MBABANE – The European Union delegation in Eswatini has reaffirmed its support for free, informed and responsible media following a meeting between EU Ambassador Karsten Mecklenburg and members of the Eswatini National Editors Forum.
The engagement took place at the Hilton Garden Hotel in Mbabane, where discussions centred on EU supported projects in the Kingdom, development priorities and the role of the media in contributing to social and economic progress.
According to the EU delegation, media freedom remains a key pillar of human rights and an important driver of development. The bloc has backed a number of media related initiatives in the country, including World Press Freedom Day commemorations and the 2025 National Media Awards. It has also facilitated training programmes for journalists, with the most recent focusing on ethical reporting on Gender Based Violence. 
During the meeting, Ambassador Mecklenburg informed editors that 2026 marks 50 years of partnership between the EU and Eswatini. The milestone will be celebrated in May during Europe Month through a series of activities. He also noted that the year marks a decade since the signing of the EU SADC Economic Partnership Agreement.
“The media plays a pivotal role in society, and we recognise it as a key component of the EU’s partnership with Eswatini. These engagements will enable us to continue sharing the story of this partnership and to create more opportunities for Emaswati,” said the Ambassador.
Speaking on behalf of the Eswatini National Editors Forum, Chairperson Mbongeni Mbingo welcomed the dialogue with the EU and other development partners, saying it allows the media to disseminate important information to the public.
Mbingo said both parties agreed to maintain the engagement through quarterly meetings aimed at strengthening collaboration and advancing shared objectives.
