BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA (INTERN)
LOBAMBA– A total of 72 permanent positions within the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development remain vacant, with Members of Parliament calling for the posts to be filled in order to strengthen public service delivery.
The matter was raised on Tuesday, 10 March 2026 in the House of Assembly during discussions on the ministry’s 2025/26 Annual Performance Report. Hhukwini Member of Parliament Alec Lushaba highlighted the need for the ministry to fill the outstanding positions to enhance efficiency and improve the delivery of services to the public.
Speaking during the Portfolio Committee debate, Lushaba explained that the vacancies have created operational gaps within the ministry, which could affect the effectiveness of government programmes and services. He urged authorities to prioritise recruitment so that the ministry can operate at full capacity and better serve communities across the country.
“There are 72 permanent positions that still need to be filled within the ministry,” he said. “Addressing these vacancies will go a long way in strengthening service delivery and ensuring that government departments function effectively.”
The MP noted that staffing shortages do not only affect internal administration but also impact citizens who rely on timely and efficient government services. When positions remain vacant for extended periods, he explained, the workload for existing staff increases and processes may take longer to complete.
Lushaba therefore encouraged government to accelerate recruitment efforts, not only within the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development but across various government departments where similar challenges exist. Filling these posts, he said, would help improve productivity and ensure that government programmes are implemented more efficiently.
He emphasised that a well-staffed public service is essential for delivering development initiatives and maintaining public confidence in government institutions. Adequate human resources allow ministries to plan effectively, coordinate projects and respond promptly to the needs of citizens.
The MP further stressed that proactive planning is important to ensure that vacancies are addressed quickly whenever they arise. By doing so, ministries can prevent disruptions to service delivery and maintain continuity in government operations.
According to Lushaba, transparent and accountable governance also depends on the availability of sufficient human resources. When departments are properly staffed, it becomes easier to monitor programmes, track progress and ensure that public funds are utilised effectively.
He said filling the 72 positions within the ministry would contribute significantly to restoring efficiency and improving the overall performance of the department.
The debate also highlighted the broader importance of collaboration between Parliament and government ministries in addressing staffing challenges and strengthening the public sector. MPs emphasised that working together to resolve such issues helps create a more responsive and efficient government.
Lushaba concluded by encouraging continued dialogue between ministries and Parliament to prioritise recruitment and ensure that government institutions remain capable of meeting the expectations of emaSwati.
Efforts to fill vacancies and strengthen staffing levels are expected to play an important role in improving service delivery, supporting development programmes and ensuring that citizens receive the quality services they deserve.
#ParliamentEswatini #PublicServiceDelivery #GovernmentAccountability #HhukwiniMP
(Courtesy Pic)
