By EPN Reporter
LOBAMBA – Nomalungelo Simelane, affectionately known as LaZwide and serving as the Member of Parliament for Siphofaneni, has captured national attention by voting in favor of the E5.2 billion Loan Bill to fund the construction of a Strategic Oil Reserve Facility in Phuzumoya, a key area within her constituency.
Her decision has turned heads not only for its potential to uplift the local economy but also for defying her husband, Mduduzi “Gawuzela” Simelane, an exiled politician and leader of the Sw’ziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO), who has been lobbying parliamentarians to reject the bill.
The Strategic Oil Reserve Facility in Phuzumoya is set to bring significant economic growth to Siphofaneni, a community situated approximately 50 kilometers southeast of the capital, Mbabane. The project is expected to create hundreds of jobs for local residents, offering a welcome solution to the high unemployment rates that have long challenged the region. Supporters of the bill believe the facility will also drive infrastructure development, including better roads, utilities, and services, ensuring sustained growth for the area.
“This project is a game-changer for Siphofaneni,” LaZwide stated during a parliamentary session. “It will provide jobs and opportunities for our youth and bring much-needed development to our community.”
LaZwide, a celebrated gospel artist before entering politics, was elected as Siphofaneni’s MP in August 2022, succeeding her husband, who fled into exile after an arrest warrant was issued against him in connection with the 2021 political unrest. Her decision to back the loan bill has been met with praise from local constituents, who are hopeful about the economic prospects it offers. “We have faith in LaZwide. This project could change our lives and give us hope for a better future,” shared Bandile Khoza, a 25-year-old resident of Siphofaneni, highlighting the region’s desperate need for job opportunities.
Nonetheless, LaZwide’s vote has put her at odds with her husband, Mduduzi “Gawuzela” Simelane, a vocal government critic and SWALIMO founder. Gawuzela, who sought refuge in South Africa in 2021 after being accused of inciting riots, has been campaigning against the loan bill, citing concerns over transparency and the risk of mismanagement.
However, LaZwide’s supporters argue that her decision reflects a pragmatic and community-centered approach. “LaZwide is doing what’s best for Siphofaneni,” said a local community leader who wished to remain anonymous. “She’s not just following her husband’s agenda; she’s making decisions for her people.”
With LaZwide’s support, the E5.2 billion loan bill has been passed, clearing the way for the construction of the Strategic Oil Reserve Facility. While the project promises to revitalize Siphofaneni’s economy, it also underscores the intricate interplay of personal, political, and economic interests in Eswatini.
For now, the people of Siphofaneni remain hopeful that LaZwide’s bold decision will bring about the prosperity she envisions, turning promise into tangible progress for the entire community.
