Eswatini Inaugurates Historic Convention Centre

Mbabane – On Saturday, April 25, 2026, Eswatini officially inaugurated its new International Convention Centre (ICC) in Mbabane, with notable attendees including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and former President Jacob Zuma.

This occasion was also a dual celebration of King Mswati III’s 40 years on the throne and his 58th birthday.

Despite often being seen as political adversaries, President Ramaphosa and former President Zuma came together to commemorate the occasion alongside monarchs, diplomats, and heads of state.

Among the attendees were Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and King Letsie III of Lesotho.

Zuma, the leader of the uMkhonto we Sizwe Party, has familial ties to the Eswatini royal family through his daughter, Queen Nomcebo Zuma, who is the 16th wife of King Mswati III.

The Eswatini Government described the ICC as a “milestone in the Kingdom’s tourism and hospitality journey,” enabling the nation to host prestigious conferences, exhibitions, and business events.

In a statement, South Africa’s Presidency highlighted that Ramaphosa’s participation reflected the “strong and fraternal relations” between the two countries, rooted in a shared history and cultural connections since the end of apartheid.

Spokesperson Vincent Mangwenya remarked: “President Ramaphosa’s presence as a guest at the national celebration in the Kingdom of Eswatini emphasizes the enduring and fraternal relations between South Africa and Eswatini.”

“South Africa and Eswatini have strong historical and cultural bonds that were formally established following the end of the apartheid era in South Africa.”

The Ruby Jubilee featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, followed by the King touring the new facilities.