BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The Kingdom of Eswatini is taking proactive steps to enhance governance, transparency, and land management in Hlatikhulu through the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry, announced by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to accountability and its determination to address community concerns constructively.
Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Appolo Maphalala (MP), has formally appointed the Commission to investigate governance and land-management practices within the Hlatikhulu Town Board. This follows reports submitted to the Principal Secretary’s office highlighting the need for improved oversight, administrative efficiency, and effective land-use practices in the area.
According to the Ministry, a fact-finding mission by officials identified areas where governance could be strengthened. A detailed audit by the Ministry’s Internal Audit Department further highlighted the value of a comprehensive, independent inquiry. By acting swiftly, the government demonstrates a commitment to responsible management and ensuring that local authorities meet the expectations of residents and stakeholders.
The Commission of Inquiry has been established under the Commission of Enquiry Act of 1963, read together with the Urban Government Act No. 8 of 1969. These legal frameworks empower the Minister to appoint inspectors to assess council adherence to legal obligations and to establish a Commission where municipal malfunctions or administrative challenges are suspected. This ensures that the investigation is transparent, impartial, and thorough.
Minister Maphalala emphasized that the formation of the Commission is not merely a response to challenges but a forward-looking measure aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and promoting good governance. “This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to ensure that governance structures operate efficiently, transparently, and in the best interests of our citizens,” he said.
The Ministry highlighted that the Commission will provide clear guidance and recommendations for enhancing land management, administrative practices, and overall service delivery within the Hlatikhulu Town Board. By addressing gaps proactively, the government aims to build a robust system of accountability benefiting residents, investors, and local authorities alike.
Experts in public administration note that such initiatives reinforce public confidence in governance structures and demonstrate a commitment to rule-of-law principles. By creating an independent platform for evaluation and recommendations, Eswatini is fostering a culture of transparency, integrity, and continuous improvement in municipal governance.
Citizens and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the process and contribute to the constructive development of their local governance. The Ministry has assured the public that the Commission will operate openly and that its findings will be used to implement practical solutions that strengthen both service delivery and community trust.
With this initiative, Eswatini continues to demonstrate leadership in governance, combining accountability with proactive reform. By addressing challenges head-on, the government is building a stronger foundation for sustainable development, effective land management, and responsive local governance—ensuring communities like Hlatikhulu benefit from transparent, efficient, and people-focused administration.
Commission Membership
- Zandile Dhlamini (Legal) – Chairperson
- Fikile Dlamini – Member
- Gideon Mhlongo – Member
- Buhle Makhubu – Secretary
Mandate of the Commission:
- Governance, internal controls, and administrative performance of the Hlatikhulu Town Board.
- Spatial management across the urban area, including the rise of unplanned settlements.
- Building control enforcement and the extent of regulatory compliance.
- Land allocation and sale practices, including allegations of unlawful benefit by any councilor, official, or individual.
- Processes surrounding valuation roll preparation and implementation.
- Any other matters incidental to the mandate.
The Commission will operate for one month from the date of its inaugural meeting. The Ministry urges residents, stakeholders, and all staff members of the Hlatikhulu Town Board, as well as relevant parties, to fully cooperate with the Commission.
This inquiry forms part of the government’s ongoing commitment to good governance, transparency, accountability, and the protection of public assets. The Ministry will provide updates as the inquiry progresses and remains committed to ensuring that all municipalities uphold the highest standards of integrity and service delivery.
