Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane has unveiled a nine-member Board of Directors for the Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA).
The minister said the appointment of the new board reflects government’s continued commitment to revitalise, strengthen and steer the country’s tourism industry towards a sustainable and prosperous future.
Former Eswatini ambassador to the United States of America Njabuliso Dlamini-Gwebu and Ann Reilly, who is the general manager of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, are among the new Board members. The minister unveiled the members in a ceremony that was held at the Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC) offices in Lobamba last Thursday.
In her address, Minister Mkhonta mentioned that the tourism sector faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, and that COVID-19 pandemic brought the industry to a near standstill, severely affecting economies and livelihoods. Eswatini was not spared from this disruption.
She said ETA had accordingly revised its strategic plan to respond to today’s realities. The revised 2023–2027 plan charts a bold path forward, one that emphasises capacity building, resource mobilisation, improved service standards and strategic partnerships.
“Its vision is compelling: To be a sufficiently capacitated and well-run organisation that is able to grow its contribution to the country’s economy to E2 billion by 2027. “And its mission speaks to collaboration, prudence, and national pride: To work with stakeholders to improve tourism offerings, mobilise resources effectively and support our local tourism operators, while also enhancing the image of Eswatini abroad.”
Further, Simelane said the new Board of Directors were professionals selected for their expertise, integrity and commitment to public service.
“To the newly-appointed board members, you carry a vital responsibility. You are being entrusted with guiding the Authority during a period of both challenge and opportunity.
I urge you to work closely with management, government, and the private sector,” said the minister. She further urged them to remain transparent, accountable, and future-focused. Let your tenure be marked by transformation, innovation and impact. To the outgoing board, the minister appreciated them for their dedication, hard work and tireless efforts in steering the ETA through various challenges and successes, which she said had laid a strong foundation for the future.
She said improving the country’s tourism sector is not only government’s baby, but the responsibility of every Liswati.
“Every Liswati, business, and community has a role to play in making visitors feel welcomed, in preserving our natural and cultural heritage and in telling the beautiful story of our kingdom,” Simelane said.
Board of Directors (ETA)
1. Penelope Mkhwanazi – Chairperson
2. Vusie Dlamini – Board Secretary
3. Njabuliso Dlamini-Gwebu
4. Christine Ndlovu
5. Ann Reilly
6. Samkelisiwe Dlamini
7. Thembayena Dlamini
8. Nkululeko Dlamini
9. Phinda Manyatsi
