Taiwan tries to hold on to Eswatini, its last remaining ally in Africa

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen meets with Eswatini's King Mswati III at the royal palace in Ludzidzini, Eswatini, on 5 September 2023. © TAIWAN PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE VIA REUTERS

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has wrapped up a visit to Eswatini, Taipei's only diplomatic ally in Africa, after signing a string of development agreements. But will the relationship hold?

Eswatini is one of only 13 countries worldwide that officially recognise Taiwan over China, which claims the self-ruled island as its own territory.