YEAR-OPENING PRAYER: 40 Years Marks Eswatini’s Renewal – King

After leading the Kingdom of Eswatini for four decades, King Mswati III has declared that 2026 marks the beginning of a new era of renewal and transformation for the nation.

Speaking during a year-opening national prayer service held at Mandvulo Grand Hall, the king reflected on the country’s 40-year journey under his reign and called on the nation to look ahead with faith, unity and purpose.

Addressing a hall filled to capacity with government officials, church leaders and members of the public from all walks of life, the monarch attributed the nation’s endurance and progress over the past four decades to divine grace.

“We thank God today, for He has carried us through for 40 years. Truly it has been His grace, and that is why we are here. It was not by our own wisdom; it was the grace that was available at all times,” he said.

The king described the 40-year milestone as significant both spiritually and historically. He emphasised that reaching 40 years was not merely a numerical achievement, but a symbol of endurance, growth and divine favour.

As the nation transitions into what he termed its ‘next chapter’, he said this period must be characterised by spiritual reflection and collective responsibility.

Drawing from biblical teachings, His Majesty referred to Jesus Christ’s 40-day and 40-night fast in the wilderness, explaining that it was a period of preparation and spiritual strengthening. He urged the nation to adopt a similar posture of humility and discipline to fully realise the promise of renewal.

“To reach 40 years is no joke,” he said. “When Jesus Christ lived on earth, He fasted for 40 days and nights so that He could attain the grace of God. We, too, must understand what 40 means in its true sense.”

He also reflected on the biblical journey of Moses and the Israelites, who spent 40 years travelling from Egypt to the Promised Land. According to the king, their journey was marked by trials and uncertainty, yet it ultimately led to fulfilment because of their faith in God.

ALSO READ | STATE PARLY OPENING ON FRIDAY

“They walked for 40 years in the wilderness. It was not easy; it was very tough,” he said. “They faced many challenges. But because of the agape love of God, no challenge was insurmountable, even when there was a sea in front of them.”

In a moment of emphasis, the king reminded the congregation that faith requires obedience and trust.

“When you are walking with Indvodza Yemadvodza (Jesus Christ), even if there is a sea ahead of you, it will open for you. But if you do not do things according to the manner He wants and you take chances, it can result in bad news,” he cautioned.

Reflecting on the country’s own path over the past four decades, the king acknowledged that Eswatini had encountered difficult seasons. However, he maintained that divine guidance had seen the nation through each challenge.

As the country looks ahead to another 40 years, he proposed a 40-day fast as a spiritual act of unity and dedication.

“We have to fast for 40 days. Then we will know exactly what 40 days means,” he said.

In lighter remarks that drew smiles from the audience, he added that fasting could also promote physical well-being.

“Many people want to lose weight and be slim, and they take all kinds of substances. But when you fast for 40 days and walk with God, you will see the difference.”

Beyond fasting, the king stressed that the coming decades must be marked by unity rather than division. He urged citizens to refrain from blaming or despising one another and instead focus on building a renewed nation grounded in faith and cooperation.

ALSO READ | EBIS Embraces Innovation on World Radio Day

“In the next 40 years, it will no longer be time to blame each other. It will be a time for renewal,” he said.

Encouraging perseverance during hardship, the king pointed to the biblical account of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who remained steadfast in faith even when thrown into a fiery furnace. Their deliverance, he said, stands as a reminder that God does not abandon His people in times of trial.

“When you encounter very difficult periods, sit down and communicate with God with an open heart,” he advised. “God will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Concluding his address, His Majesty expressed confidence that the nation would embrace the call to renewal and spiritual rebirth.

He urged citizens to remain united in both good and challenging times as Eswatini embarks on its next chapter.

“Emaswati will hold hands and be united in good time and bad times,” he said, affirming his hope that the next 40 years will be defined by faith, transformation and shared national progress.