Female officer makes history as King’s interpreter

MANZINI – History was made during the 23^rd Police Day celebrations after Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) officer Tshidi Mdluli became only the second woman to interpret for His Majesty King Mswati III at a major national event.

Mdluli interpreted the King’s address throughout the celebrations held at the Matsapha Police Academy yesterday, joining a small group of interpreters who have performed one of the country’s most prestigious ceremonial duties.

Her appointment came just weeks after Tandzile Maziya broke the long-standing barrier by becoming the first woman to interpret for His Majesty during the 18^th Correctional Services Day celebrations held at the Matsapha Correctional Staff College on Thursday June 19, 2026.

Mdluli’s performance marked another significant milestone in advancing women’s representation in roles that have traditionally been dominated by men at national state ceremonies.

Interpreting for the King is regarded as one of the most demanding responsibilities at royal events, requiring fluency in both siSwati and English, exceptional public speaking skills, composure and the ability to accurately convey His Majesty’s message before thousands of attendees and a national audience.

The achievement also reflected growing confidence in women serving in senior and specialised roles within the country’s security services.

During the celebrations, Mdluli confidently interpreted the King’s address, which focused on strengthening the Royal Eswatini Police Service through a planned recruitment exercise, modern policing skills, cybercrime prevention, officer fitness and regional cooperation.

Yesterday’s milestone came barely six weeks after Maziya became the first woman interpreter to serve His Majesty at a national event, signalling a new chapter in breaking barriers for women serving in prominent ceremonial and leadership roles within the country’s public institutions.

With Mdluli now becoming the second woman to undertake the prestigious assignment, the Police Day celebrations will be remembered not only for the King’s announcements on policing but also for another significant step in the country’s journey towards greater representation of women in high-profile national duties.