Eswatini Needs Leaders Who Refuse to Embrace Limitations - PS Mthunzi

Principal Secretary Mthunzi Shabangu has called on aspiring leaders in Eswatini to reject limitations and work towards transforming the country into a first-world nation. He made these remarks during the Leaders Mindset Conference and Camp held at the International Youth Fellowship College chapel at TwoSticks, Zakhele. Shabangu drew inspiration from the biblical story of Joshua and Caleb, who believed the Israelites could conquer Canaan despite the challenges posed by its inhabitants.

Shabangu recounted how Moses had sent 12 spies to explore the promised land before the Israelites entered it. Although all 12 confirmed that the land was fertile and flowing with milk and honey, 10 returned with a discouraging report, focusing on the strength of the people inhabiting it. In contrast, Joshua and Caleb maintained that the Israelites were capable of taking possession of the land. Shabangu urged the participants to adopt a similar attitude, looking beyond Eswatini's limitations and recognising its potential.

Shabangu emphasised that Eswatini's size, resources, and other limitations should not be viewed as obstacles to development. He challenged the participants to stop believing that poverty and suffering were inevitable, arguing that everyone had the potential to create a better life for themselves and their families. According to Shabangu, no one in Eswatini was born to be poor or live a miserable life.

The conference also featured a guest speaker, Pastor Gang from South Korea, who cautioned participants against allowing fear, personal judgement, and self-reliance to influence their decisions. He emphasised the importance of recognising God's direction and not measuring oneself against others or relying on personal standards to judge circumstances. Pastor Gang illustrated his message through three biblical accounts, including the 12 spies who explored Canaan.

Pastor Gang's message was complemented by a testimony from IYF College student Nothando Khumalo, who shared her transformative experience with the Good News Mission Church. Khumalo said she had previously believed she was responsible for managing every aspect of her life, but through the church's teachings, she came to understand her spiritual condition and the importance of fellowship and sharing her struggles.

The Leaders Mindset Conference and Camp was organised by the Good News Mission Church, which operates under the IYF, for the spiritual development and mindset upliftment of the college community. The conference was attended by Shabangu, members of the college administration, students, and members of the public. The programme included gospel music, Christmas carols, and cultural performances by Ubuntu, the college's African dance group.

The conference aimed to inspire positivity and encourage participants to become agents of change in their workplaces, churches, and communities. Shabangu challenged the participants to translate their beliefs into action, saying, "Let us go out and make a turnaround. Let us go out there and inspire positivity out of the people." The conference concluded on Sunday, with attendees expected to carry the message of rejecting limitations and working towards a better future for Eswatini.

Key points

• Eswatini's leaders must reject limitations to transform the country into a first-world nation.
• The country's size and resources should not be viewed as obstacles to development.
• Participants were encouraged to become agents of positive change in their communities.