Latest news in Eswatini? September 13th, 2026

The latest news and major developments in Eswatini around September 13, 2026, include:

• Passing of Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini and the Law Society of Eswatini have paid tribute to the late Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala, the first liSwati to hold the office, following his recent passing. The Prime Minister urged the public and media to respect the grieving family and avoid politicizing the tragedy. Times of Eswatini+ 1
• Second Leg of Umhlanga (Reed Dance): Thousands of Imbali gathered at the Mbangweni Royal Residence in the Shiselweni region for the cultural ceremonies of the second leg of the annual Umhlanga festival. Times of Eswatini
• Youth Mental Health Concerns: A report highlighted by national media revealed that roughly one in four adolescents in the country reported attempting suicide, prompting calls for expanded youth mental health intervention programs from health authorities. www.eswatiniobserver.com
• Healthcare Infrastructure: King Mswati III officially inaugurated the E200 million Khanyisile Hee Yeon Medical Centre in Ezulwini, tasking the Ministry of Health with establishing a sustainable operational plan. Meanwhile, reports raised concerns over overcrowding and resource strains at the National Psychiatric Referral Hospital in Manzini. Times of Eswatini
• Sports Updates: Team Eswatini is competing in the FIDE Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, facing Vietnam after an opening-round match against Turkmenistan. In football, continental campaigns concluded as local clubs wrapped up their qualifying runs in CAF club competitions. Times of Eswatini