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MBABANE — A high-level delegation from the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has wrapped up a pivotal week-long mission to Eswatini, marking the body’s first official visit to the kingdom since 2016.
From July 14 to 20, the delegation engaged in a comprehensive assessment of the human rights landscape, meeting with government authorities, civil society organisations, and representatives of international agencies.
The visit followed an official invitation from His Majesty King Mswati III and was endorsed by the Eswatini Government.
Heading the delegation was Commissioner Rémy Ngoy Lumbu, Chairperson of the Commission and Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders in Africa.
He was joined by fellow Commissioners Dr Litha Musyimi-Ogana and Marie Louise Abomo, both of whom are renowned for their work on the rights of vulnerable populations across the continent.
During the mission, the delegation held wide-ranging consultations on the state of civic freedoms, the protection of human rights defenders, and the challenges facing marginalised groups within the country.
The meetings, which included discussions with ministers, legal experts, activists, and diplomatic partners, aimed to foster dialogue and identify areas of progress and concern in the kingdom’s human rights framework.
Commissioner Lumbu noted the importance of the visit in strengthening cooperation between the Commission and Eswatini. “This mission is a significant step toward deepening our engagement with member states on the promotion and protection of human rights,” he said.
The delegation is expected to present its findings in a formal report to the African Union, which will include recommendations aimed at advancing human rights protections and fostering inclusive governance in Eswatini.
As the kingdom continues to navigate a complex political landscape, observers say the Commission’s visit may signal a renewed push for transparency, accountability, and regional engagement on human rights issues.
