AGP Executive Report

Events & Venues: Somhlolo Stadium will be unavailable for two weeks, first for the End Hunger Walk and then the Imbube Marathon on October 17; football fixtures have been moved. Travel Access: Eswatini is among 46 African countries whose citizens can visit the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days, subject to entry requirements. Sports Tourism: Eswatini is preparing to host the African Cross Country Championships for the first time in March 2027, with a new committee tasked with getting the national team ready. Hospitality Investment: Strong returns from the Hilton Garden Inn are boosting the Public Service Pension Fund’s confidence in the Royal Swazi Spa project, though an operator deal is still pending.

Sports & Events: Somhlolo Stadium will be unavailable for league fixtures for two weeks as it hosts the End Hunger Walk and Imbube Marathon. Mbabane Highlanders and Swallows have moved their matches to other venues. Tourism Investment: Strong returns from the Hilton Garden Inn are encouraging the Public Service Pension Fund to consider Royal Swazi Spa as its next hospitality investment, though no operator has been secured. Major Event: Eswatini is preparing to host the African Cross Country Championships for the first time in March 2027, with a new committee focused on the national team. Travel Access: Eswatini passport holders are among travellers eligible for up to 30 days visa-free in the Philippines; visitors need a passport valid for at least six months and a return or onward ticket.

Sports Tourism: Eswatini is preparing to host the African Cross Country Championships for the first time in March 2027. A new committee will lead athlete preparations, while a separate organising team handles the event and its logistics. Hospitality Investment: Strong returns from Mbabane’s Hilton Garden Inn are boosting confidence in a possible Royal Swazi Spa investment. The Ezulwini resort could benefit from its leisure-focused location, though an operating partner has not yet been secured. Camping: Wild Wonder camp is set to expand after a well-attended, rain-soaked Heritage Day weekend. Travel Access: Eswatini passport holders are among 46 African nationalities eligible for up to 30 days visa-free in the Philippines; travellers need a passport valid for at least six months and a return or onward ticket.

Travel Access: Eswatini citizens are among nationals of 46 African countries eligible for up to 30 days visa-free travel to the Philippines. Travellers need a passport valid for at least six months and a return or onward ticket. Sports Tourism: Eswatini has launched a team-preparation committee ahead of the African Cross Country Championships, which the country will host for the first time in March 2027. Hospitality Investment: Strong returns from the Hilton Garden Inn are boosting the Public Service Pension Fund’s confidence in a possible investment in Royal Swazi Spa, a leisure property in Ezulwini.

Sports & Tourism Spotlight: Athletics Eswatini has unveiled a new Team Eswatini Cross Country Committee to prepare athletes for the 2027 African Cross Country Championships in March, with the country set to host the continental event for the first time. Health & Borderland Care: A report highlights South Africa’s weak palliative care for children, with Butterfly Palliative Home in Ingwavuma (on the Eswatini border) cited as one of the few places able to help. Culture & Media Reach: Eswatini artist Sancheziey says his song “Siyabonga Gogo” debut on South Africa’s Metro FM proved that stories from the kingdom can travel far. Diplomacy & Travel Links: Eswatini’s new ambassador to Taiwan pledged continued advocacy for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations, while Taiwan and Eswatini also reaffirmed plans for deeper cooperation. Hospitality & Jobs: PSPF says its Hilton Garden Inn investment is “really pumping” and is weighing a major next step for Royal Swazi Spa in Ezulwini. Economy Watch: CSO data shows Eswatini GDP growth accelerated to 6.5% in Q2 2026, supporting a stronger tourism and business climate.

Tourism & Culture: Eswatini artist Sancheziey celebrates his song “Siyabonga Gogo” making its Metro FM debut, saying it’s proof that stories from the “small kingdom” can travel far. Diplomacy & Travel Links: Eswatini’s new ambassador to Taiwan, Vulindlela Simphiwe Kunene, pledged continued advocacy for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations, highlighting Taiwan-backed rural electrification across Eswatini. Homes & Community: Five vulnerable families in four constituencies received new homes through the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, a boost for shelter after years of floods, fire and leaking mud houses. Sport & Regional Events: The AUSC Region 5 Youth Games torch arrived in Mbabane for the MTN Siyabhampisa 3×3 launch, spotlighting youth sport ahead of the December games in Maputo. Hospitality Investment: PSPF says its Hilton Garden Inn investment in Mbabane is “really pumping,” strengthening confidence in Royal Swazi Spa’s tourism potential. Economy Watch: Eswatini’s real GDP growth accelerated to 6.5% in Q2 2026, supporting a steadier business and visitor environment.

Housing & Community Support: Tears of joy in Eswatini as five vulnerable families across Mtsambama, Maseyisini, Zombodze Emuva and Shiselweni 1 received new homes via the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, including a climate-smart house for 63-year-old Sibongile Sihlongonyane. Tourism & Sport: MTN Siyabhampisa 3×3 Basketball Series kicked off in Mbabane with the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games torch, spotlighting youth empowerment and regional sporting unity. Hospitality & Investment: PSPF says its Hilton Garden Inn investment is “really pumping” and is weighing further hospitality opportunities, with Royal Swazi Spa in Ezulwini still on the radar. Diplomacy & Travel Links: Eswatini and Taiwan reaffirmed their 58-year partnership, with plans for energy security, trade and investment, plus a Taiwan Medical Mission expansion that brings specialist care closer to patients. Economy Watch: CSO data shows Eswatini’s real GDP growth rose to 6.5% in Q2 2026, supporting a stronger outlook for business and visitors. Regional Mobility: A Reuters report highlights concerns over US “third-country” deportations, including cases involving Eswatini’s migration deal.

Sport & Youth Tourism: MTN Siyabhampisa 3×3 Basketball Series kicked off in Mbabane with the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games torch, spotlighting youth empowerment and a regional sporting route to Maputo in December. Hospitality & Investment: PSPF says its Hilton Garden Inn investment in Mbabane is “really pumping” and is watching Royal Swazi Spa’s commercial potential as a future leisure-resort play in Ezulwini. Immigration & Travel Safety: A Laotian man deported to Eswatini under the US third-country deal was released after 14 months in Matsapha, raising fresh questions about due process and detention practices that affect cross-border travellers. Economy Watch: Eswatini’s real GDP growth strengthened to 6.5% in Q2 2026, with activity broadening across primary, secondary and tertiary sectors—good news for tourism demand. Diplomacy & Visitor Interest: Eswatini and Taiwan hailed their 58-year partnership, including a planned Strategic Fuel Reserve and an Industrial Innovation Park—signals of longer-term stability for business and travel. Arts & Culture: The Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts festival opened in Mbabane, with the Tourism Authority board backing youth storytelling through theatre.

Eswatini–Taiwan Partnership: Eswatini and Taiwan used Taiwan’s 115th National Day in Ezulwini to pledge deeper cooperation over the next 58 years, spotlighting a Strategic Fuel Reserve (target 2028) and a Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park to boost energy security, jobs, trade and investment. Eswatini Economy: The Central Statistical Office reports real GDP growth in Eswatini accelerated to 6.5% in Q2 2026, with quarter-on-quarter momentum easing to 0.7% as growth composition shifted across primary, secondary and tertiary sectors. Tourism Compliance Push: The Eswatini Tourism Authority and Eswatini Revenue Service signed an MoU to tighten enforcement of the 3% Bed Levy, improving information sharing to identify accommodation providers not meeting obligations. Royal Swazi Spa Update: Tibiyo TakaNgwane’s MD says a Hilton partnership for Royal Swazi Spa is effectively “done deal,” with reopening expected within months after due diligence. Creative Arts & Tourism Culture: The Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts Schools Festival opened at Mbabane Theatre, with youth challenged to tell Eswatini stories through performance ahead of the October International Theatre Festival. Regional Tourism & Travel Context: A US senator warned that China-linked flight restrictions targeting Taiwan could disrupt international travel, with Eswatini mentioned as part of the diplomatic route affected by airspace clearances. Sports Tourism Link: Eswatini’s football development continues as EFA buys a GWM bakkie for FIFA talent pathway coach Tomeu Perello Palou, supporting grassroots training.

Eswatini Economy Watch: Eswatini’s real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, up from 6.1% in Q1, with growth broad-based across primary, secondary and tertiary sectors, though quarter-on-quarter momentum eased to 0.7%. Tourism & Compliance: The Eswatini Tourism Authority and Eswatini Revenue Service signed an MoU to tighten enforcement of the 3% Bed Levy, improving information sharing to spot accommodation providers that may be non-compliant. Bilateral Travel Boost: Eswatini and Taiwan renewed their 58-year partnership, highlighting a Strategic Fuel Reserve due in 2028 and a Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park aimed at investment and jobs—plus continued healthcare support via the Taiwan Medical Mission. Sports & Visitor Interest: Eswatini Football Association bought a GWM double-cab bakkie worth over E600,000 for Spanish FIFA talent pathway coach Tomeu Perello Palou, supporting youth development at schools and regional centres. Culture on Stage: The Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts Festival opened in Mbabane as a curtain-raiser for the October International Theatre Festival, with local schools showcasing arts and drama. Regional Context: A US senator warned that China-linked restrictions on Taiwanese presidential flights could disrupt international travel, with Eswatini mentioned among affected diplomatic routes.

Tourism & Culture: Eswatini’s creative arts push stays in focus as the Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts Schools Festival opens in Mbabane, with youth challenged to tell local stories and theatre training led by visiting and regional performers. Sports & Travel Appeal: Wild Wonder camp is set to grow after a busy rainy Heritage Day weekend, with visitors enjoying outdoor activities and luxury camping at Erfenis Nature Reserve. Bilateral Tourism & Trade: Eswatini and Taiwan marked 58 years of friendship, pledging deeper cooperation in energy security, industrial development, trade and investment, including a planned Strategic Fuel Reserve and a Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park. Economy & Visitor Confidence: Eswatini’s real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, with broad-based gains across primary, secondary and tertiary sectors. Immigration & Visitor Flow: Government is moving to overhaul immigration laws, fast-tracking the Immigration Bill 2025 to address border delays and enforcement challenges that can affect travellers. Tourism Compliance: ETA and ERS signed an MoU to tighten enforcement of the 3% Bed Levy, improving information sharing with accommodation providers. Regional Context: A US senator warned that China-linked flight restrictions affecting Taiwanese presidential travel could disrupt international travellers, underscoring how air access can shape regional tourism plans.

Legal & Wealth Scrutiny: Zimbabwe tycoon Wicknell Chivayo’s reported R400m estate is now at the centre of a high-stakes legal fight after his death, with social media questioning the gap between his lavish public spending and the value being reported. Aviation & Travel Safety: A U.S. senator warned that China-backed flight restrictions tied to Taiwan could disrupt international travel and endanger civilians and critical supplies. Tourism Transport & Compliance: Eswatini’s tourism sector is tightening up: the ETA and ERS signed an MoU to strengthen bed levy compliance, while the country moves to overhaul immigration laws via the Immigration Bill 2025. Sports & Talent Pathways: Eswatini’s EFA bought a GWM bakkie worth over E600k for FIFA’s talent pathway coach, and the U-23s head into AFCON qualifiers with a focus on pushing for Olympic qualification. Culture & Creative Tourism: The Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts festival and the October International Theatre Festival spotlight young performers, with Eswatini urged to use the arts to tell local stories. Regional Partnerships: Eswatini and Taiwan reaffirmed their 58-year relationship, highlighting energy security and investment plans.

Tourism & Culture: The Mlawula Campfire Festival at Siphiso Campsite in Mlawula Nature Reserve drew over 1,200 attendees over the weekend, with organisers noting growing demand that’s starting to strain camping space. Creative Arts & Youth: Foreign Affairs minister’s message, delivered via ETA board chair Penelope Mkhwanazi, urged young people to use the arts to tell Eswatini stories as the Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts Schools Festival opened at Mbabane Theatre. Bilateral Travel Boost: Eswatini and Taiwan hailed their 58-year partnership, highlighting a Strategic Fuel Reserve and a Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park—plus continued support like the Taiwan Medical Mission moving to Manzini Government Hospital. Tourism Compliance: ETA and Eswatini Revenue Service signed an MoU to tighten enforcement of the 3% bed levy, improving information sharing to identify accommodation compliance risks. Hospitality Outlook: Tibiyo TakaNgwane MD says the Hilton Group partnership for Royal Swazi Spa is a “done deal,” with reopening expected in the coming months. Economy Watch: Eswatini’s GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, signalling stronger activity that can support tourism demand.

Eswatini–Taiwan Partnership: Eswatini and Taiwan used Taiwan’s 115th National Day in Ezulwini to pledge deeper cooperation over the next 58 years, spotlighting a Strategic Fuel Reserve (target completion in 2028) and a Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park, alongside trade, investment, energy security and people-focused projects like the Taiwan Medical Mission. Tourism & Culture: The Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts Schools Festival opened in Mbabane as the Minister challenged youth to use the arts to tell Eswatini stories, with workshops and performances feeding into the October International Theatre Festival. Tourism Growth: Mlawula Campfire Festival’s latest edition drew over 1,200 attendees, with organisers warning that camping space is now under pressure as demand rises. Economy Watch: Eswatini’s real GDP grew 6.5% in Q2 2026, with primary, secondary and tertiary sectors all expanding year-on-year. Immigration Reform: Government is moving to overhaul immigration laws via the Immigration Bill 2025 to speed up processes and address visitor entry challenges. Tourism Compliance: ETA and ERS signed an MoU to tighten information sharing and enforcement around the 3% bed levy, aiming to improve compliance among accommodation providers.

Heritage Day tourism boost: The Mlawula Campfire Festival kept growing, with ENTC reporting it surpassed a conservative 1,200-attendee target at Siphiso Campsite in Mlawula Nature Reserve, adding pressure on limited camping space and reinforcing the push for tourism-led economic growth. Hotel reopening watch: Tibiyo TakaNgwane’s MD said the Royal Swazi Spa/Hilton partnership is essentially a “done deal,” with due diligence underway and a reopening hoped for within months, while Hilton’s VP also hinted at further opportunities in Eswatini. Tourism compliance focus: ETA and ERS signed an MoU to tighten Bed Levy compliance, improving information sharing to identify accommodation providers not meeting obligations. Creative arts for tourism: Eswatini’s youth were urged to tell local stories through the Genesis Ekucaleni Schools Festival, a curtain-raiser for the October International Theatre Festival. Immigration reform affecting visitors: Government is moving to overhaul the Immigration Bill 2025 to address border delays and visitor entry challenges, including stronger enforcement tools. Regional ties: Eswatini and Taiwan’s 58-year friendship was celebrated in Ezulwini, highlighting healthcare support and women’s economic empowerment. Sports tourism angle: Eswatini U-23s head to Malawi for AFCON U-23 qualifiers, while local football continues to draw regional attention.

Royal & Tourism Spotlight: His Majesty King Mswati III returned home from New York after addressing the UN General Assembly, with climate finance and El Niño impacts on Southern Africa highlighted. Tourism Events: The Mlawula Campfire Festival is drawing bigger crowds, with ENTC saying the 7th edition surpassed a 1,200-attendee target at Siphiso Campsite—boosting camping, outdoor recreation and local business. Hospitality Update: Tibiyo TakaNgwane’s MD says a Hilton partnership for the Royal Swazi Spa is essentially “done deal,” with reopening expected within months, while Hilton says it’s exploring further opportunities in Eswatini. Local Culture & Arts: Foreign Affairs Minister Pholile Shakantu (via the ETA board chair) challenged youth to tell Eswatini stories through creative arts as the Genesis Ekucaleni Schools Festival opened. Policy Watch (Travel/Entry): Eswatini is moving to overhaul immigration laws via the Immigration Bill 2025, aiming to speed up processes and address border delays. Tourism Compliance: ETA and ERS signed an MoU to tighten bed levy compliance by sharing information and improving enforcement in the accommodation sector. Sports Tourism Link: Eswatini’s U-23s head to Malawi for AFCON qualifiers, while Mlawula’s festival and beach volleyball success keep Eswatini’s tourism calendar lively.