MBABANE – Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development S’khumbuzo Dlamini has launched preparations for a landmark gathering of African traditional leaders, set to take place from 5 to 9 September 2025 at Esibayeni Lodge.
The conference will bring together Kings, Queens, Chiefs, and other distinguished traditional authorities from across Africa under the African Indigenous Governance Council (AIGC). The council seeks to strengthen the influence of ancestral governance systems at both the African Union and global level.
Minister Dlamini said the event marks the first time such a large and diverse assembly of African traditional leaders has been convened to collectively advance cultural heritage, peace, reconciliation, and community development. The gathering also aims to reinforce indigenous governance systems as partners in addressing Africa’s contemporary challenges. 
The forum aligns with the African Union’s 2025 Theme of the Year, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” which focuses on addressing the legacy of slavery, colonialism, and apartheid. The meeting will serve as a preparatory session for a larger Continental Traditional Leaders’ Summit scheduled in Eswatini in 2026, during which leaders aim to finalize a Traditional Leaders’ Declaration on Reparations.
Dlamini highlighted the Kingdom of Eswatini’s unique position as a nation that preserves its traditional roots alongside democratic governance. He also acknowledged the roles of His Majesty King Mswati III and His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco as examples of how traditional leadership can coexist with modern governance.
The minister expressed gratitude to African traditional leaders for choosing Eswatini to host the conference.
