Eswatini legal & regulatory news

Eswatini: Actualizing Copyright Law for Economic Development

Eswatini SMVAF: Settles 183 Claims Worth E21.8 Million

The Swaziland Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF) has paid out E21.8 million in 183 claims during the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year, according to Acting Chief Operations Officer Phindile Mthethwa. This significant payout highlights the growing number of motor vehicle accidents in Eswatini and the increasing burden on the SMVAF to provide compensation to affected individuals. The settlement of these claims is a crucial aspect of the Fund's operational performance, as it ensures that those who have been injured or lost loved ones due to road accidents receive the necessary financial support. The relevant legislation governing the SMVAF is the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund Act (Cap 23:01), which provides for the establishment and management of the Fund. The Act also outlines the procedures for making claims against the Fund, including the requirements for notification and documentation. In addition to this legislation, the SMVAF's operations are guided by the principles of the Road Traffic Act (Cap 22:01), which regulates road safety and traffic laws in Eswatini. The key parties involved in this matter include the SMVAF, which is responsible for managing the Fund and processing claims. The Acting Chief Operations Officer, Phindile Mthethwa, has disclosed the figures on the payout, providing insight into the operational performance of the Fund. Practitioners should note that this development highlights the importance of ensuring compliance with the relevant legislation and regulations governing motor vehicle accidents in Eswatini.

Eswatini Parliament Debates Alleged Agenda to Cripple The Luke Commission

In Eswatini, MP Marwick Khumalo has accused a group of pushing a negative narrative against The Luke Commission (TLC) in Parliament. The allegations come as MPs debated a motion by Matsanjeni South MP, with Khumalo claiming that the movement's agenda is to cripple and destroy TLC. This development highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Eswatini, particularly those involved in healthcare and social services. The legal context of this situation involves the Eswatini government's regulations on NGOs, which require them to register and comply with certain standards. However, the exact nature of the allegations against TLC is not specified in the excerpt, leaving it unclear whether any specific laws or regulations have been breached. Key parties involved include The Luke Commission, a healthcare NGO, and the Eswatini Parliament, where the motion was debated. Practitioners should monitor this situation closely as it may set a precedent for future scrutiny of NGOs in Eswatini. Attorneys representing TLC or other NGOs should be prepared to navigate any potential regulatory challenges that may arise from these allegations.

Eswatini High Court: Construction Industry Corruption Flagged by National Policy

The Eswatini government has identified corruption, weak tender processes, and poor oversight as persistent problems in the country's E1.43 billion construction industry. These concerns are contained in the National Construction Industry Policy 2025–2031, which highlights the need for transparency and fair competition in the sector. The policy notes that corruption, unfair practices, financial constraints, poor service delivery, and inadequate oversight have hindered the growth of the construction industry in Eswatini. This is a significant issue, as the construction sector is a major contributor to the country's economy. The National Construction Industry Policy 2025–2031 is a key document that outlines the government's vision for the development of the construction industry in Eswatini. The policy is guided by the Building and Civil Engineering Act (Cap. 123) and the Public Finance Management Act (Cap. 7), which provide the regulatory framework for the sector. The policy also takes into account international best practices, including those outlined in the African Union's Convention on the Protection and Promotion of Rights of Workers with Disabilities. The key parties involved in this matter are the Eswatini government, through the Ministry of Works and Transport, which is responsible for implementing the National Construction Industry Policy 2025–2031. The policy will have a significant impact on practitioners in the construction industry, who must ensure that their tender processes are transparent and fair. Attorneys should monitor the implementation of the policy and be aware of any changes to the regulatory framework that may affect their clients' businesses. Practitioners should take note of the emphasis on transparency and fair competition in the National Construction Industry Policy 2025–2031, as this will likely lead to increased scrutiny of tender processes and business practices in the construction sector. Attorneys should advise their clients to ensure that they are complying with the policy's requirements and to be prepared for any changes to the regulatory framework.

Eswatini Football Association's Players Status Committee: Karas Contract Dispute Update

The Eswatini Football Association (EF) Players Status Committee (PSC) has been involved in a dispute between Mbabane Swallows and Bongi 'Karas' Magagula, a want-away winger who has been released by the club with immediate effect. Magagula had a pending case with the EF PSC after dragging Umkhonto KaShaka before the committee over contractual issues. The release of Magagula comes at a time when the former Pigg's Peak Black Swallows player was involved in a dispute with his current club, Mbabane Swallows. The Eswatini Football Association (EF) is responsible for regulating football in Eswatini and has established the Players Status Committee (PSC) to handle disputes between players and clubs. The EF PSC's role is to ensure that players' contracts are fair and that their rights are protected. Practitioners should be aware of the dispute resolution mechanisms available under the Eswatini Football Association (EF) regulations, particularly those related to player contracts and disputes. Attorneys should advise their clients on how to navigate these processes and ensure that they comply with the relevant regulations.

Eswatini MP Alleges Minister Threatened Him Over Parliamentary Comments

In Eswatini, Member of Parliament Sabelo Mtetwa has alleged that a Cabinet minister threatened and intimidated him over comments made in Parliament. The incident is significant because it highlights the potential for intimidation and harassment of lawmakers by government officials. This can have a chilling effect on free speech and the ability of parliamentarians to hold the government accountable without fear of retribution. The relevant legal framework in Eswatini includes the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and assembly, as well as various laws that regulate the behavior of public officials. The courts in Eswatini have a role to play in upholding these rights and holding perpetrators accountable. However, it is unclear whether Mtetwa has reported the incident to the authorities or sought any redress through the courts. The key parties involved are Mtetwa himself, who made the allegations, as well as the unnamed Cabinet minister accused of intimidation. The incident also raises questions about the culture of accountability within the government and the parliament in Eswatini. Practitioners should be aware of this development and consider its implications for their clients or organizations that may be affected by similar incidents.

Eswatini Senate: Curbing Minors' Access to Harmful Social Media Content

The government of Eswatini is examining measures to shield children from harmful social media content as countries tighten age restrictions on young users. Senator Isaac Magagula asked what was being done to prevent minors from accessing social media platforms that expose them to harmful content. The issue came under scrutiny in Senate last week, highlighting the need for government intervention to protect children's online safety. The Eswatini government is likely to consider international best practices and regional regulations when developing measures to curb children's access to social media. The African Union's Convention on the Rights and Welfare of the Child may provide a framework for the government's efforts to protect children from harmful online content. Practitioners should be aware of any changes to the regulatory environment related to children's online safety, particularly those affecting businesses that operate in Eswatini. Attorneys should advise their clients on how to comply with new regulations and ensure that they are taking steps to protect children from harm.

Eswatini High Court: Sgaga Implicated in Simelane Murder Case

Selby Sgaga Dlamini, a murder accused-turned-accomplice witness, admitted he knew businessman Simelane was expected to be killed. Sgaga denied any involvement in Simelane's death and shifted blame to others during his cross-examination at the High Court.

SMVAF Explains New Legislation in Eswatini: Public Education Campaign Launched

SMVAF has launched a public education campaign in Eswatini to inform citizens about the changes brought by the new legislation. The campaign will cover all four regions of the country and aims to help members of the public understand the implications of these changes.