The Eswatini government has confirmed that three third-country nationals (TCNs) linked to the United States have voluntarily departed the country. The TCNs, from Yemen, Belize, and Laos, had been residing in Eswatini under a bilateral arrangement with the US government. According to Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli, the individuals requested to leave Eswatini and reunite with their families.
The first TCN, a Yemeni national, voluntarily departed Eswatini on September 8, 2026. The second TCN, a Belizean national, left the country on September 30, 2026. The third TCN, a Laotian national, departed on October 4, 2026. Mdluli stated that these departures were part of ongoing arrangements concerning TCNs temporarily residing in Eswatini.
The Eswatini government continues to engage with relevant authorities and partners to facilitate requests for voluntary repatriation. Mdluli expressed appreciation to countries and authorities that cooperated with Eswatini in facilitating the transit of the TCNs to their respective countries of origin. This cooperation contributed to the smooth and orderly facilitation of their journeys home.
The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the rights, dignity, and well-being of TCNs are respected and protected throughout their temporary stay in Eswatini. The administration also emphasized its dedication to safeguarding the security and interests of the country and its people.
Eswatini's bilateral arrangement with the US government allows for the temporary residence of TCNs in the country. The arrangement also provides for the voluntary repatriation of TCNs to their countries of origin. The government will continue to provide updates on significant developments concerning TCNs in Eswatini.
The departures of the three TCNs demonstrate the ongoing cooperation between Eswatini and the US government. The Eswatini government values its partnership with the US and other countries in facilitating the voluntary repatriation of TCNs. The government remains committed to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals residing in the country.
The Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF) recently announced a significant reduction in claims processing time, from days to just three hours. This development aims to improve service delivery and efficiency. Meanwhile, Eswatini and Lesotho are seeking to strengthen trade and education ties, with a focus on reviving education cooperation between the two countries.
Key points
- The Eswatini government confirms that three US-linked third-country nationals have voluntarily left the country.
- The individuals, from Yemen, Belize, and Laos, returned to their respective countries of origin under a bilateral arrangement with the US government.
- The Eswatini government remains committed to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals residing in the country.
