Story By Taonga Nkhata and Siphesihle Dlamini
The Kingdom of Eswatini is calling on its citizens to rediscover the beauty of their own backyard this Easter!
Minister for Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, has urged emaSwati from all corners of the country to embrace the Easter season as an opportunity to explore the nation’s rich landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Easter Season Campaign at the iconic Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Minister Mkhonta-Simelane stressed that exploration is not a privilege reserved for international visitors but begins at home.
“As the Easter holiday approaches, a time for family, reflection, and celebration, we challenge every liSwati and every visitor from across our borders with a simple yet powerful call to action: This Easter, don’t just find eggs, go out to nature,” she said.
The minister highlighted the diverse experiences awaiting those who take her advice seriously. From tracking the elusive black rhino in Mkhaya Game Reserve to watching the sunrise over the famous Sibebe Rock, emaSwati are encouraged to engage with nature, culture, and adventure across the country.
For thrill-seekers, activities such as white-water rafting, ziplining, and canopy tours offer an adrenaline rush, while quieter pursuits, including birdwatching and scenic hiking, provide a chance to reconnect with the natural world.
Minister for Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, officially launched the Easter Campaign.
Minister Mkhonta-Simelane linked the campaign to the Kingdom’s strong tourism performance in recent years. In 2025, Eswatini celebrated a historic milestone, welcoming 1,037,054 international visitors, a 7.5 per cent increase from the previous year. Early figures for 2026 indicate that this momentum continues, with arrivals in January alone up 7.9 per cent year-on-year.
While promoting exploration, the minister also urged residents and visitors to act responsibly. Safety and environmental stewardship were key messages of her address, with a reminder to obey traffic laws, choose eco-friendly accommodations, and respect natural habitats. “Our landscapes are a treasure for future generations,” she emphasised. “Enjoy them but protect them.”
The Easter Season Campaign also seeks to highlight the Kingdom’s vibrant cultural tourism.
The minister referenced the recent Buganu Ceremony at Buhleni Royal Residence, which drew both locals and international guests.
The event boosted local entrepreneurs, who sold traditional regalia, arts, and crafts, demonstrating the economic impact of cultural preservation and celebration.
“This campaign is more than just a call to travel, it’s a call to rediscover ourselves through the beauty, adventure, and culture of Eswatini,” Minister Mkhonta-Simelane concluded, urging every liSwati to take part in the Kingdom’s “grand hunt” this Easter.
