Eswatini hosting regional and international events

Eswatini has become a central hub for regional and continental gatherings. In late September 2026, the country hosted the 20th Southern Africa Inter-Municipal Sports Association (SAIMSA) Games at the Mavuso Sports and Exhibition Centre. The event involved delegates from 55 municipalities across Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Eswatini, focusing on athletic competition and municipal cooperation regarding urban planning and infrastructure.

Following these games, Eswatini prepared to host three major international conferences in early October 2026. These include the African Union’s inaugural Africa Seed Summit, the 17th EUMETSAT User Forum in Africa, and the Pan-African Conference on Teachers’ Education (PACTED 2026).

On October 4, 2026, the African Union Regional Seed Summit commenced at the Ezulwini Palazzo Convention Centre. Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka reported that over 1,200 delegates had already registered, with a target of 1,500 participants for the three-day event focused on seed systems and agricultural development. King Mswati III is scheduled to officially open the summit on its second day.

Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane anticipates that more than 3,000 people may attend the agriculture conference. This influx is expected to provide a significant opportunity for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to benefit from conference tourism through sectors such as hospitality, transport, traditional crafts, and local food production.