Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Prince Simelane has renewed his call for Eswatini to strengthen its ‘fence’ by recruiting more security officers, arguing that a larger UEDF,
police, correctional and fire service will safeguard peace and unlock economic growth.
Speaking at the 18th anniversary of His Majesty’s Correctional Services at the Staff College in Matsapha on Friday, Prince Simelane said the country must never run short of its security personnel if it wants to attract investors and create jobs for emaSwati.
“Kudzala solo ngiyiteka kutsi, angashodi fenisi welive. Kungashoda konkhe hhayi fenisi,” he told guests.
In English: “For a long time I have said, let the country’s fence never run short. Everything else can be in short supply, but not the fence.”
The minister was referring to Eswatini’s four main security arms, Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force, Royal Eswatini Police Service,
Advertisement
Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Prince Simelane making a plea before His Majesty.
His Majesty’s Correctional Services and Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services. He said their numbers remain limited and need gradual expansion to meet future demands.
The minister gave rough targets: 15,000 personnel for UEDF, 12,000 officers for REPS, 10,000 officers for HMCS and 5,000 personnel for ENFES.
He stressed these were estimates, not final figures, meant to illustrate the country’s long-term security needs.
The link to the economy was clear in his message. Prince Simelane said investors study a country’s safety before putting money in.
“If they hear that a country is unsafe and unstable, they do not come. Investors contribute to economic growth and create employment opportunities for emaSwati,” he said.
He quoted the siSwati saying “Salakutjelwa sibona ngemopho,” meaning people often only see the value of advice after problems start.
He warned that nations usually realise the importance of strong security only after crises hit.
That is why he has repeatedly raised the issue in Parliament. No new recruitment dates have been announced for REPS, HMCS, or ENFES.
Prince Simelane’s renewed plea means many young emaSwati will be watching closely for any openings.
