ESWATINI RECORDS 911 MOZ ASYLUM SEEKERS

MANZINI – The country has recorded a total of 911 asylum seekers from Mozambique as the post-election violent protests continue to escalate.

This was revealed by Prime Minister (PM) Russell Dlamini when updating the nation about the situation in Mozambique yesterday. The PM said following the unrest that erupted in recent months in neighbouring Mozambique, the Kingdom of Eswatini has experienced an influx of asylum seekers. He said the asylum seekers comprise of all gender and demographic groups. He said the number of asylum seekers remained relatively low and stable between November to around December 14, 2024, with daily counts not exceeding 23 arrivals.

Observed

However, a significant increase in arrivals has been observed from December 15, 2024, with daily counts reaching as high as 399 on December 29, 2024. “As of yesterday - December 30, 2024, a total of 911 asylum seekers had been registered at Malindza Camp. “It is important to note that the above figures only account for those people who sought to be registered and requested to be accommodated at the Malindza Camp,” the PM said. He said, noting the surge in the number of asylum seekers and following an assessment of the situation conducted on December 27, 2024 by the different stakeholders, led by the Ministry of Home Affairs, a high-level meeting was convened at the Private and Cabinet Office, to deliberate on the influx of individuals seeking refuge within the country’s borders.The premier said it is important to re-emphasise government’s commitment to upholding human dignity and international humanitarian principles, together with its readiness to extend protection and support to those fleeing the disturbances.

Assessment

According to the PM, the high-level meeting considered the situation updates provided by the different stakeholders, the camp assessment report highlighting the need for essential supplies, shelter conditions, water supply, sanitation and hygiene facilities and a draft response plan. He said government will be meeting weekly to get updates and guidance on the situation and to ensure a coordinated and efficient response.

“The Deputy Prime Minister’s (DPMs) Office has been designated, through the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), to coordinate government’s technical response team, which has been tasked with, among other things, finalising the draft Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and implementing systems for tracking new arrivals, monitoring the situation and providing weekly updates to a ministerial coordination team led by the PM’s Office,” the premier said. He then said government appeals to all partners and stakeholders for support in responding to this humanitarian challenge.

He said this challenge urgently requires resources to provide shelter, food, healthcare and other essential services to the asylum seekers. He said stakeholders’ cooperation and solidarity in this effort will be instrumental in ensuring the well-being of those displaced. The PM also appealed to all asylum seekers who have arrived in the country to register promptly with the High Commission of Mozambique, the Malindza Camp, security patrols along the borderline and immigration officials.

Assistance

He said registration is a critical step in ensuring that they can provide appropriate assistance and services, as well as maintain public safety and order.  He then said as government, they assure the nation that security remains a top priority and urged local authorities and community leaders in all regions to collaborate with the central administration to ensure that every asylum seeker is registered and accounted for.  He said this will help government manage the situation effectively and uphold their shared responsibility to protect vulnerable populations. He added that while they navigate this complex situation, they ask for the understanding and support of the citizens. He said together, they can ensure a compassionate and coordinated response to this pressing humanitarian need.

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