BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has reaffirmed Eswatini’s commitment to sustainable urban development and modern governance through a high-level engagement with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA).
On Thursday, September 4, 2025, the premier met the ICMA delegation in the company of the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Appolo Maphalala. The discussions centred on the ICMA Conference, currently underway in Eswatini, and its potential to transform local governance.
A Platform for Global Collaboration
The Prime Minister described the ICMA Conference as a vital platform for the exchange of knowledge, skills, and global best practices in urban management.
“This collaboration ensures that Eswatini remains part of the global dialogue on innovative urban governance while tailoring these ideas to meet our unique national context,” he said.
The ICMA boasts a membership of over 13,000 city and county managers from across the world, with representation from the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Africa. Their presence in Eswatini marks the first time the prestigious event has been held on the African continent.
Driving National Transformation
The Prime Minister highlighted that the visit came at a pivotal time, as Eswatini accelerates development through the Nkwe Programme of Action and the Grand Plan for National Transformation.
He confirmed that the delegation had been briefed on legislative reforms currently being pursued to strengthen local governance, streamline service delivery, and empower municipalities.
“The ICMA delegation comes at a pivotal time when we are working to fast-track development. Through this partnership, we will unlock opportunities that will empower our local authorities, improve service delivery, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for emaSwati,” he stated.
A Step Towards Sustainable Cities
Minister Maphalala emphasised that the collaboration between ICMA and Eswatini municipalities would leave a lasting impact, particularly in ensuring that cities become more sustainable and better prepared for future challenges.
The week-long ICMA Conference, running from 2–7 September 2025, includes workshops, city-to-city learning exchanges, and site visits showcasing Eswatini’s infrastructure projects and urban development initiatives.
As the Kingdom celebrates 57 years of independence, the hosting of this global conference signals a determination to marry tradition with innovation, placing Eswatini firmly on the map of progressive governance.
(Courtesy Pics)
