The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding trade, investment, and people-to-people ties with Eswatini. British High Commissioner Colin Wells stated that the bilateral relationship between the two countries is excellent and continues to grow stronger. This announcement was made during the 78th birthday celebrations of King Charles III, held at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini. The event was attended by government ministers, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the British community in Eswatini.
The UK's agenda in Eswatini focuses on two main priorities: developing trade between the two countries and building people-to-people relationships. Wells emphasized that both countries share common ambitions and that all stakeholders present play a crucial role in advancing the relationship. The UK is supporting British companies seeking to invest significantly in Eswatini and promoting Britain as a destination for Eswatini's exports.
The UK has been actively promoting its tariff-free offer to Eswatini companies of all sizes. This year, the High Commission has held large-scale events to showcase the UK's offer, including participation in the annual Eswatini International Trade Fair in August. Wells highlighted Eswatini's entrepreneurial talent and the potential for business expansion, job creation, and economic growth through access to the British market.
Wells encouraged Eswatini businesses to think big and take advantage of the opportunities available in the UK market. He emphasized that bringing Eswatini products to the UK market would fuel expansion, create new jobs, and contribute to economic growth. The UK is also keen on seeing more emaSwati traveling to Britain as tourists, students, or for business.
The Chevening Scholarship programme is a central pillar of the UK-Eswatini relationship. Each year, Britain sends three or four highly talented emaSwati to the UK on a fully funded scholarship to study for a Master's Degree at prestigious universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Exeter. These scholars return to Eswatini and contribute significantly to the country.
The impact of the Chevening Scholarship programme is evident in the success stories of its alumni. Standard Bank Eswatini CEO Mvuselelo Fakudze and diplomat Zandile Dlamini are notable examples of Chevening Scholars who have gone on to achieve great things. Fakudze now leads a bank, while Dlamini was recently appointed as Ambassador to the African Union and Ethiopia by King Mswati III.
Wells also paid tribute to British nationals living in Eswatini, who contribute to the country's development through community work, tourism, and senior positions in various organizations. He expressed pride in their efforts, stating that they project the best of British values. With the UK's continued support, the bilateral relationship between Eswatini and the UK is expected to continue growing stronger.
Key points
- The UK offers Eswatini tariff-free access to its market, investment opportunities, and scholarships to strengthen bilateral ties.
- The Chevening Scholarship programme is a key component of the UK-Eswatini relationship, enabling talented emaSwati to study in the UK and contribute to their country's development.
- The UK's engagement with Eswatini aims to promote trade, investment, and people-to-people relationships, with a focus on economic growth and development.
