His Majesty King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini arrived in Ghana yesterday to begin a historic four-day state visit aimed at strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations.
Upon his arrival at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, King Mswati III was warmly received by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and other senior government officials. He was then escorted to the seat of government for official talks with President John Dramani Mahama.
The King received a ceremonial welcome at the Presidency, complete with vibrant cultural displays. President Mahama officially welcomed him before the two leaders addressed the media and proceeded to hold private bilateral discussions.
Their talks focused on a range of issues including trade, diplomatic cooperation, cultural exchange, and tourism. President Mahama expressed confidence that the visit would solidify the longstanding relationship between Ghana and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Highlighting Ghana’s legacy as a leader in African unity, President Mahama emphasized the importance of fostering closer continental partnerships. He noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement offers a strategic opportunity to boost intra-African trade, which both countries could leverage for mutual benefit.
King Mswati III, in his remarks, acknowledged the vast untapped opportunities across Africa and underscored the need to transform the continent into a thriving trade hub. He pointed to infrastructure development as a critical enabler of effective trade and expressed interest in exploring Ghana’s potential for collaboration.
“We are here from Eswatini to identify opportunities and explore how we can tap into them. Obviously, for trade to thrive, infrastructure must be developed,” he stated.
The King also noted the presence of a sizeable and well-integrated Ghanaian community in Eswatini, commending their contribution to his country’s development and assuring President Mahama of their safety and well-being.
A key highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a Joint Commission of Cooperation between Ghana and Eswatini, laying the foundation for sustained collaboration across various sectors.
As part of his itinerary, King Mswati III is scheduled to meet the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. During his visit to Kumasi, he will tour the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and the historic Manhyia Palace Museum, address the National House of Chiefs, and attend a grand durbar of chiefs held in his honor at Manhyia Palace.
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland until 2018, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. It remains Africa’s last absolute monarchy and has been ruled by King Mswati III since 1986.
Story By: Michael Abayatey
