His Majesty King Mswati III has been appointed Deputy Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation (Troika), a regional body tasked with promoting peace and security in Southern Africa.
Appointment at SADC Summit
The appointment was confirmed during the 45th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government yesterday in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
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His Majesty will deputise the President of Malawi, Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, who was elected Chairperson for the 2025/26 term. The King is set to assume the Chairmanship for the 2026/27 term.
King’s Gratitude and Commitment
In accepting the role, His Majesty expressed gratitude to fellow SADC leaders for their confidence in him and in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
He pledged to work diligently to uphold the Troika’s principles and to promote peace and security across the Southern African region.
National Reaction
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Pholile Shakantu, described the King’s appointment as a great honour for Eswatini.
“It is an opportunity for our kingdom to take a leadership role in shaping a secure and prosperous Southern Africa. As we prepare for the chairmanship in the coming year, we are committed to fostering regional cooperation and addressing the challenges we face together as a region,” she said.
The minister highlighted His Majesty’s collaborative approach to dispute resolution, expressing confidence that the King will strengthen peace and stability in the region.
Role of Eswatini in Regional Peace
According to Shakantu, Eswatini under His Majesty’s guidance will:
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Promote dialogue among member states.
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Address political stability, conflict resolution, and security threats.
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Foster a cooperative environment for sustainable development.
Historical Context – Previous Role in Madagascar
Coincidentally, the King’s new appointment comes in Madagascar, where he previously chaired the Troika from 2010 to 2011.
During that time, the organ initiated a roadmap that led to the peaceful resolution of Madagascar’s 2009 political crisis following the ousting of then-President Marc Ravalomanana.
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