THE kingdom of Eswatini has expressed a keen interest in learning from Zambia’s experience in defense and security, as it looks to modernise and strengthen its own national systems.
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This was revealed after Zambia and Eswatini signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security (JPC).
The agreement between the two is aimed at enhancing collaboration in areas of national security, defense strategy, intelligence sharing and regional peacekeeping efforts.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at Defence Headquarters in Lozitha, acting Eswatini Minister of Defence and National Security Pholile Shakantu noted that King Mswati III fully endorses the creation of the JPC between Eswatini and Zambia.
Shakantu added that his majesty is committed to promoting peace across the region by working closely with key partners in matters of defense and security within Southern Africa.
She stated that Eswatini is particularly interested in Zambia’s approach to building professional security forces, maintaining internal stability, and contributing to peacekeeping missions across the continent.
“Eswatini wants to learn from Zambia how it can set, improve its security and defence services,” she said.
Meanwhile, Minister of Defense Ambrose Lufuma said the agreement to form the JPC is the eighth collaborative deal between Zambia and Eswatini since President Hakainde Hichilema’s June 2022 visit, reflecting his commitment to fostering regional peacekeeping efforts, strong bilateral ties and development-oriented diplomacy.
“There can never be development anywhere if peace does not prevail. This MoU will promote more engagements between the Defence Forces of the two countries and result in more closer relations,” he said.
According to the Ministry’s principal public relations officer, Paul Shalala, the minister was accompanied to Eswatini by Zambia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Mozambique, Eswatini and Mauritius, Kenya Londe; Defence Secretary Brigadier General David Manyima, Defence Advisor to Eswatini Brigadier General Mary Musendo and representatives of Legal Departments from the Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force and Zambia National Service.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba September 9, 2025
