HLANE – King Mswati III has called for improved infrastructure planning and modern road networks to support the country’s growth and the rising scale of national events.
The King made the remarks on Monday during the official opening of the E200 million Hlane Royal Hotel, which he named Nsulutane Property Hotel, in Hlane under the Lubombo Region.
He said congestion experienced during the recent Buganu Ceremony in Hlane shows the need for forward looking spatial planning as the number of participants at cultural gatherings continues to grow. 
The King said the expansion of the Lutsango regiment and increasing attendance at national ceremonies require infrastructure focused on efficiency, safety and proper organisation.
“The large numbers we are seeing here, especially the growth of the Lutsango regiment, show that it is time for us to go back to the drawing board. We must work with experienced planners to design a modern and well-organised layout that will improve safety and ensure the comfort of everyone,” the King said.
The newly opened hotel has 42 luxury rooms and is expected to strengthen Eswatini’s tourism sector while creating employment for more than 1 000 emaSwati and supporting local subcontractors.
Located close to the King Mswati III International Airport, the facility is expected to accommodate travellers and contribute to tourism expansion and economic growth.
The King said development in Hlane must be guided by a long term vision that includes modern road networks, sufficient parking, improved event infrastructure and integrated amenities to improve accessibility and visitor experience.
He welcomed planned expansions to the development, including luxury villas, a retail complex and a filling station, describing these as important for strengthening the regional economy.
The King said nearby conservation areas such as Mlawula Nature Reserve and Magadzavane, as well as growing agricultural activities like sugar cane and horticulture, continue to support development in the region.
“We are encouraged by the development taking place in Hlane, from nearby wildlife areas such as Mlawula and Magadzavane to the growth of sugar cane and vegetable farming. With tourist numbers now exceeding one million, this combined progress is important for the growth of our economy,” the King said.
With tourist arrivals now exceeding one million annually, the King said this presents an opportunity to position Eswatini as a competitive tourism destination.
He also called for designated camping areas with proper sanitation facilities to allow emaSwati to celebrate cultural events in an organised and dignified manner.
“There is also a need for properly designated areas for camping and tents, supported by good quality showers and sanitation facilities. This will allow emaSwati to celebrate their culture in a dignified and well-organised setting,” the King said.
