Eswatini is a peace-loving nation – DPM
MBABANE – “Those visiting the kingdom for the first time should know that Eswatini is a peace-loving nation, deeply rooted in its culture that has been maintained for over 400 years.”
These were the words of Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Themba Masuku, when he officially opened the Rotary Club conference yesterday at Esibayeni Lodge.
The DPM welcomed Rotarians for choosing Eswatini to be the host of this year’s annual conference.
Masuku said the four-day conference will provide Rotarians with a platform to network, exchange ideas, reconnect with friends, and find inspiration for continuing to provide service and community leadership.
He said the most important thing they should enjoy was the beautiful scenery, the warmth and the hospitality of emaSwati.
The DPM was particular in thanking the Rotary 9400 District Governor Koekie Makunyane-Quashie for ensuring Eswatini was the host of this year’s annual conference.
He assured the delegates that government was honoured for being chosen to host the worldwide humanitarian organisation.
Masuku said the organisation was known for bringing together business and professional leaders in pursuit of community service, integrity, advancing goodwill, peace, and understanding in the world under the theme ‘Imagine the magic and celebrate Rotary’.
Humanitarian
“Under this theme, I am informed that Rotarians seek to showcase and celebrate the humanitarian work and impact of the rotary club in the District 9400 on their respective countries and publicise the work done by these clubs,” said the DPM.
He informed the delegates that Eswatini continues to be a beneficiary of the services done by Rotary in various communities. He said the local clubs have a number of initiatives such as the annual dental and medical outreach programmes carried out in schools and communities.
“Over the years, emaSwati have benefitted from the annual outreach activities which have seen the collaboration of health care workers, Rotarians, schools and community leaders to deliver medical and dental services in parts of the country where the services and expertise would normally be difficult to access.
He also shared that the Rotary outreach programmes such as the school oral health and medical assessment for the elderly programme in communities, give impetus to existing government programmes such as the National School Health and Elderly Care programmes.
Meanwhile, DPM assured that all required support will be availed to ensure the success of the conference and the safety of attendees.