BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE – World Vision Eswatini has handed over two vehicles to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy to strengthen the implementation of rural water projects expected to benefit 18 constituencies across the country.
The handover took place on 30 April 2026 under the Universal Water Service Coverage Project, a 50:50 partnership between the Government of Eswatini and World Vision aimed at expanding access to safe water by 2030 through improved planning, monitoring and delivery of water services.
Receiving the vehicles, Minister of Natural Resources and Energy HRH Prince Lonkhokhela said the support comes at a meaningful moment for the country. “The cars came at the right time as a country we are still at a happy mood celebrating His Majesty’s 58th birthday and 40 years of reign,” HRH Prince Lonkhokhela said.
He said the vehicles will improve the ministry’s ability to reach project sites, monitor progress and ensure that water systems remain functional after completion, adding that communities in the 18 constituencies targeted under the programme will directly benefit.
World Vision Eswatini National Director Amos Zaindi said the vehicles will strengthen coordination between the project secretariat and the Department of Water Affairs. He said they will also improve data collection and field supervision, which are essential for effective delivery of water infrastructure projects.
The programme is already supporting several communities through projects such as the Tfutfukani Water Scheme in Mhlangatane, water schemes and spring protection works in Ekukhanyeni, and the Mlindazwe–Tsambekwako Water Supply Project under Gege Inkhundla, which serves BakaMdluli and Hlatshwako.
The 18 constituencies earmarked for support will receive phased water interventions aimed at improving access to clean and reliable water, with further rollout expected within the current financial year.
The initiative is guided by the Nkwe framework and aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all by 2030.
Government and World Vision have committed to continuing the partnership to expand water access and improve living conditions in rural communities across Eswatini.
