By Mduduzi Hlophe

EZULWINI.The Kingdom Of Eswatini has signed the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2021-2025 worth E 1.4 billion in a ceremony held at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini on Thursday.

The framework defines how the United Nations (UN) system will support the implementation of Eswatini’s priorities outlined in the National Development Plan, Strategic Roadmap, Vision 2022 and the Post COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan for the next five years.

Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Ambrose Mandvulo Dlamini said the Framework will make a reality of Agenda 2030 and His Majesty’s Vision 2022.

‘‘Our gathering today signifies our re-commitment to the people of Eswatini and the world, as we seek to achieve Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Agenda 2030 serves as a blueprint for peace and prosperity for all people in the world. It is through our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable cooperation Framework, to be signed today , that we will make a reality of Agenda 2030 and His Majesty’s Vision 2022.The framework represents the globally shared vision to end poverty , reduce inequalities ,tackle climate change and enable sustainable economic growth’’, he said.

UN Resident Coordinator Nathalie Ndongo reiterated the UN’s commitment to serving the people of Eswatini and to collaborate with government to see transformation and development.

‘‘This Framework is a symbol of the United Nation’s continued and deep commitment to the people of Eswatini. The framework is founded on three principles; prosperity, people and the planet’’, she said.

But Brian Sangweni, the Spokesperson for the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) when reached for comments said the contribution from the UN would be appreciated if it was given to a democratic government and people centred.

‘‘Experience over the years has showed us that under the Tinkhundla Administration the contributions from international players does not reach the people at the grassroots level or rather the programs they intend to support. This defeats the purpose of such contributions as they end up in the hands of the royal elites and friends’’, he said.

INFO: Government