A Day of Service and Community Engagement
By Major Timothy Mabaso
On 25 October 2025, the Territorial Leaders, accompanied by Divisional Commander Major Naomi Malinga, began a full day of ministry and community engagement in eSwatini.
The morning began at the Msunduza Primary Health Care Clinic and Community Development Centre, where the leaders joined staff and patients for their daily prayer session. Afterward, they met with the Msunduza Ministries personnel, offering encouragement and motivation. The Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Commissioner Deise Eliasen, spoke about the importance of believing and trusting God in every circumstance, especially in the service of humanity. The Territorial Commander, Commissioner Torben Eliasen, emphasized teamwork, illustrating that effective service requires hands, hearts, and minds working together. “Nothing can be achieved by working alone,” he said, “but when we unite in purpose, there is assurance of efficiency and productivity in serving others.”
Later in the day, the leaders travelled to Manzini for the graduation ceremony of students from The Salvation Army eSwatini Skills Training Project. Eleven students received their certificates of completion. The Territorial Leaders began by touring the Skills Hall, graciously made available to The Salvation Army by the Manzini City Municipality Council. They then met with city officials, community leaders, and the Mayor’s representative, all of whom expressed deep appreciation for The Salvation Army’s contribution to community development and transformation.
When addressing the graduates, the Territorial Leaders encouraged them to use their new skills to benefit not only themselves and their families but also their communities. They urged them to continue learning and to value the opportunity they had been given, reminding them that education and empowerment are tools for lasting transformation.
The day concluded in Mbabane, where the leaders attended the Annual Health Fair Campaign organized by the Mbabane City Council. The event brings together health institutions to offer free health checks, advice, and care to city residents. The Salvation Army eSwatini has long participated in this initiative. The Territorial Leaders visited various stalls, greeting health workers, offering words of encouragement, and even taking part by having their own health checks done.
A Farewell Filled with Gratitude and Praise
By Lieutenant Philani Khumalo
The Mpumalanga and eSwatini Division recently held a farewell salute for our Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Commissioners Torben & Deise Eliasen. The three-day visit was filled with moments of reflection, gratitude, and heartfelt praise for their years of faithful service.
On Saturday, Officers gathered for fellowship, during which the Territorial Commander and TPWM shared about their 42 and 40 years of service respectively. They encouraged Officers to remain faithful to their calling, even through challenges, reminding them that perseverance in ministry honours God.
Sunday brought a Spirit-filled celebration hosted by Langeloop Corps. Though farewells are never easy, the day was filled with joyful praise, expressing the Division’s deep appreciation for the leaders’ authentic, Christlike leadership. Mrs Chitate, speaking on behalf of the Soldiers, described them as leaders marked by humility, love, and genuine care. She highlighted the TPWM’s warmth and compassion, recalling how she was always ready with a hug for everyone she met.
Captain Crispen Shereni, speaking on behalf of the Officers, shared how the TC would always begin every conversation with, “How are you doing?”, a question that reflected his sincere concern for others. He also mentioned how the TPWM made it a point to send birthday wishes to every Officer, a small but meaningful expression of care.
During a special time for the children, the TPWM shared a lesson about the cross, reminding the children that even when no one else says it, Jesus cares deeply for them and holds them close to His heart.
In his final words, the TC reflected on the story of Peter walking on water. He reminded everyone that even when we start to sink under life’s challenges, “there is Jesus around your boat.” The farewell included various cultural expressions of African praise—boMake belutsango, Tsonga dance, uMbutfo, performances by the Divisional Songsters and Band, Tonga Youth, and the eMangweni Sunday School Timbrels.
The Division expressed deep gratitude for the Territorial Leaders’ kind, humble, and authentic leadership, assuring them that they will be greatly missed.