Eswatini King Calls for United Front Between Chiefs and Politicians to Boost National Development
King Mswati III stresses the importance of lifelong traditional leadership in supporting government development efforts
- King Mswati III urges strong collaboration between political leaders and traditional chiefs
- Traditional leaders’ lifelong tenure provides continuity that complements the temporary nature of elected governments
- Eswatini and Ghana are strengthening ties through cooperation
King Mswati III of Eswatini has urged political leaders to harness the stable, lifelong nature of traditional chieftaincy as a foundation for sustainable national progress.
Highlighting the unique position of chiefs, whose tenure far outlasts elected governments, the King emphasized that traditional authorities provide continuity crucial for ongoing development efforts.
“Traditional leadership is a birthright and a constant presence in the lives of the people,” King Mswati said. “This reliability allows central governments to depend on chiefs to maintain and advance development initiatives.”
Speaking at Ghana’s National House of Chiefs in Kumasi, the King pointed out that traditional leaders’ close connection to communities gives them invaluable insight into local challenges. He called for a robust partnership between political executives and traditional institutions to effectively address these issues.
He also encouraged chiefs to innovate and evolve to reclaim and strengthen their developmental roles in society.
During his visit to meet the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II—a return courtesy following the latter’s 2015 visit to Eswatini—King Mswati stressed the need to deepen bilateral ties beyond cultural exchange. He highlighted opportunities in tourism, trade, and education, envisioning collaboration between educators and entrepreneurs from both nations to safeguard shared heritage and foster growth.
Ghana and Eswatini have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to form a Joint Commission for Cooperation, aiming to boost their strategic partnership.
Ogyeahohuo Yaw Gyebi II, President of Ghana’s National House of Chiefs, praised the visit as a chance to exchange knowledge on how traditional authority can harmoniously coexist with government to promote economic and social development.
Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Ahmed Ibrahim reaffirmed the critical role of chieftaincy institutions in driving national progress.
