YOKOHAMA, JAPAN — His Majesty King Mswati III has urged Emaswati to develop cutting-edge technological skills to help Eswatini compete globally.
He said the time had come for locals to spearhead ambitious projects such as the proposed E6 billion industrial park at Phocweni, unveiled recently as part of an investment by the Republic of China (Taiwan). The park is envisioned as a hub for industrial growth, job creation, and technological advancement.
Embrace Innovation
Speaking during a meeting with Emaswati students and employees in Japan, the King stressed the need for locals to embrace innovation.
“We need to embrace technology,” he declared, highlighting how expertise in robotics, infrastructure, and industrial skills could drive Eswatini’s transformation.
Japan’s Role and Lessons
The King praised Japan’s advancements, saying Eswatini looked forward to learning from its technical expertise and experience in infrastructure, social welfare, and innovation.
He noted with pride that Emaswati were already benefitting from opportunities under the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD).
“Being here is a great advantage to gain useful knowledge. We trust they will be ambassadors to lure investors to Eswatini,” His Majesty said.
Robotics, Fashion & Engineering
The King highlighted the progress of Emaswati in Japan, including:
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Ndumiso Dlamini – working at Hibot Corporation, specialising in robotics.
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Thandeka Mavuso – pursuing a Master’s Degree in Economics (Public-Private Partnerships).
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Bongekile Motsa – employed at Eco Brand, a sustainable fashion company.
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Sipho Simelane – a civil servant studying Civil and Environmental Engineering.
His Majesty expressed excitement that skills like robotics would position the country well when developing science and technology parks.
Students’ Reactions
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Ndumiso Dlamini said he was honoured to meet the King, who encouraged them to use their skills to reduce reliance on foreign investors.
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Thandeka Mavuso expressed excitement, noting she would return in 2027 to contribute to infrastructure projects in water and electricity.
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Bongekile Motsa described the meeting as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and vowed to grow Eswatini’s fashion sector.
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Sipho Simelane said he looks forward to returning home after graduating next month to share his knowledge.
Emazinyane and members of the royal family among others.
Cultural Integration
The King also urged the group to integrate into Japanese society.
“Learn the Japanese language — as in Rome, do what the Romans do. Breaking the language barrier is important.”
He added that Emaswati must uphold national character positively, ensuring that the Japanese remain excited to collaborate.
A Vision for the Future
The proposed E6 billion industrial and technology park represents a cornerstone of Eswatini’s economic future. His Majesty believes the project will foster innovation, attract investment, and create opportunities for skilled Emaswati to lead the way.
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