are ‘unnatural’
19 February 2020
A representative of the Swaziland (eSwatini) Government told the kingdom’s High Court
LGBTI people were ‘unnatural’ and their campaign group was unlawful.
Siboniso Nkambule, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade,
was opposing an application from the Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorities (ESGM) group
to be officially registered.
The Registrar of Companies had previously refused to register the association so that it could
operate legally in the kingdom. ESGM has a number of objectives including to advance the
protection of the rights of LGBTI people in Swaziland and reduce harm that affect their
wellbeing based upon sexual orientation and gender identity.
Nkambule told the court, ‘May I state that every other sexual action other than what is in the
order of nature, capable of producing offsprings is unnatural and, therefore, prohibited in
terms of our laws.’
The Times of eSwatini reported Nkambule said in an affidavit, ‘The actions of Eswatini
Sexual and Gender Minorities constitute unnatural action which ought to be stopped in our
society for purposes of our young generations as well as the public interest.’
The matter is still pending in court.
Discrimination against LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex) people in

Swaziland is widespread but in recent years they have become more visible and vocal. The
first ever Pride march took place in 2018.
See also
LGBTI discrimination in Swaziland leads to big mental health issues, report finds
LGBTI Pride film shows what it’s like to live with prejudice and ignorance in Swaziland
LGBTI Pride gets global attention
47
4 POLICE
Swaziland police shoot, kill epileptic man after family ask for help getting him to
hospital
7 January 2020
Swaziland (eSwatini) police officers shot a man with epilepsy in the neck at close range,
killing him.
His family had called police to help transport him to hospital for treatment. The killing
happened in front of the family and neighbours.
The man was named by the Times of eSwatini Sunday as Makhenikha Mkhwanazi, aged 54,
and a father of six.
His family want to know why police used live bullets on him.
It happened at the family home at Mdabula, Hlatikhulu, on 27 December 2019.
The Times reported, ‘The family has argued that the deceased was a known patient to the
police and it was not the first time they were called to transport him for treatment after
exhibiting violent behaviour. He was suffering from epilepsy.’
A police spokesperson told the Times the shot was fired in an attempt to scare the deceased
who had become too violent, but the bullet accidentally went in his neck.
Police in Swaziland have a long history of shooting to kill. In July 2019 police were criticised
in local media for shooting dead three men who escaped from Big Bend Correctional Facility.
They were hiding in a rondavel in a homestead at Manyeveni, near Mpaka.
There are several police shootings every year in Swaziland and not all of them relate to
criminals.
In 2012 police shot a 34-year-old mentally disturbed man seven times, killing him. They had
been called to a disturbance at his home at Lubulini. The man’s family said they had trouble
controlling him and asked for police assistance in getting him to a hospital.
See also
New ‘shoot-to-kill’ fear as Swaziland police gun down three suspects as they flee
Police killing, family demand answers
Swaziland democracy activists tell High Court police raids on their homes illegal
9 January 2020
48
Four democracy campaigners in Swaziland (eSwatini) whose homes were raided by police
and had phones and other gadgets confiscated appeared in the High Court to argue that the
raids were illegal.
They said the search warrants used were not valid.
The four were Sibongile Mazibuko, Musa Nkambule, Jan Sithole and Wandile Dludlu. They
are leaders of various political groups in Swaziland where King Mswati III rules as absolute
monarch. They all belong to the recently-formed Political Parties Assembly (PPA). Political
parties are banned from taking part in elections and groups that campaign for democracy are
outlawed under the Suppression of Terrorism Act.
Police raided homes of political activists across Swaziland after warrants were issued on 25
November and 19 December 2019.
The four said that the search warrants were illegal because they did not specify what the
police were looking for. They also said the warrants were issued by magistrates who did not
have authority to do so.
The case was heard on Wednesday (8 January 2020). A ruling is expected on 24 January
2020.
The Swaziland United Democratic Front, one of the groups targeted in the police raids, in a
statement circulated on social media at the time, said, ‘This comes weeks after the all
progressive formations in the country resolved to unite under the banner of the Political Party
Assembly to fight against the Tinkhundla regime. This led to the start of a campaign that was
dubbed #MSWATI MUST FALL and has since been gaining momentum and meeting equal
resistance from the autocratic regime.’
The Southern Africa Litigation Centre in a statement said, ‘We are concerned by the actions
of the police, which appear to be targeted at those activists who have been prominently
involved in protests relating to workers’ rights and who have been promoting multi-party
democracy and government accountability in the country.’
Swaziland democracy leaders lose High Court case against police raids on legal
technicality
13 February 2020
Prodemocracy campaigners in Swaziland (eSwatini) who had their homes raided and
property seized by police lost their High Court case calling the raids unconstitutional on a
legal technicality.
Police acting on warrants from the Manzini and Mbabane magistrates courts raided homes of
members of the newly-formed Political Parties Assembly (PPA) in December 2019.
49
Ngwane National Liberatory Congress (NNLC) President Sibongile Mazibuko; Chairman of

Sibanhle Sinje National Movement Musa Nkambule; People’ United Democratic Movement
(PUDEMO) Secretary General Wandile Dludlu and President of the Swaziland Democratic
Party (SWADEPA), Jan Sithole argued the warrants had been issued illegally.
Laptops, phones and other devices were confiscated by police in the raids.
High Court Judge Nkosinathi Maseko dismissed their application saying they should have
gone to the magistrates’ court to have the warrants overturned. Only if the magistrates
refused to do this, should they approach the High Court.
Previously the High Court had blocked the police from proceeding with arrests on the
strength of the warrants they obtained. Judge Maseko said this was no longer in force.
After the decision, Jan Sithole told the Swaziland News, an online newspaper, the PPA
leaders would attempt to appeal the High Court ruling.
Swaziland is ruled by King Mswati III as an absolute monarch. In the Swazi political system
known as tinkhundla parties are barred from taking part in elections and groups calling for
democracy are banned under the Suppression of Terrorism Act. The King appoints the Prime
Minister and government members as well as top judges and civil servants.
See also
Swaziland police in mass raids on homes of democracy activists, some detained
Police question Swaziland political leader amid fears of treason charge
Swaziland ex-Govt minister in hiding after calling on absolute monarch to hand over
power
Swaziland police say they raided democracy activists’ homes for ‘state security’
Man ‘thrown into fire’ in latest case of alleged police torture in Swaziland
9 February 2020
A newspaper in Swaziland (eSwatini) has reported the latest in a series of allegations of what
it called ‘torture’ by local police. A man said police threw him into a fire.
The Times of eSwatini, the only independent daily newspaper in the kingdom ruled by
absolute monarch King Mswati III, reported a 20-year-old man from Moyeni had received
hospital treatment for ‘bruises on his back, minor wounds on his waist and swollen arms’.
It reported police took Bongani Kunene to Siteki police station after he had allegedly
assaulted his cousin. Police also questioned him about other alleged offences.
The Times reported Kunene saying, ‘One of them [police officers] placed a plastic bag round
my head and another one hit me with his fists. I cried and shouted for help.’
Kunene was then bundled into a police van and driven to a remote forest.
50
The Times reported, ‘Kunene alleged that when they arrived in the forest he was handcuffed
and then dragged out of the police van.
‘He alleged that one of the officer tightened the handcuffs such that blood stopped
circulating on his two hands.’
Picture from Times of eSwatini showing injuries to Bongani Kunene
It added, ‘He alleged that one of the officers assaulted him with the blade of a bush knife and
that they slapped him several times ad further kicked all over the body.’
Kunene said police started a fire and threw him onto it but he crawled out of the flames.
Kunene said for days he was unable to walk properly because of the pain.
The Times listed another four cases of ‘similar incidences’ including a 27-year-old man from
Siteki who accused police of beating him until he wet himself.
In a separate case a 50-year-old woman from Magwanyana reported she wet herself as police
thrashed her all over her body with batons.
Magistrates in Swaziland have a number of times criticised police for beating up suspects.
In January 2019, Magistrate Sindisile Zwane at Mbabane said she had noticed a number of
suspects came before her in court with bruises and swollen faces and other parts of their
bodies.
The Swazi Observer reported at the time the numbers were increasing significantly. The
newspaper added she said police should be able to question people without beating them up.
In March 2018 Principal Magistrate at Manzini David Khumalo told police they must not
beat suspects after a man appeared in court with injuries all over his body.
51
There have been many allegations of police assault in recent times. In November 2018 it was
reported a man from Mangwaneni was left close to death after being allegedly assaulted by
two officers at a police station. He suffered severe internal bleeding, heart seizures, the
swelling of his kidneys and nerve damage on both his arms and legs.
In September 2018 four women were reportedly beaten with sjamboks and pipes and scalded
with boiling water at Siteki police station. Two of them needed hospital treatment for burns
and blisters. They were accused of stealing from shops.
In June 2016 a United Nations review panel looking into human rights in Swaziland was told
in a joint report by four organisations, ‘In Mbabane [the Swazi capital], police tortured a 15-
year-old boy after his mother had reported him for stealing E85.00 (US$6). The boy alleges
that he was beaten with a slasher (metal blade tool for cutting grass) and knobkerrie [club] for
five hours. While enduring the pain, he alleges that he was made to count the strokes aloud
for the police to hear. Instead of being charged, the boy was physically assaulted and made to
sit in a chair for thirty minutes before he was sent back home.’
The report was submitted to the United Human Rights Council Working Group on the
Universal Periodic Review of Swaziland by the Swaziland Multi-Media Community
Network, Swaziland Concerned Church Leaders, Swaziland Coalition of Concerned Civic
Organisations and Constituent Assembly – Swaziland.
See also
‘Horror tale of Swazi police torture’
52
5 BUDGET, PUBLIC FINANCES
IMF reports Swaziland public debt rising, foreign reserves fallen ‘below adequate
levels’
11 February 2020
The economy in Swaziland (eSwatini) continues in free-fall. Public debt is still rising,
domestic arrears have grown, and international currency reserves have fallen ‘below adequate
levels,’ the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported.
The growth in private investment is slowing and declining external competitiveness is

hindering the kingdom’s growth prospects. Now, 40 percent of the population is living in
extreme poverty and unemployment is high.
The IMF report published on Tuesday (11 February 2020) came after the group’s latest visit
to the kingdom ruled by absolute monarch King Mswati III.
The IMF reported, ‘Economic indicators are expected to remain weak. GDP growth [the total
value of goods and services in the kingdom] is projected to temporarily pick up in 2020, as
the government plans to repay some arrears, but growth would be subdued afterwards as
fiscal imbalances persist and the private sector remains hamstrung.’
The IMF predicted the government’s deficit was expected to remain large and public debt
would rise to above 60 percent of GDP over the medium-term and contribute to further
reduce international currency reserves.
Swaziland’s economy has been in freefall for many years. The government which is not
elected by the people but handpicked by King Mswati has failed to pay its suppliers. Public
services across the kingdom have ground to a halt with reports of people dying for lack of
medicines and children going hungry because the government was unable to pay suppliers of
meals for children.
Last week (5 February 2020) Swazi Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg said government
suppliers and service providers would have to wait six more weeks for their payments. The
government had previously promised payments would be made by the end of January 2020.
Previously, the deadline for payment had been set at the end of September 2019.
It is unclear how much the government owes and it has itself reported the figure as E4.2
billion and E2.2 billion.
Rijkenberg reported the Office of the Auditor General and the Office of Internal Audit were
trying to verify how much was owed.
In November 2019 the Swazi parliament approved a bill to allow government to seek a E2
billion loan from the AFREXIM Bank to clear arrears and for other expenditure.
53
In 2017 Business Insider reported King Mswati had a net worth of US$200 million (about E3
billion in local Swazi currency). The King rules a population of about 1.3 million people and
seven in ten of them live in abject poverty with incomes of less than E30 per day.
See also
Swaziland breaks promise to pay off its suppliers to halt public services meltdown
More deaths in Swaziland as government fails to pay medicine suppliers
Swaziland schoolchildren learn under trees or in tents as government runs out of money
Swaziland to increase spending on internal security as prodemocracy groups continue

protests
14 February 2020
Swaziland (eSwatini) ruled by absolute monarch King Mswati III is to spend more money on
national security in the coming year, the Swazi Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg announced
in his annual budget.
Prodemocracy campaigners have been active in recent years and police and security forces
have used violence to break up legal demonstrations.
Rijkenberg did not put a figure on the additional expenditure in his speech on Friday (14
February 2020).
He told the Swazi Parliament, ‘Support to our security forces as we pursue economic stability
and growth in the country is key to sustainable development of our nation. This budget seeks
to strengthen public order management and state security systems which are important factors
in ensuring that the country’s safety and security landscape is conducive for investment.’
The security forces include the army, police force and correctional services.
In recent years police and other security services have been criticised outside the kingdom for
their brutal attacks on legal demonstrations. Swaziland is not a democracy and political
parties are barred from taking part in elections. Groups advocating for democracy are banned
under the Suppression of Terrorism Act.
In Swaziland the King chooses the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers. He also picks senior
judges and senior civil servants.
Following elections in 2018, King Mswati appointed eight members of his Royal Family to
the kingdom’s 30-member Senate and another six to the House of Assembly.
54
In September 2019 police had used teargas, rubber bullets, water cannon and live ammunition
during a strike by public servants. At least 15 people were injured. The violence happened in
Mbabane after what local media called ‘a long day of peaceful protest’. The police brutality
was condemned by international human rights observers.
In September 2018 the Swazi Police were criticised by human rights groups when they
attacked workers led by the Trades Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) who were
demonstrating in Manzini for salary increases, a national minimum wage and an increase in
elderly grants (pensions). Police used teargas and stun-grenades.
Videos and photographs of brutal police attacks were uploaded on social media.
Swaziland Human Rights Network UK in a statement at the time said, ‘The violent attack on
peacefully demonstrating TUCOSWA members is reprehensible as it was a violation of their
constitutional right to freedom of assembly and expression.’
It added, ‘The eSwatini government has turned the country into a violent police state where
the security services have been turned into tools of suppression to protect the interests of not
just the government but the regime of King Mswati III.’
The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) said in its statement following the
budget speech, ‘This means labour unions and other civil society organisations shall be
silenced, violently so and no voices of dissent will be allowed. Citizens must keep quiet, toe
the line and that equals to peace, money has been set aside to procure guns and all sorts of
artillery for that exercise. This is what dictatorships are known for, world over.’
See also
Swaziland police fire rubber bullets and teargas injuring 15 during national strike
Swaziland democracy leaders call on absolute monarch to arrange talks for political change
Reporting of Swaziland Govt finances fails to meet international standards, auditor

general states
18 February 2020
Government finances in Swaziland (eSwatini) continue to be in a mess with widespread

misreporting of assets and liabilities, the kingdom’s auditor general reported.
Timothy Matsebula listed a catalogue of errors that included bank balances that were
misstated by nearly E125 million because government cash books did not tally with bank
statements.
The figures were part of the auditor general’s annual report for the year ended 31 March 2019
just published. He described the reporting as ‘unacceptable’ and said it did not conform to
international standards.
55
Matsebula reported, ‘Other bank balances were understated by E16,682,280.78 in aggregate;

thus, reflecting an incorrect cash position of the Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini at
year end.’
He also highlighted a bank balance that had nearly E1 billion IMF Special Drawings Rights
had not been disclosed.
The auditor general found assets amounting to E1.9 million were incorrectly classified as
liabilities in the Detailed Statement of Liabilities. ‘These bank balances were reported as
overdrawn bank accounts whereas bank statements showed that the accounts had positive
balances, as at the year end.’
Elsewhere, overstated liability account balances amounted to E403 million while understated
liability account balances amounted to E87 million.
Matsebula also found there had been unauthorised over-expenditure of E845 million in
recurrent expenditure budget. There was also unauthorised over-expenditure of E16 million
in the capital expenditure budget.
Matsebula concluded, ‘I draw attention to the presentation and disclosures in the financial
statements which reflect an unacceptable financial reporting framework. The current financial
reporting practice does not conform to any internationally recognised financial reporting
framework and does not present the Government Accounts (Financial Statements) fairly in
some accounting areas.’
This is not the first time the auditor general has found the government accounts to be
inadequate. Last year billions of emalangeni could not be accounted for. In his annual report
for the 2018 Matsebula stated government revenue, assets, and liabilities ‘were materially
misstated’. He said in some cases it was impossible to reconcile government cash books with
bank statements.
The AG reported then, ‘Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered
material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence
the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these Financial Statements.’
See also
Govt ministries broke law on spending
Govt ministries in financial mess
Swaziland MPs back auditor general and freeze budgets of public enterprises
11 March 2020
A number of public enterprises in Swaziland (eSwatini) are to have their budgets from
government frozen because they have not submitted financial returns.
56
Members of the Swazi House of Assembly adopted a recommendation from Auditor General
Timothy Matsebula.
They said the budget subventions for the parastatals should be withheld until financial
statements were forthcoming. Up to E890 million in funding could be frozen.
Matsebula had drawn attention to the shortcoming in his annual report for 2019 published in
February 2020. They are obliged by law to make the returns. Some are believed to have since
delivered.
The public enterprises that were not audited during the period under review included
eSwatini National Trust Commission, eSwatini Water and Agricultural Development
Enterprise, University of eSwatini , eSwatini Medical Christian University, Southern Africa
Nazarene University, eSwatini Television Broadcasting Corporation, Royal Science and
Technology Park Authority, Royal Swazi Airline, Youth Affairs for Youth Development
Fund, National Youth Council and eSwatini Sports Council.
In his report the Auditor General also highlighted that it was now ‘a norm for ministries,
departments and agencies to spend beyond the appropriated budget and/or on activities that
have no budget provision by Parliament, and to incur expenditure without seeking approval
from the relevant authorities’.
He found there was an over expenditure of E1.1 billion in the recurrent expenditure released
budget of E15.2 billion.
He said, ‘It is disquieting to observe such significant over expenditures, unauthorised

expenditure, and unaudited public funds to public enterprises, while the country is faced with
fiscal challenges.’
Swaziland is broke and is unable to pay suppliers. Hospitals have run out of drugs and
schools are without teaching tools. Children at school have gone hungry because the
government has not paid suppliers for their meals.
57
6 MEDIA
Newspaper editor flees Swaziland for second time after arrest and police torture
9 March 2020
Zweli Martin Dlamini, the editor of the Swaziland News, has fled Swaziland (eSwatini) for
the second time after being arrested and tortured by police who accused him of sedition.
Dlamini told South Africa Broadcasting Corporation’s (SABC) Media Monitor programme
on Sunday (8 March 2020) police raided his home after he published articles in the online
newspaper that were critical of King Mswati III, who rules Swaziland as an absolute
monarch.
Dlamini said police raided his home at about 5.30 am with a search warrant and took away
his laptop and electronic gadgets. He said they took a photograph of his four-year-old son and
asked which preschool he attended.
Dlamini was then taken to Mbabane police station where 20 officers were waiting for him.
They questioned him about an article he wrote in the newspaper headlined ‘King Mswati’s
speech is actually a lie from the throne’ which criticised the King’s speech at the opening of
parliament on 31 January 2020. They also questioned him over an article: ‘Buganu: Who
gave the King power to call our wives for a sex ceremony.’
Dlamini said in his interview, ‘They [police] said now that I am before them I must forget
about my rights.’
Zweli Martin Dlamini
He added, ‘They then suffocated me with a plastic bag. They tied me up.’
He was released after about eight hours. He told SABC he left Swaziland to get a medical
check-up following the police assault. He said he did not feel safe to return to the kingdom.
He said he thought King Mswati had a hand in his arrest and the King had pressurised police
to deal with him over his articles.
58
On 7 February 2020, The Swaziland News reported Dlamini was being harassed and
receiving death threats from King Mswati’s first born daughter Princess Sikhanyiso, who is
the Minister of Information Communication and Technology.
Dlamini had previously fled to South Africa in fear of his life in 2018. He had received death
threats from a local businessman and his newspaper Swaziland Shopping was shut down by
the Swazi government.
See also
Exiled editor Zweli Martin Dlamini to return to Swaziland
‘Editor flees after death threat’
Swazi Government forces newspaper to close
Swaziland journalist ‘tortured by police after criticising absolute monarch in

newspaper articles’
14 March 2020
Swaziland journalist and former government cabinet minister Mfomfo Nkambule said he was
tortured by police after he wrote articles critical of absolute monarch King Mswati III.
Nkambule writes for the online newspaper Swaziland News.
In an interview he told the newspaper that on Thursday (12 March 2020) police raided his
home and seized electronic gadgets. He said he was taken to Manzini police regional
headquarters where he was harassed and tortured.
He told the Swaziland News, ‘They tortured me saying I risk being charged with high treason
and under the terrorism law.’ He said police complained about articles he wrote critical of the
political system.
In Swaziland political parties are barred from contesting elections. Groups that advocate for
democracy are banned under the Suppression of Terrorism Act. King Mswati appoints the
prime minister and the cabinet. He also chooses top judges and civil servants.
Swazi police spokesman Superintendent Phindile Valakati, told the newspaper, ‘We
summoned Nkambule seeking clarity on his published articles. However, we didn’t torture
him.’
59
Mfomfo Nkambule
Earlier this week the editor of Swaziland News Zweli Martin Dlamini told the South African
Broadcasting Corporation’s Media Monitor programme that police raided his home after he
published articles in his newspaper. He said police tied him up and suffocated him with a
plastic bag. He was speaking from South Africa and said he feared returning to Swaziland
(eSwatini).
In December 2019, Dlamini called for an investigation after Nkambule reported he had been
the victim of an attempt by a government minister and members of an elite group linked to
the Swazi Royal Family to poison him at a braai.
This followed an article in Swaziland News in which Nkambule wrote, ‘He [the King] has
given us the status of servants in this country. As servants, we do not have any right
whatsoever. We have no right to vote, no right to form political parties, no right to form a
government of our choice, no power to legislate and to appropriate resources. We need a
referendum on the King!’
Nkambule has been a critic of the political system in Swaziland and the role of the monarch
for many years.
He attracted international attention in 2008 and 2009 for outspoken articles he wrote each
week in the Times of Swaziland, the kingdom’s only independent daily newspaper.
Nkambule specialised in criticising Swazi Royalty and the traditionalists who supported the
King.
Nkambule, who had formerly been Health and Social Welfare Minister appointed by the
King, was hauled in by Swaziland’s state police and threatened with torture if he continued to
criticise the King.
60
He was later dropped from his traditional regiment, threatened with banishment from his
homeland, and his family was threatened because he refused to be silenced.
See also
‘Attempt made to poison journalist critic of Swaziland’s absolute monarch,’
Media standards in Swaziland poor, need for wide-ranging reforms, report states
19 March 2020
The media in Swaziland (eSwatini) need wide-ranging reforms but these will be difficult
because of the kingdom’s ‘repressive political environment’, a new report found.
The standard of journalism in the kingdom where King Mswati III rules as an absolute
monarch need to improve, the African Media Barometer (AMB) said.
It said there were ‘challenges with regards to accuracy and fairness’.
It said there had been some improvements in recent years but, ‘issues such as unbalanced
stories, misquotes, exaggerated headlines as well as spelling and grammatical errors mar
reporting standards’.
The AMB report was written by a panel of 12 people all working in Swaziland. There were
five from the media and seven from civil society. They met over three days in October 2018.
In its report AMB said, ‘Another challenge is the skewed reporting of eSwatini society. The
media do not always fairly represent all voices in society, including minorities. For instance,
women’s voices in the media continue to be marginalised to a great extent while content
continues to be male-dominated. Similarly lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and
queer (LGBTIQ) issues are not often covered by the media and when they are, they are
reported in a negative way. Persons with disabilities are also marginalised both in news
content and in the newsrooms.’
AMB also found, ‘Self-censorship and corruption, which are common in newsrooms, also
affect media professionalism and the integrity of the news. Panellists pointed to the extremely
low salaries combined with the poor working conditions of journalists as a cause of
corruption.
‘Corruption is not only prevalent amongst the lowest paid journalists, but also occurs with
editors and managers. The close relationship between the media and political or business
elites contributes to corrupt behaviour in the higher echelons of the media.’
The wide-ranging 65-page report added, ‘Lack of ‘access to information’ legislation ensures
that accessing public information is difficult. The Official Secrets Act and other cultural
practices restrict the media in their efforts to obtain information and report freely on the
activities of government. Accessing information for ordinary citizens, particularly those in
61
rural communities, is not easy. In 2007, the government released a draft Freedom of
Information and Protection of Privacy Bill, however, 11 years later, the Bill has not been
passed.’
AMB concluded, ‘There is no doubt that eSwatini needs wide ranging media reforms. This
could be achieved through a concerted advocacy effort by civil society organisations.
However, over the years, the effectiveness of civil society has declined due to the repressive
political environment and dwindling donor funding. The Swaziland National Association of
Journalists (SNAJ) needs resuscitation to ensure its effectiveness. The Media Workers Union
of Swaziland (MWUS) needs to be inclusive of media organisations including the Times of
Swaziland, the only independent newspaper in the country. The recently formed Swaziland
Media Consortium (SMC) made up of eight media bodies is a step in the right direction. The
SMC operates under the Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organisations.’
See also
Journalists in Swaziland endure year of harassment as they try to do their jobs
Increase in support for free press
Making media freedom in Swaziland is more than a dream
Swaziland Govt minister is far from truth when she praises media freedom in kingdom
Censorship total at Swazi state media
62
7 CHINA AND TAIWAN
China closes embassies to Swazi people to force kingdom to drop support for Taiwan
3 February 2020
China has closed all its embassies except in South Africa to Swaziland (eSwatini) people
seeking visas to visit the country for leisure of business.
In a statement it said the move could ‘cripple’ Swaziland’s business and economic
development. China is Swaziland’s second largest trading partner.
The People’s Republic of China (PRC) wants Swaziland to end diplomatic relations with
Taiwan. Taiwan broke away from China in 1949 and has been largely unrecognised in the
international community since then.
Taiwan, which calls itself the Republic of China, is not a member of the United Nations
which has a ‘one-China’ policy that recognises Taiwan is a part of China.
Swaziland is the only country in Africa and only one of 17 in the world that recognises
Taiwan.
A statement from Lin Songtian, the Ambassador of the PRC to South Africa, was published
in the Swaziland News, an online newspaper.
The statement read in part, ‘The eSwatini people have come to realize the fact that the long-
existing immoral and abnormal relations between their country and the Taiwan Authority, a
region of China, does not serve the fundamental and long-term interests of the eSwatini and
its people.’
It added Swaziland had been benefiting greatly from business relations with the PRC while
refusing to recognize the one-China policy.
‘Such an immoral and abnormal situation is unfair and unacceptable to the Chinese
government and people and cannot, shall not, be allowed to continue,’ the statement said.
It added, ‘As a friendly gesture and transitional arrangement, the Chinese government has no
choice but to close all the windows in the world, except the Embassy of the PRC in Pretoria
for eSwatini people both officially and privately to apply visas to Mainland China.
‘The responsibility for the difficulties and inconvenience arose therefrom does not come from
the Chinese side.’ It said the door of the Chinese Embassy in South Africa was open for the
Swaziland government to talk and find a solution.
‘But one thing must be clear that no diplomatic relations, no more business benefits.’
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It added, ‘The ball is on the court of eSwatini side. It is the right time for the eSwatini
government and people to make a right choice for win-win cooperation or continue to keep
silent to and remain the immoral and abnormal relations with Taiwan, as a region of China.’
Thulie Dladla, the Swazi Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Corporation would not
comment on the statement.
Jeremy Liang, the Ambassador of Taiwan in Swaziland told the Swaziland News the conduct
of the PRC amounted to ‘bullying and interfering’ in the affairs of eSwatini.
Swaziland makes a lot of its relationship with Taiwan. In 2018 Taiwan gave King Mswati III,
the absolute monarch, US$1.3 million towards the cost of his 50th birthday celebration. In
April 2018 the King called on the United Nations to admit Taiwan to the organisation.
Many Taiwanese-owned businesses in Swaziland, especially in textiles, have been criticised

for their poor treatment of workers who have staged strikes and other protests to draw
attention to the situation.
In July 2014 a survey of the Swazi textile industry undertaken by the Trade Union Congress
of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) revealed workers were subjected to harsh and sometimes abusive
conditions, many of the kingdom’s labour laws were routinely violated by employers, and
union activists were targeted by employers for punishment. More than 90 percent of workers
surveyed reported being punished by management for making errors, not meeting quotas or
missing shifts.
More than 70 percent of survey respondents reported witnessing verbal and physical abuse in
their workplace by supervisors.
In November 2018 it was reported students from Swaziland studying in Taiwan were being
made to work in a frozen chicken factory for 40 hours a week to pay for tuition and
accommodation. If they tried to leave their university would punish them and their condition
were likened to slavery.
See also
Swaziland students in Taiwan forced to work ‘like slaves’ in frozen chicken factory
Taiwan first guest at King’s party
Swaziland calls on UN to admit Taiwan
Swaziland’s King Mswati under pressure from China to end support for Taiwan
By Peter Kenworthy, Afrika Kontakt, 7 February 2020
Western countries have not exerted much pressure on Swaziland’s absolute monarchy to
rectify its lack of democracy and human rights. Neither has another democracy, the People’s
Republic of China, more commonly known as Taiwan. A country with whom Swaziland
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(renamed Eswatini by King Mswati III in 2018) – as the only country In Africa – has
diplomatic ties with.
The UN has not recognized Taiwan since it switched its diplomatic recognition to China in
1971.
In a statement on Swaziland-Taiwan relations from July 2019, government spokesperson

Percy Simelane spoke of the “unbroken diplomatic relations” between the two countries,
since Swaziland’s independence in 1968.
- This relationship is based on mutual respect, friendship and loyalty … Our commitment to
strong diplomatic ties with Taiwan remains unshaken and enduring, he added.
Swaziland has thus far decided to stay loyal to its relationship with Taiwan, says Swazi
political activist and former president of the Swaziland Youth Congress, Bheki Dlamini.
Dlamini, who has a degree in public administration from the University of Bergen, adds that
China has been turning a blind eye to Swaziland’s support of Taiwan, and Taiwan’s aid and
donations to Swaziland. But that the few other states that had diplomatic relations with
Taiwan – such as Burkina Faso and the Gambia – have severed their ties with the island state.
- Swaziland has not been persuaded otherwise, but remains committed to Taiwan. Until
recently, China has not publicly denounced the Taiwan-Swaziland relationship. In a turn of
events China is now denying visas to people from Swaziland, he says.
Win-win or Catch 22?
In a statement, the Chinese ambassador to South Africa says:

- Since 10 January, some Eswatini people realized that all the Embassies and Consulate-
Generals of the people’s Republic of China (PRC), except the Embassy of China to Pretoria,
have been closed for Eswatini citizens to apply for visas to mainland China, which will
cripple their business and the country’s economy development.
- Such an embarrassing situation is the result of Eswatini defying the One-China Principle
and maintaining so-called “diplomatic ties” with the Taiwan authorities … It is the right time
for the Eswatini government and people to make a right choice for win-win cooperation, the
letter adds.
Bheki Dlamini believes that Swaziland is thus in something of a Catch 22-situation, regarding
Chinese pressure.
- The free lunch from Taiwan is good for the royal family, which has the luxury of behaving
like Taiwan’s spoilt child. But Taiwan needs Swaziland more than China needs Swaziland. If
Swaziland dumps Taiwan for China, the monarchy will lose the financial and political
benefits it reaps from Taiwan. However, going with China might be no guarantee that China
will supersede Taiwan in development aid and donation to Swaziland, Dlamini says.
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- But this will certainly benefit ordinary Swazis who want to explore business, educational
and other opportunities offered by China. Can the monarchy truly withstand pressure from
China and for how long? The monarchy is used to Swaziland getting away from any form of
international scrutiny because of size, be it on human rights or democracy. However, I doubt
it will escape the Chinese pressure, he adds.
See also
Swaziland calls on UN to admit Taiwan
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8 SCHOOLS
Swaziland Government blocks funds to primary schools in row over pupil numbers
7 January 2020
The Government in Swaziland (eSwatini) is refusing to release funds to some primary

schools again this year as a row continues about how pupils are registered.
It will mean money will not be available for teacher and staff salaries and for vital supplies.
In the past when funds were not paid some schools closed.
The problem has been happening for the past two years but the government has still not
solved it.
It revolves around PIN numbers (personal identification numbers) for children which are
issued by the government. Schools are paid funds against a PIN, not the name of a pupil. The
amount of grant given depends on the number of pupils enrolled at the school. Many children
do not have the numbers and the regional education offices have not been able to verify all
those who do.
Many schools failed to meet a December 2019 deadline to submit PINs so will not get the
free primary education (FPE) grants that the government is required to pay under the
Swaziland Constitution. There are about 650 primary schools with about 240,000 pupils in
Swaziland.
Minister of Education and Training Lady Howard-Mabuza, told the Times of eSwatini the
problem of late submissions had been going on for years.
She told the newspaper about E3 million was due to be paid in funds.
Last year schools across Swaziland were forced to close because money was not available to
pay for supplies such as electricity, chalk and paper.
See also
Chaos and confusion across Swaziland as new school year starts
Primary schools grinding to a halt
Swaziland schools run out supplies, exams threatened, as govt financial meltdown bites
Six in ten school support staff in Swaziland not paid for three months as financial crisis
bites
14 January 2020
Six in ten people working as support staff in schools across Swaziland (eSwatini) have not
been paid for the past three months, a trade union reported.
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Phumelele Zulu of the Swaziland Union in Learning and Allied Institutions (SULAI) said 60
percent of its 860 members were owed salaries dating back to October last year.
In total they were owed more than E5 million.
Swaziland which is ruled by King Mswati III as an absolute monarch is in financial

meltdown and public services across the kingdom are grinding to a halt.
The Times of eSwatini reported Zulu said the Swazi Government had not released money to
pay for the Free Primary Education (FPE) programme.
Zulu said, ‘The situation, particularly in rural schools, is worse as infrastructure is dilapidated
and needs serious upgrading. Paint on the walls is peeling off and windows are broken. We
have been raising these issues with the Ministry of Education and Training and urging them
to at least find a strategy that would see the grants being released on time to schools but to
this day, nothing has changed.’
In July 2019 Minister of Education and Training Lady Howard-Mabuza met school principals
as schools in the kingdom crumbled through lack of funding.
The Swazi Government had not paid schools fees and support staff were sacked as a result.
Teaching supplies ran out and in some schools pupils had been without a teacher for more
than a year.
The Minister said that plans for building new schools had been put on hold and hiring of
teaching staff was frozen.
More than six in ten schools in Swaziland did not have enough teachers because of
government financial cutbacks, the Eswatini Principals Association (EPA) President
Welcome Mhlanga had previously said.
Howard-Mabuza said the government was broke and could not afford to finance education.
The problem is not new as the government, appointed by King has run the economy into the
ground over many years. Public services across the kingdom, including health, education and
policing are crumbling. The government owes its suppliers about E3 billion (US$215
million).
In July 2019 teachers and school principals marched on government to present a petition
calling for urgent action.
Swaziland pupils boycott classes in protest against teacher shortage

12 March 2020
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Pupils at a school in Swaziland (eSwatini) boycotted classes in protest at a shortage of

teachers.
Education is in crisis across the kingdom because the government is broke. Many schools are
short of teachers and support staff and without basic supplies because the government has not
paid suppliers.
The protest took place at KaMkhweli High School on Wednesday (11 March 2020). Pupils
had also protested last month.
In the latest protest police were called after senior pupils led a class boycott and chanted
slogans and waved tree branches at the school gates.
The Times of eSwatini reported, ‘According to a source, since the beginning of the year, Form
V pupils have not been learning science subjects, geography and history because there are no
teachers specialising in the aforementioned subjects.’
It added some pupils allegedly made threats against teachers.
They returned to classes after Siphofaneni Member of Parliament Mduduzi Simelane

mediated between pupils and school authorities.
Police said no damage was done to property during the protest.
Public services across Swaziland, where King Mswati III rules as an absolute monarch, are in
meltdown because the government he handpicked is broke.
In January 2020 it was reported six in ten school support staff had not been paid for the
previous three months.
Phumelele Zulu of the Swaziland Union in Learning and Allied Institutions (SULAI) said 60
percent of its 860 members were owed salaries amounting to E5 million.
In July 2019 Minister of Education and Training Lady Howard-Mabuza met school principals
as schools in the kingdom crumbled through lack of funding.
The Swazi Government had not paid schools fees and support staff were sacked as a result.
Teaching supplies ran out and in some schools pupils had been without a teacher for more
than a year.
The Minister said that plans for building new schools had been put on hold and hiring of
teaching staff was frozen.
More than six in ten schools in Swaziland did not have enough teachers because of
government financial cutbacks, the eSwatini Principals Association (EPA) President
Welcome Mhlanga had previously said.
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Howard-Mabuza said the government was broke and could not afford to finance education.
The problem is not new as the government has run the economy into the ground over many
years. Public services across the kingdom, including health, education and policing are
crumbling. It is unclear how much the government owes and it has itself reported the figure
as E4.2 billion (US$260 million) and E2.2 billion.
See also
Swaziland breaks promise to pay off its suppliers to halt public services meltdown
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9 WOMEN
Swaziland woman faces 30 years in jail for selling ‘abortion pills’
8 February 2020
A woman in Swaziland (eSwatini) has been sentenced to 30 years jail with the option of a
E45,000 fine for selling pills that induced abortion.
Celucolo Gaolaolwe, aged 41, herself a mother of five children, had been selling Cytotec pills
for about 10 years, the eSwatini Observer reported.
Under the Swazi Constitution abortion is illegal in Swaziland except under strict
circumstances, including where a mother’s life is in danger.
Gaolaolwe was sentenced at the Municipal Council of Mbabane offices by Principal

Magistrate Fikile Nhlabatsi. Gaolaolwe was also convicted of forging prescriptions to get the
pills.
Gaolaolwe admitted that she sold each tablet for E150 and made more than E31,000 from her
trade.
Because abortions are illegal in Swaziland it is difficult to say accurately how many are
performed in the kingdom. However, in August 2018 the Times of Swaziland reported that
every month, nurses at the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital in Manzini attended
more than 100 cases of young women who had committed illegal abortions.
The IRIN news agency, quoting the Family Life Association of Swaziland (FLAS), a family
planning organization, reported that in October 2012 more than 1,000 women were treated
for abortion-related complications at a single clinic in Swaziland. Many of the deaths were
the result of haemorrhaging, while others resulted from the patient’s delay in seeking medical
treatment for other complications stemming from illegal terminations.
In November 2012 the IRIN news agency reported that 16 percent of all women deaths in the
government hospital in Mbabane that year were the result of botched abortions. It said that
this figure was only those cases that were reported, there were certainly other deaths
unreported.
In December 2018 the Swazi Observer reported the number of illegal ‘backstreet’ abortions
taking place in Swaziland was ‘escalating’ because social media had made it easier to obtain
abortion pills.
See also
Death of Swaziland schoolgirl after illegal abortion highlights suffering of women in
kingdom
U.S. halts funding to Swaziland NGO as anti-abortion policy bites
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Swaziland court threatens woman, 19, with jail for wearing miniskirt in public
27 February 2020
A 19-year-old woman in Swaziland (eSwatini) was sentenced to three months in jail with the
option of a fine for wearing a miniskirt in public.
It happened in Luvumisa, a town near the border with South Africa.
The Times of eSwatini reported she was stopped on the street by police and told to change her
clothes. She was seen about two hours later still wearing the miniskirt and was arrested.
She appeared at court in Luvumisa and was sentenced to three months jail with an option of
an E300 fine.
The Times reported the court was told the woman’s underwear was visible under the skirt.
It is a stated policy in Swaziland to arrest women who wear miniskirts.
In late 2012 Swaziland Police announced that women found wearing a miniskirt in public
would be arrested and face a fine or imprisonment. Swazi Police official spokesperson
Wendy Hleta told the Times Sunday newspaper that it would only take one complaint for a
woman in a miniskirt to be arrested. She said police would use a law dating from 1889.
She was commenting after police stopped a march by women protesting at the harassment
they received from men when they wore miniskirts or other clothes such as low-cut jeans or
crop tops that displayed their stomachs. The men wanted them to wear clothes they
considered more appropriate to Swazi tradition.
In the course of the interview Hleta said that men might be tempted to rape women who wore
skimpy clothes.
By coincidence around the same date the Times of Swaziland published a letter from a
woman who recounted a trip she and her female friend made to Manzini police station to
report a crime. She was wearing a miniskirt and her friend shorts.
She said five male officers verbally attacked them. Among the comments made by the police
officers were, ‘You b******, go and get dressed or remove yourselves from our presence.
‘Can’t you hear that we are telling you to go and dress appropriately first? Or have you come
to solicit here? This is not a prostitution site.’ And , ‘Go before we do you harm.’
In July 2019, Vulimpompi Nhleko, the member of parliament for Nkwene, urged the Ministry
of Home Affairs to condemn women who wore ‘skimpy’ clothes to church. He spoke during
a debate in the Swazi House of Assembly.
See also
Woman in pants banned from election
Chief makes woman in pants strip
72
10 AND THE REST …
Bald-headed scalping rises new fear of ritual use of body parts in Swaziland
12 February 2020
Bald-headed people might be the latest target in Swaziland (eSwatini) to have body parts
used for ritual purposes.
A man who died of natural causes later had his scalp cut off. His family believe this was used
in a ritual or as part of a magic potion, the Times of eSwatini reported on Tuesday (11
February 2020).
The Times reported Mjalimane Myeni, believed to be in his 70s, was mutilated at his
homestead in Dzakasini.
It added, ‘This has raised fears that some people are now targeting bald-headed men to have
their heads or scalps used in rituals or muti.
‘The country is notorious for ritual killings where people are believed to be murdered for the
harvesting of certain body parts which are said to be used in muti to enhance people’s
wealth.’
Police reported that Myeni had his scalp cut off while his corpse was kept in a house.
His son Phondo Myeni told the newspaper some unknown people broke into the house while
the family was arranging transport of the body to the morgue.
The Times reported, ‘He said family members were only speculating on the motivation for
cutting off the scalp, basing it on the common superstition about bald individuals being rich.’
People with albinism, a hereditary condition that causes an absence of skin pigmentation,
have been targeted in Swaziland in the past. In 2018, ahead of the national election, there was
widespread reporting of abductions across the kingdom. It was believed that body parts were
being used to bring good luck to candidates running for the House of Assembly.
In June 2017, during a voter-education workshop, Swaziland’s Elections and Boundaries

Commission (EBC) called for an end to ritual killings around voting time. It was concerned
about reports of people mysteriously disappearing across the kingdom.
At the previous election in 2013, The Swaziland Epilepsy Association warned that cases of
the abduction of epileptic people always increased during elections. Mbuso Mahlalela from
the association told the Swazi Observer at the time it was common for the vulnerable to be
targeted and abducted. He spoke after a report that a 13-year-old epileptic boy might have
been abducted for ritual purposes.
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Before the election in 2008 a march by civil society groups to draw attention to ritual killings
was banned by the government amid fears that it would bring bad publicity to Swaziland and
might embarrass King Mswati III, the kingdom’s absolute monarch, who had spoken out
against the practice.
The Times of Swaziland reported at the time the march had been motivated by the mystery
disappearances and murders of women. Some of these had been found mutilated fuelling
speculating that they were related to rituals.
In 2008, it was strongly rumoured in Swaziland that the reason why members of the
government wanted to ban discussion on the ritual murders was that some of them had
themselves used muti to get elected.
In January 2017, the Director of Public Prosecution’s office in Swaziland told witchdoctors in
the kingdom to stop murdering people for body parts. The witchdoctors, also known as
tinyanga, were advised to go to the Ministry of Health for body parts, such as bones.
See also
People with albinism want protection
‘MPs use witchcraft for success’
Election: ‘ritual murders will rise’
Swazi Govt bans murders march
Public sector corruption in Swaziland getting worse, Transparency International report

suggests
24 January 2020
The public sector in Swaziland (eSwatini) is ‘corrupt to highly corrupt’, according to the
latest annual report from Transparency International.
The kingdom ruled by King Mswati III as sub-Saharan Africa’s last absolute monarch, and
where political parties are barred from taking part in elections, scored 34 out of a possible
100 in the 2019 Corruption Perception Index (CPI).
On the scale zero is ‘highly corrupt’ and 100 is ‘very clean’. The index ranks 180 countries
and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption according to experts and
businesspeople.
The score of 34 puts Swaziland in the area of corrupt to highly corrupt according to the CPI
scale. In 2018 Swaziland scored 38 and in 2017 it scored 37.
Transparency International recommended, ‘To end corruption and restore trust in politics, it
is imperative to prevent opportunities for political corruption and to foster the integrity of
political systems.’
74
In Swaziland the King chooses the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers. He also picks senior
judges and senior civil servants.
Following elections in 2018, King Mswati appointed eight members of his Royal Family to
the kingdom’s 30-member Senate and another six to the House of Assembly.
In July 2019 nearly one in four people (24 percent) surveyed in Swaziland believed their
Prime Minister was corrupt, according to a separate report from Transparency International.
Nearly one in three (32 percent) thought government officials were corrupt. Just over half (51
percent) thought corruption had increased in the previous 12 months.
Nearly one in five (17 percent) users of public services reported they had paid a bribe in the
previous 12 months: 21 percent said they had paid a bribe to get an ID card; 10 percent said
they had bribed the police.
The results were published in the Global Corruption Barometer (GCB) – Africa survey, a
collaboration between Afrobarometer and Transparency International.
In an annual review on human rights in Swaziland published in 2019 the United States
Department of State reported, ‘there was a widespread public perception of corruption in the
executive and legislative branches of government and a consensus that the government did
little to combat it’.
The report stated, ‘There were widespread reports of immigration and customs officials
seeking bribes to issue government documents such as visas and resident permits. In March
[2018] police raided the Department of Immigration, where they confiscated files and
arrested and charged two senior immigration officers. The government filed charges against
one of the senior officers based on allegations she had processed applications for travel
documents for foreign nationals who were not present in, and had never visited, the country.’
It added, ‘Credible reports continued that a person’s relationship with government officials
influenced the awarding of government contracts; the appointment, employment, and
promotion of officials; recruitment into the security services; and school admissions.
Authorities rarely took action on reported incidents of nepotism.’
See also
Swaziland King appoints eight of his family to Senate amid reports of widespread vote
buying elsewhere
New drive against corruption in Swaziland leaves out King Mswati, the biggest drain on
the public purse
Nearly one in four in Swaziland believe Prime Minister is corrupt, Transparency
International reports
Swaziland Auditor General fears fraud as govt pensions paid to the deceased
75
Swaziland court bans public sector pay strike

20 January 2020
The Industrial Court in the absolute monarchy of Swaziland (eSwatini) has banned a strike by
public servants over pay because it is against ‘the national interest’.
Trade unions have been calling over the past three years for pay increases to meet rises in the
cost of living.
Unions had taken strike action in September 2019 but this was banned temporarily. Now, the
court has made a judgment to ban it completely.
The unions involved in the court case were the National Public Service and Allied Workers
Union (NAPSAWU) and the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT).
Swazi police had used teargas, rubber bullets, water cannon and live ammunition during the
strike. At least 15 people were injured. The violence happened in Mbabane after what local
media called ‘a long day of peaceful protest’. The police brutality was condemned by
international human rights observers.
Judge Abande Dlamini in his judgment said that the national interest had been threatened by
the strike. He blamed the violence on the union members.
See also
Swaziland union leader shot by police during strike put his hands up and pleaded: don’t
shoot
Swaziland police shoot union leader in back as peaceful workers’ protest turns into a
‘battlefield’
Swaziland police fire rubber bullets and teargas injuring 15 during national strike
Swaziland police fire teargas into classroom packed with children
Swaziland police brutality under attack from international workers’ group
No let-up in restrictions of freedom of association and assembly in Swaziland: Human

Rights Watch
15 January 2020
Restrictions on freedom of association and assembly in Swaziland (eSwatini) continued in the

past year, a new report from Human Rights Watch stated.
The new Police Service Act of 2018 limited police powers to prevent gatherings as it required
only a ‘notice of gathering’ to be submitted to the relevant local authority, unlike the previous
1963 law that needed the police to issue a license to permit public gatherings, HRW stated.
In a review of events in 2019 it said in August, Swazi public servants began mobilizing for a
nationwide strike to demand an increase in wages.
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‘The police did not disrupt the nationwide mobilization campaigns, but fired teargas and
water cannons to disperse thousands of protesting government workers on September 23,’
HRW stated.
Although eSwatini signed the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance in
January 2018, the government did not take steps to ratify or implement the Charter.
The public servants were part of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT),
the Swaziland National Association of Government Accounting Personnel (SNAGAP), and
the National Public Services and Allied Workers Union (NAPSAWU).
HRW said, ‘The various legislative improvements on freedom of association and assembly
contained in the new Public Order Act of 2017, which imposes restrictions on the
government’s power to limit freedoms of assembly and association, were not fully tested in
practice in 2019 as restrictions on freedom of association and assembly continued.’
HRW said eSwatini remained an absolute monarchy ruled by King Mswati III, who has led
the kingdom since 1986, with a 1973 decree banning opposition political parties. Despite the
adoption of the 2005 constitution which guarantees basic rights, and the kingdom’s
international human rights commitments, the government had not reviewed the decree or
changed the law to allow the formation, registration, and participation of political parties in
elections.
This was not the first report to detail human rights abuses in Swaziland. The United States
State Department in its review of events in 2018 reported there was no appetite to investigate
human rights abuses or corruption.
A 24-page report detailed ‘human rights issues’ across a wide range of areas which included,
‘restrictions on political participation, corruption, rape and violence against women linked in
part to government inaction, criminalization of same-sex sexual conduct, although rarely
enforced, and child labor’.
The report stated, ‘The government often did not investigate, prosecute, or administratively
punish officials who committed human rights abuses. With very few exceptions, the
government did not identify officials who committed abuses. Impunity was widespread.’
Freedom House stated, ‘The king exercises ultimate authority over all branches of the
national government and effectively controls local governance through his influence over
traditional chiefs. Political dissent and civic and labor activism are subject to harsh
punishment under sedition and other laws. Additional human rights problems include
impunity for security forces and discrimination against women and LGBT (lesbian, gay,
bisexual, and transgender) people.’
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Freedom House scored Swaziland one point out of a possible 16 for ‘political pluralism and
participation’ stating, ‘The king has tight control over the political system in law and in
practice, leaving no room for the emergence of an organized opposition with the potential to
enter government. The vast majority of candidates who contested the 2018 general elections
were supporters of the king.’
See also
Swaziland in economic freefall with human rights failings, report shows
King Mswati in complete control as another year of human rights struggle ends in
Swaziland
Police violence, undemocratic elections, hunger and disease: highlights of Swaziland’s
human rights violations
Swaziland Government breaks promise to pay overdue student allowances

13 January 2020
The Swaziland (eSwatini) Government has broken its promise to pay tertiary student their
living allowances. It is the latest in a string of broken promises.
Students who boycotted classes in protest across the kingdom ruled by King Mswati III as an
absolute monarch only returned after the promise of payment was made.
The latest deadline of 10 January 2020 has been missed, meaning students have not been paid
for five months. The Swazi Government first gave a deadline for the missed payments of 20
November 2019.
It is mostly first year students from universities and colleges across the kingdom who are
affected.
Registration for the second semester started on Monday (13 January 2020).
The Swaziland News, an online newspaper, reported Thulani Mkhaliphi the Principal
Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security said there were ‘technical challenges’
in making the payments.
Swaziland is in financial meltdown and public services across the kingdom are grinding to a
halt because the Government has not paid bills to suppliers.
The newspaper reported some students had been evicted from their rented flats in Manzini
because they were unable to pay rent.
In November 2019 police fired live ammunition and shot a university student with a rubber
bullet at the Southern Africa Nazarene University (SANU) in Manzini during class boycotts.
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Students across the kingdom were angry that the government failed to keep its promise to pay
them their allowances for books, accommodation and other equipment.
See also
Swaziland police fire gunshots and shoot student with rubber bullet as campus protests
continue
Swaziland students boycott classes as Govt. breaks promise to pay allowances
Striking Swaziland students win victory in dispute with government
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ABOUT THE EDITOR

Richard Rooney was associate professor at the University of Swaziland 2005 – 2008, where
he was also the founding head of the Journalism and Mass Communication Department.
He has taught in universities in Africa, Europe and the Pacific. His academic research which
specialises in media and their relationships to democracy, governance and human rights has
appeared in books and journals across the world.
His writing regularly appears in newspapers, magazines and on websites. He was a full-time
journalist in his native United Kingdom for 10 years, before becoming an academic.
He has published the blog Swazi Media Commentary since 2007 and also has other social
media sites that concentrate on human rights issues in Swaziland.
He holds a Ph.D in Communication from the University of Westminster, London, UK.
He edits a weekly email newsletter with news from and about Swaziland, compiled in
collaboration with Africa Contact, Denmark (www.afrika.dk) and sent to all with an interest
in Swaziland - free of charge. To subscribe mail to: SAK-Swazinewsletter-
subscribe@yahoogroups.co.uk
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OTHER PUBLICATIONS
Swaziland: Striving for Freedom: Vol. 36 October – December 2019 is available free of
charge here
Campaigning against Swaziland’s absolute monarch King Mswati III with renewed calls for
democratic reform dominated the final three months of 2019. A new grouping of political
parties – some banned in the kingdom – called the PPA – Political Parties Assembly launched
and engaged in a number of public meetings and demonstrations.
In a statement the PPA said it wanted to end the kingdom’s form of government, known as
Tinkhundla, or monarchical democracy. They want power returned to the people. PPA stated,
‘We unanimously observed that the royal project Tinkhundla has reached a point of no return
in dragging down our dignity and stretching beyond limits our patience as a people.’
King Mswati received global condemnation when he bought himself and his family at least
15 luxury Rolls-Royce cars (early reports suggested as many as 20 had been purchased). The
state then bought 126 BMW cars and motorbikes for ‘escort duties’ in the kingdom. US
Ambassador to Swaziland Lisa Peterson criticised the lavish spending in a public speech and
unleashed a torrent of criticism from the King’s supporters. There may be attempts to censor
her future public statements.
In other events, police attacked workers on legal strikes, using teargas, water cannon and
rubber bullets. There were reports of live bullets being fired. Police shot one union leader in
the back even though he had his hands raised and pleaded: Don’t shoot.
Police also fired live ammunition and shot a university student with a rubber bullet as class
boycotts against the government’s non-payment of allowances swept the kingdom.
Swazi Media Commentary is published online, updated most weekdays. It is operated entirely
by volunteers and receives no financial backing from any organisation. It is devoted to
providing information and commentary in support of human rights in Swaziland.
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Swaziland: Striving for Freedom Vol. 35 July to Sept 2019 is available free of charge here
Police in Swaziland attacked striking public servants with live ammunition, rubber bullets,
teargas and water cannon as a long-running dispute over pay dragged on. The police
behaviour has become typical in the kingdom ruled by King Mswati III as an absolute
monarch. The number of injured was initially estimated as 15, but that more than doubled as
more information became available. Separate from this there were new fears that police had a
‘shoot-to-kill’ policy after three men who escaped from a correctional facility were gunned
down.
These were some of the main events in the period July to September 2019 and contained in
Swaziland: Striving for Freedom, volume 35.
The kingdom continues in financial meltdown, with health and educational services crippled.
Schools and hospitals have run out of supplies and staff have been sacked and other
vacancies left unfilled. Up to 200 teachers had reportedly died from stress-related illness over
the past two years as a result. Cancer patients have been refused treatment because the
government has not paid hospital bills. At least 11 children died of diarrhoea because of drug
shortages.
Elsewhere, Lisa Peterson, United States Ambassador to Swaziland renewed her call for the
Royal Decree that keeps King Mswati in power as an absolute monarch to be scrapped.
Oxfam, the international anti-poverty charity, named Swaziland as the country with most
income inequality in Africa. Human Rights Watch reported restrictions on freedom of
association and assembly continued in Swaziland although the kingdom had signed the
African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance in January.
An extensive survey revealed LGBTI people in Swaziland suffer mental health issues and
many have attempted suicide because of the way they are discriminated against in the
kingdom.
82
Swaziland: Striving for Freedom Vol. 34 April to June 2019 is available free of charge
here
Public services throughout Swaziland are close to meltdown as the government, handpicked
by absolute monarch King Mswati III, fails to get a grip on the economy. Health services
have been especially hit over the past three months with reports that people have died as
medicines run out because the government did not paid suppliers. Drugs for HIV are in short
supply, even though the kingdom has the highest rate of infection in the world. Patients in
public hospitals have also gone unfed.
These are some of the reports that have appeared on the Swazi Media Commentary website in
the second quarter of 2019 and are contained in this compilation, Swaziland: Striving for
Freedom Vol 34. Also included: the International Trade Union Confederation placed
Swaziland near the bottom of countries across the world for workers’ rights. It said in the past
year ‘police brutality reached unprecedented levels’ and ‘security forces fired live
ammunition at protesting workers’. Elsewhere, public service unions marched on the
government demanding cost-of-living salary increases.
The absolute monarch King Mswati maintained his grip on power by appointing 28 members
of his family to the kingdom’s committees and boards, including 10 princes and princesses to
the 23-member Liqoqo, a supreme traditional advisory body which is also known as the
Swazi National Council Standing Committee. This was in addition to the eight members of
his Royal Family he appointed to the Senate and six to the House of Assembly last year.
Meanwhile, the United States in its annual report on human rights in Swaziland found there
was no appetite to investigate human rights abuses or corruption. Swaziland was controlled
by the King and ‘political power remained largely vested with the king and his traditional
advisors,’ the report, stated.
83
Swaziland: Striving for Freedom Vol. 33 January to March 2019 is available free of
charge here
The gap between rich and poor is widening and the kingdom faces ‘an unprecedented
economic crisis’: these were two of the main concerns of Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg
in his national budget for Swaziland where the ‘economic outlook remains subdued’. He went
on to threaten to cut public service jobs if workers did not fall into line and accept his
programme to reduce debts.
Meanwhile, the Auditor General Timothy Matsebula in his annual report stated the finances
of the Government were in such a mess that billions of emalangeni could not be accounted
for.
Public service across Swaziland are in freefall with hospitals and clinics short of vital drugs.
Schools are unable to feed vulnerable children. All because the government has not paid
suppliers.
These were some of the major themes from Swaziland over the first three months of 2019 and
published in Swaziland: Striving for Freedom: volume 33, the latest quarterly compilation
from the pages of Swazi Media Commentary.
The international spotlight has been shone on Swaziland, where King Mswati III rules as sub-
Saharan Africa’s last absolute monarch. The kingdom continues to be riddled with
corruption, according to Transparency International. Freedom House once again declared
Swaziland ‘not free’ in its annual Freedom in the World Index.
Closer to home, the Law Society of Swaziland Secretary Thulani Maseko criticised recent
appointments of judges, saying there was no transparency in the choices and the Swazi
Constitution was ignored.
84
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Swaziland: Striving for Freedom

As seen through the pages of Swazi Media Commentary

Swaziland closes informal border crossings as coronavirus strikes South Africa

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It predicted many deaths unless the government took action.

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Nurses intend to march on Tuesday (17 March 2020).

The state of emergency will be in place for at least two months.

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DECLARATION OF NATIONAL EMERGENCY IN

As a result of this declaration, His Majesty has further commanded Government to

The following measures will also be implemented with immediate effect;

Government, Parastatals and Companies, including Supermarkets, Shopping Centres

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PRIME MINISTER’S STATEMENT

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Members of the National Emergency Management Committee are the following;

1. Deputy Prime Minister – Chairman

• Coordinate National and Regional Emergency management measures at Cabinet level;

Government has furthermore appointed a National Emergency Task Force, comprised of

• Establishing and directing the policy of the National Emergency Management

Members of the Task Team are:

1. Army Commander – General Jeffery Tshabalala

7. Lubombo RA - Mr. Themba Msibi

There will be Regional Committees to be chaired by Regional Administrators and various

It cannot be over-emphasized that all of us should follow the precautionary guidelines as

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On Monday (23 March 2020) Minister of Tinkhundla Administration David Ngcamphalala

GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF ESWATINI

PRIME MINISTER’S STATEMENT

COVID-19 RESPONSE ADDITIONAL MEASURES

Through the counsel of His Majesty, Government has established Emergency

health precautions to combat coronavirus and adhere to measures introduced by

Ambrose Mandvulo Dlamini

Swaziland Govt publishes long list of exceptions to coronavirus ‘lockdown’

GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF ESWATINI

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND TRADE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR ALL INDUSTRIES

We do understand that some businesses will be affected by external factors and we

Consumer Goods suppliers

Essential business services at the Ministry of Commerce

Business principles and guidelines

Manufacturing and Processing:

• Government encourages the introduction of more shifts to limit the number of

Business Eswatini - 2404 0768

Federation of Eswatini Business Community (FESBC) - 2505 9199

Senator Manqoba B. Khumalo

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Shakantu announced at a press conference the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Regulations 2020

He said there would be restrictions placed on patients at hospital. ‘Accompanying of patients

He added, ‘Government has instructed employers to allow as many as possible employees to

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GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF ESWATINI