BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
LOGOBA– A renewed sense of dignity and relief filled Logoba as Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla officially opened the Umbono Lomuhle Bomake Logoba Market on June 5 2026 in Logoba, marking a life-changing milestone for women who have spent decades trading under harsh conditions to sustain their families.
A project supported by E300 000 contribution from Mula Sport, the newly completed market structure brings long-awaited relief to 20 women who have relied on informal trading for more than 30 years. For many of them, this moment represents a rare turning point after years of operating in open spaces exposed to heavy rains, scorching heat, and cold winds that have defined their daily struggle for survival.
The Umbono Lomuhle Bomake Logoba Market now provides a safe, organised, and dignified trading environment designed to improve working conditions and strengthen income stability. The structure is expected to enhance small-scale business growth, improve daily operations, and support household livelihoods through a more reliable trading space.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla expressed appreciation to Mula Sport for responding to the needs of vulnerable women traders with practical support that directly improves their quality of life.
“I have seen their suffering. One day, when it was very cold, I sent staff to provide blankets and packets of rice. Thank you to the women for not giving up and for supporting your families over the years,” she said, commending their resilience and long-standing commitment to sustaining their families.
Her remarks reflected the difficult journey of the women, many of whom have spent most of their adult lives in informal trading while raising children and maintaining households under challenging economic conditions. She praised their perseverance, noting that their contribution has played a vital role in sustaining local livelihoods and supporting the informal economy.
The Deputy Prime Minister further pledged continued government support, stating that her Office, in collaboration with Owen Nxumalo, will ensure the provision of essential services such as electricity and water at the market. These developments are expected to further improve hygiene, safety, and ease of doing business.
Beneficiaries and community members have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a long-overdue intervention that restores dignity and brings renewed hope. The structured environment is also expected to reduce losses caused by weather disruptions and create a more stable and predictable trading space.
For the 20 women of Logoba, the new market structure is more than infrastructure—it is recognition of their resilience, contribution, and economic role in society. It offers not only improved working conditions but also renewed confidence and opportunity for growth.
The Umbono Lomuhle Bomake Logoba Market stands as a powerful example of community-driven development, women empowerment, and meaningful partnership in advancing inclusive economic progress in Eswatini.
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