Mbabane – The Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, working with the cooling industry, marked World Ozone Day today at the George Hotel, where government announced new steps to protect the ozone layer.
Tourism and Environmental Affairs Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane unveiled the amended Ozone Depleting Substances and Hydrofluorocarbon Regulations of 2025, committing the country to phase down harmful HFCs while strengthening climate action.
The commemorations were held under the global theme “From Science to Global Action,” which recalls how research led to international agreements such as the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol. 
As part of its implementation drive, the Eswatini Environment Authority has trained 14 Environmental Inspectors drawn from municipalities, company towns and the Ministry of Health. The training covered leak detection, ozone layer science, refrigerant classification, as well as basic refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
Minister Mkhonta-Simelane, who delivered the keynote address, urged collective responsibility in safeguarding the ozone layer and securing the health of future generations. The event was attended by senators, development partners and other stakeholders supporting Eswatini’s environmental efforts.
