By Mfanufikile Khathwane (Intern)
MBABANE – The Deputy Prime Minister’s Office has urged lawmakers to fast-track the passing of the Disaster Risk Management Bill, which is expected to strengthen the country’s ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Senator Thulisile Dladla, made this call during a meeting with Senators, Members of the Portfolio Committee, and Chiefs at the Hilton Garden Inn in Mbabane on July 4, 2025.
Senator Dladla pleaded with the lawmakers to go through the Bill clause by clause. She stressed the importance of the Bill, saying it will enable the country to raise awareness about the devastating effects of climate change, including droughts and severe storms , which are already impacting Eswatini and the rest of the world.
The President of the House of Senate Princess Lindiwe Dlamini, welcomed the Bill, stating that it would bring significant benefits to the nation. She pointed out that disasters have cost the country dearly, destroying infrastructure, stalling development, and negatively affecting people’s lives.
“It is about time we are educated on how to prevent and respond to disasters. This law will help us be proactive, not reactive,” she said.
Senator Sicelo Dlamini, representing the DPM’s Portfolio Committee, supported the initiative and said Eswatini must be proactive in facing future disasters.
The Chief Executive Officer of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) Victor Mahlalela also emphasized the Importance of the Bill. He stated that while disasters cannot be prevented from occurring, swift action must be taken when they do happen.
“It is critical for the country to invest financially in disaster preparedness. The Bill outlines that we must be ready to respond using the latest technology. When citizens are educated about disasters, they become the first line of response,” Mahlalela said.
The new Bill, once enacted, is expected to empower communities and government agencies to act faster and more effectively in disaster situations. It seeks to ensure that the country does not relive the traumatic effects of the 2015–2016 drought, which led to the death of over 90,000 livestock and destroyed crops, resulting in an estimated economic loss of E1.84 billion.
With the passing of this law, Eswatini aims to be better prepared for future disasters and reduce the impact on people’s lives and livelihoods.
