Matthew Pickard, the new Southern Africa Regional Leader for World Vision, arrived in Eswatini on June 11 and quickly engaged with both staff and key partners.
Pickard began his visit by joining World Vision staff for morning devotions, where he acknowledged the office’s resilience and strong partnerships that have contributed to improving the lives of children across Eswatini.
Later the same day, Pickard, accompanied by National Director Tinah Mukunda and other World Vision managers, held a courtesy meeting with the United Nations team in Mbabane. The meeting took place at the office of the UN Resident Coordinator, George Wachira. 
Wachira noted the importance of World Vision’s role in the humanitarian sector and its contribution toward Eswatini’s efforts to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. He called on both organisations to maintain focus and strengthen collaboration.
Both World Vision and the UN discussed plans to expand joint development projects with lasting impact, including opportunities for regional cooperation. Pickard thanked the UN for its continued support, especially under the leadership of outgoing National Director Mukunda, whose tenure was praised by the UN representatives.
