BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MIDRAND, SOUTH AFRICA– Eswatini has secured another influential leadership position on the continental stage after Mbabane East Member of Parliament, Hon. Welcome Dlamini, was elected Chairperson of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) Committee on Education, Culture, Tourism and Human Resources during the institution’s Seventh Legislature.
The appointment is a significant milestone not only for Dlamini personally but also for the Kingdom of Eswatini, as it places one of the country’s legislators at the helm of a key committee responsible for shaping policies that influence education, skills development, tourism, culture and human capital development across the African continent. The Pan-African Parliament is the legislative organ of the African Union, bringing together representatives from member states to promote integration, democratic governance and sustainable development.
Dlamini’s election reflects the confidence and trust that fellow African parliamentarians have placed in his leadership, experience and commitment to public service. It also enhances Eswatini’s voice in continental policy discussions at a time when Africa is placing increased emphasis on improving education systems, unlocking tourism potential, preserving cultural heritage and investing in human capital as drivers of economic growth.
As Chairperson, Dlamini will lead committee deliberations, coordinate its work programme, preside over meetings and help steer discussions on legislation, policy recommendations and oversight relating to education, culture, tourism and human resources. The committee works closely with the African Union Commission and other continental institutions in advancing Agenda 2063 and promoting cooperation among member states.
His election comes as African countries continue pursuing reforms aimed at improving access to quality education, expanding employment opportunities for young people, strengthening vocational skills, promoting cultural industries and positioning tourism as a major contributor to economic transformation.
For Eswatini, the appointment presents an opportunity to contribute directly to continental conversations on issues that are central to national development. The country has continued investing in education reforms, tourism promotion and youth empowerment, making Dlamini’s leadership role particularly relevant in advancing shared African priorities.
Dlamini has earned recognition both within Eswatini’s Parliament and at the continental level for his active participation in legislative affairs and governance matters. As the elected Member of Parliament for Mbabane East, he has been involved in parliamentary debates on governance, accountability and public policy while representing the interests of his constituents.
Political observers say the appointment further raises Eswatini’s profile within the African Union’s parliamentary structures, demonstrating the country’s growing contribution to continental governance and policy development.
The Pan-African Parliament serves as an important platform where legislators from across Africa collaborate on issues affecting the continent, including peace and security, trade, health, education, infrastructure, governance and economic integration. Through its permanent committees, the Parliament develops recommendations that support African Union objectives and encourage greater cooperation among member states.
Dlamini’s election is expected to strengthen Eswatini’s participation in shaping policies that promote quality education, sustainable tourism, cultural preservation and the development of Africa’s human resources. It also provides an opportunity for the country to share its experiences while learning from best practices across the continent.
His new leadership role represents another achievement for Eswatini’s parliamentary diplomacy and reinforces the country’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to Africa’s development agenda through active engagement in continental institutions.
(Courtesy Pic)
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