PRESS RELEASE
SITEKI – The Ministry of Home Affairs, in partnership with Siteki Town Council, today hosted the Siteki Roadshow as part of the national build-up to the commemoration of 40 years of His Majesty King Mswati III’s reign, to be celebrated on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Somhlolo National Stadium in Lobamba.
The streets of Siteki came to life with energy, pride, and celebration as the roadshow moved from Masotjeni to the New Bus Rank, drawing strong participation from community members, local leaders, and stakeholders. From start to finish, the event reflected a vibrant show of unity and patriotism, reinforcing the great national pride that continues to define this historic milestone.
Led by the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with Siteki Town Council, the roadshow added colour and excitement to the national countdown as emaSwati celebrate a reign marked by legacy, excellence, and impact. Today, Siteki did not just host a procession; it proudly told the story of a nation celebrating leadership, progress, and shared purpose.
The procession was enlivened by performances from the Correctional Services Band, while drum majorettes from Siteki Nazarene Primary School, Mpaka High School, and Good Shepherd High School added rhythm and spectacle to the occasion. Cultural expression was further showcased through Ingadla and Sibhaca by students from Mpaka High School. The programme was directed by Master of Ceremonies Sandile Dlamini, popularly known as “Sweet Banana,” who kept the atmosphere vibrant and engaging throughout.
Speaking during the event, Mayor of Siteki, Bongisipho Dlamini, said the roadshow provided an opportunity for the town to reflect on the remarkable transformation achieved under His Majesty’s leadership over the past four decades.
“Today we reflect with pride on how Siteki has transformed under His Majesty’s leadership into a vibrant town of growth, opportunity and development,” said Dlamini.
He noted that Siteki has evolved into a vibrant urban centre supported by significant infrastructure development, including the establishment of the Siteki Main Market, modern bus ranks, Lubombo Mall, and the ongoing Courtyard Mall project, as well as key institutions such as Lubombo Referral Hospital and Good Shepherd Hospital and College.
The Mayor further highlighted improvements in road infrastructure, citing upgrades and lighting along Ngwenya Street, MR7 and Jacaranda Street, which have enhanced safety and accessibility. He also pointed to the development of the Civic Centre, parks and recreational spaces, as well as the expansion of residential areas such as Mvelo, Mpumalanga and Moyeni, as key milestones in strengthening community life and service delivery.
“As Siteki Town Council, we remain committed to building on this legacy and ensuring sustainable development for generations to come,” he said.
He also extended an open invitation to investors to be part of Siteki’s growth story, emphasising that the town continues to offer a conducive environment for investment, tourism and economic development.
Also addressing the gathering, a Communications Officer from the Ministry of Home Affairs thanked the community of Siteki for their strong turnout and encouraged residents to maintain cleanliness as the country prepares to welcome visitors and tourists.
“As we prepare to welcome visitors from across the country, we urge the community to keep Siteki clean, as this strengthens our image, supports tourism and attracts investment,” the officer said.
Meanwhile, Elmon Nkonde, Station Commander for the Royal Eswatini Police Service in Siteki, urged the public to prioritise safety as they prepare to attend the national celebrations at Somhlolo National Stadium.
“As we prepare for the national celebrations, we urge the public to prioritise safety by using roadworthy vehicles, driving responsibly, and ensuring their homes are secure. As His Majesty King Sobhuza II once said, ‘nawe uliphoyisa’ meaning each and every one of us has a responsibility to play a role in ensuring safety,” said Nkonde.
He further encouraged motorists to ensure that drivers are properly licensed and that vehicles carry only the required number of passengers. Nkonde also cautioned against drinking and driving and urged pedestrians to remain vigilant on the roads to help reduce accidents.
The Siteki Roadshow forms part of a nationwide series of activations aimed at building excitement, unity and public participation ahead of the commemoration of His Majesty King Mswati III’s 40 years on the throne.
As the procession moved through the town, the strong turnout and enthusiastic participation by residents reflected the pride, unity, and shared purpose that continue to define this historic national celebration.
