His Majesty King Mswati III of Eswatini has praised the Kingdom of Lesotho for its significant contributions to shaping the political and economic landscape of Southern Africa over the past 60 years. Speaking at Setsoto Stadium during Lesotho's Diamond Jubilee independence celebrations on October 5, 2026, King Mswati III highlighted Lesotho's transformation from a sanctuary for political exiles into a pivotal driver of regional integration. He commended Lesotho's founding leader, King Moshoeshoe I, for establishing a nation anchored on diplomacy, unity, and refuge.
King Mswati III noted that Lesotho played a crucial role in founding the Southern African Development Coordination Conference (SADCC) in 1980, which later transitioned into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in 1992. He also acknowledged Lesotho's vital contribution to human capital across Southern Africa, with institutions in the Roma Valley serving as the academic capital for the former High Commission Territories. Many key ministers and civil service leaders from Eswatini and Botswana were educated in Lesotho.
The Eswatini monarch also cited Lesotho's development initiatives, such as the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP), as key benchmarks for regional cooperation and resource management. He praised Lesotho's robust textile manufacturing sector and its pioneering soil and water conservation policies. King Mswati III was accompanied by Inkhosikati LaNgangaza and other officials, including Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Pholile Shakantu and Justice Minister Prince Simelane.
As the special guest of honor, King Mswati III proposed the historic 60th anniversary toast on behalf of all visiting dignitaries. He lauded King Letsie III and the Basotho government for the remarkable strides in development evident since his previous visit. The king delivered an inspiring call to unity, encouraging the nation to remain strong in peace while walking shoulder-to-shoulder towards a shared, prosperous future.
In response, Lesotho's Prime Minister Sam Matekane urged the Basotho to reclaim a national identity shaped by discipline, resilience, vigilance, peace, hard work, and prosperity. He recalled the country's long history of struggle and survival, from King Moshoeshoe I's accommodation of Dutch farmers in the 1820s to the country's independence from Britain in 1966. The prime minister emphasized the importance of recognizing the efforts of their forefathers and shaping their future with their people.
King Letsie III extended special recognition to King Mswati III and the Kingdom of Eswatini for their strong bond of ties with the Basotho. He described King Mswati III's presence at the celebrations as having profound significance, reflecting the deep and enduring bonds between the two kingdoms. The Lesotho king also expressed gratitude to foreign governments, diplomatic missions, and international organizations for their support since Lesotho's independence.
The celebrations marked a significant milestone in Lesotho's history, with the country looking forward to the next years with a renewed sense of purpose and identity. The presence of King Mswati III and other dignitaries underscored the importance of regional cooperation and solidarity. The event concluded with a toast, as King Mswati III led the gathering in a vibrant toast the Swati way, raising the royal cry of "Siyinqaba!"
Key points
- King Mswati III praises Lesotho for its contributions to regional diplomacy and unity.
- Lesotho celebrates 60 years of independence, marked by significant milestones in regional integration and cooperation.
- The event strengthens ties between Lesotho and Eswatini, with both nations sharing a rich history and cultural affinities.
