11/06/2026
We Laud His Majesty for Strengthening International Partnerships – Minister Owen
By Psychology Hlatshwayo
MAKHONZA-Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo has commended His Majesty King Mswati III for fostering strong international partnerships that continue to contribute to the country's development.
Nxumalo made the remarks during the handover of newly constructed classrooms and a kitchen at Makhonza Primary School under Zombodze Emuva Inkhundla in the Shiselweni Region. The infrastructure was built through the U.S. Military Group (USMILGP) under the Overseas Humanitarian, Disaster and Civic Aid (OHDACA) programme.
The Minister said the project demonstrates the positive impact of Eswatini's cordial relations with international partners, adding that development initiatives of this nature are helping improve the quality of education in rural communities.
“We laud His Majesty King Mswati III for maintaining strong international relations that continue to attract development partners and bring tangible benefits to the people of Eswatini,” said Nxumalo.
He noted that the classrooms and kitchen represent a substantial investment in the country's education sector, with the project costing approximately US$921,000 (about E15 million). He said the infrastructure will significantly improve learning conditions and enhance the welfare of learners and teachers at the school.
Nxumalo further explained that the project forms part of the U.S. Military Group's OHDACA programme, a humanitarian assistance initiative that supports the construction of schools and other community infrastructure aimed at improving the lives of citizens in partner countries.
The Minister further revealed that the Ministry of Education and Training is continuing with the process of permanently employing teachers and confirming those currently serving on contract.
He said it remains the ministry's commitment to ensure that every qualified teacher is eventually absorbed into permanent employment as part of efforts to strengthen the education sector and improve service delivery in schools across the country.