Mbabane – Several heads of state from the Southern African Development Community are expected in Eswatini on Friday for celebrations marking His Majesty King Mswati III’s 40 years on the throne and his 58th birthday, to be held at Somhlolo National Stadium on April 24, 2026.
According to very senior government officials within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs who spoke to this publication, Mozambican President Daniel Chapo is among those confirmed to attend the Ruby Jubilee celebrations. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Lesotho’s King Letsie III are also expected to be present.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa are yet to confirm their attendance, along with several other regional leaders. 
Following the celebrations at Somhlolo National Stadium, His Majesty will host the visiting heads of state at the newly completed International Convention Centre and Five Star Hotel.
Eswatini Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli was not immediately available for comment regarding the high-profile visits.
Taiwan President William Lai Ching-te was also highly expected to attend, given that Eswatini is the only country on the African continent that maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan. However, Lai subsequently cancelled his trip after China allegedly pressured three African countries to revoke overflight permits for his presidential aircraft.
Meanwhile, His Majesty received birthday gifts, known as tetfulo, from various companies and emaSwati amounting to over R20 million on Saturday night on the eve of his birthday. Queen Mother Ntombi Tfwala described the gifts as a demonstration of love for the King.
