SITEKI — The European Union in Eswatini joined women, young people, entrepreneurs and creatives at Sunrise Civic Centre in Siteki on Friday, 28 August 2026, to mark International Youth and Women’s Day Commemoration 2026 as part of celebrations marking 50 years of partnership between the EU and the Kingdom.
Held under the theme “Empowering Women and Youth for Sustainable Economic Growth,” the event recognised the role of women and young people in driving entrepreneurship, creativity and sustainable economic development across the country. It offered a platform for women- and youth-led businesses to showcase their products, meet potential partners and customers, and explore opportunities for growth and sustainable livelihoods.
The EU also mounted a “50 Years of Partnership” photographic exhibition at the venue, tracing the impact of its collaborations with communities, organisations and initiatives across Eswatini. The display featured work with partners such as COSPE Southern Africa, a private, lay and non-profit organisation founded in 1983 to promote fair and sustainable development, human rights, peace and justice in the region, which continues to support local communities and create opportunities for women and youth. 
EU Deputy Ambassador José Becerra, speaking at the commemoration, pointed to the bloc’s continued commitment to backing programmes that expand opportunities for women and young people in Eswatini.
