Mbabane – The European Union in Eswatini officially launched EU Green Week 2026 in Mbabane on Wednesday, bringing together youth climate leaders, development partners, environmental stakeholders and the Municipal Council of Mbabane to reflect on sustainability, innovation and collective climate action.
Running under the theme “Investing in a Nature-Positive Economy: Youth Leading Sustainability, Celebrating 50 Years of Partnership in Environmental Sustainability,” this year’s edition marks the 26th time the annual campaign has been held since its inception.
EU Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg, explained what the week is about, saying: “The EU Green Week is a campaign that explores how nature-positive models work in practice, focusing on profitable farming, soil health, greening cities, and innovative financing to reverse rural flight.” 
Mbabane Mayor Thulani Mkhonto said the city was committed to promoting a green environment and thanked the EU for supporting the initiative.
Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA) Executive Director Gcina Dladla used the occasion to speak directly to young people, reminding them that they have a central role to play in driving green solutions across the Kingdom.
The launch also included a wellness walk and a symbolic tree planting ceremony at Extension 3 Park, where youth and officials planted trees together at the community park.
