King Mswati III, monarch of the Kingdom of Eswatini, has commenced a four-day state visit to Ghana, aimed at deepening diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between the two nations.
The King was received at the Kotoka International Airport by Ghana’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who welcomed him on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama.
Mr. Debrah was accompanied by senior government officials including the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations, Stan Xoese Dogbe; Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa; Minister for Works and Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei; and the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie. Members of the African diplomatic corps were also present to extend their welcome.
The Eswatini delegation, comprising top government officials, traditional leaders, and business representatives, joined King Mswati III. They arrived dressed in Emahiya, Eswatini’s traditional regalia—an elegant cloth worn over the shoulder and adorned with beads, symbolizing their rich cultural identity.
The arrival ceremony featured a vibrant showcase of Ghanaian hospitality. A military guard of honour, traditional drumming, and cultural performances provided a colourful welcome that celebrated the shared heritage between Eswatini and Ghana. King Mswati III is expected to spend much of his stay in the Ashanti Region, where he will be hosted by the Asantehene in Kumasi—a visit symbolizing historic ties between the Asante Kingdom and the people of Eswatini.
This official visit is King Mswati III’s first to Ghana, and the first time he has been hosted by President Mahama since the latter’s return to the presidency in January 2025. The trip, which concludes on Saturday, is seen as a strategic effort to boost cooperation in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Following the airport reception, the Eswatini leader was escorted to Jubilee House, the seat of government, for bilateral discussions with President Mahama and their respective delegations. The King received full military honours upon arrival at Jubilee House, highlighting the importance Ghana attaches to his visit.
President Mahama, joined by Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, formally welcomed the monarch with a military salute. A state banquet was later held in honour of King Mswati III, marking the beginning of what both nations hope will be a productive and enduring partnership.
