THERE were 26 774 people who arrived in the country on Thursday and Friday, with 32 aircraft landing.
According to Ministry of Home Affairs Communications Officer Mlandvo Dlamini, these statistics show an increase compared to those who arrived in the country in the same period last year. He said total arrivals, including aircraft passengers, were 26 774 in 2026 while in 2025 there were 26 743 arrivals, which is an increase of 31.
Dlamini stated that the Ngwenya Border Post, however, recorded a decline in arrivals. He said the ministry’s Immigration Department recorded 6 031 people on Thursday and 7 446 arrivals on Friday, totalling 13 477 arrivals during this period last year.
He said this year, Ngwenya Border Post arrivals totalled 12 517, which is 960 less than last year.
He added that three border posts being Nsalitje, Bulembu and Sandlane which were still under the supervision of the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), were not included in these figures. He said these borders have experienced growing traveller activity and were gaining momentum, especially during this period.
“The total number of arrivals into Eswatini between Thursday and Friday remains consistent across 2025 and 2026, with a slight increase of 31 arrivals this year. This data indicates a steady flow of visitors entering Eswatini ahead of the Bushfire Festival weekend,” he said.
He added that the slight rise in total arrivals, including those arriving by air, reflects the ongoing appeal of the festival and underscores the country’s sustained efforts to facilitate a welcoming environment for all guests.
Dlamini said the Immigration Department remains committed to ensuring smooth border crossings, efficient processing and the safety and security of all attendees for a successful festival weekend.
“The Kingdom of Eswatini continues to welcome a vibrant influx of visitors, further cementing the Bushfire Festival as a major regional event of tourist significance. The department acknowledges the increasing activity at border posts supervised by the Royal Eswatini Police Service and will remain vigilant and supportive to promote seamless travel experiences for all visitors,” he said.
Arrivals Data for 2026
| Border Post | Thursday | Friday | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ngwenya | 5 469 | 7 048 | 12 517 |
| Matsamo | 765 | 1 774 | 2 539 |
| Mahamba | 650 | 1 450 | 2 100 |
| Mananga | 524 | 867 | 1 391 |
| Mhlumeni | 496 | 1 546 | 2 042 |
| Lomahasha | 801 | 1 233 | 2 034 |
| Lavumisa | 953 | 1 746 | 2 699 |
| Sicunusa | 306 | 555 | 861 |
| KMIII | 216 | 375 | 591 |
Summary
| Category | 2026 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Arrivals (including air arrivals) | 26 774 | 26 743 |
| Aircraft Landings | 32 | 23 |
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A total of 32 aircraft landed during this period as part of festival arrivals.
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Total arrivals in 2026: 26 774 (including air arrivals)
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In 2025, a total of 23 aircraft landed during this same period.
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Total arrivals in 2025: 26 743 (including air arrivals)
