BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE– As the continent marks Africa Day 2026, the African Women’s Peace and Development Foundation (AWPDF) Eswatini Chapter is shifting the narrative on water security. Under the theme “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” the organization has adopted an empowering localized subtheme: “Water is Not a Resource. It is a RIGHT!”.
In a live panel discussion held on May 25, 2026, the foundation fostered a collaborative dialogue focused on creating a brighter, water-secure future. Acting Director of AWPDF Khangezile Dlamini opened the session by affirming that because water is a fundamental right, it should be accessible to all. Dlamini noted that citizens can work in partnership with the government and stakeholders to ensure this right is realized.
The event highlighted the vast positive potential that comes with secure water access. Dlamini stated, “One of the questions that should be in our minds is number one: what is the true cost of water insecurity? What does that really mean? Measured not in liters of water, but in the girls’ education”. The discussion celebrated how prioritizing water security can protect women’s health and unlock the untapped economic productivity and youth potential within communities.
A major focus of the panel was the exciting opportunity to make water governance more inclusive and community-centered. Dlamini invited participants to consider how incorporating local knowledge can strengthen water initiatives. Regarding boardroom decisions, Dlamini asked, “Whose voices are in the room? Who are… whose voices are not in that room?”. This framing encouraged attendees to envision a future where the people who know their water needs best are active, valued partners in finding sustainable solutions.
Looking ahead to the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the discussion turned to the promising work ahead in Eswatini over the next five years. The panel emphasized that by determining the right investments, policy reforms, and community-led actions, Eswatini can successfully close existing gaps.
As the AWPDF highlights, “Where water flows, equality grows. Where women lead, communities thrive”. By scaling up investments and ensuring that community-led action is at the forefront of policy, the foundation is striving to ensure that Eswatini meets these critical milestones. The panel concluded with a hopeful call for continued collaboration, solidifying the path toward a more equitable and prosperous future where water is guaranteed for all.
#WaterIsARight #AfricaDay2026 #AWPDF #Eswatini #WaterSecurity #SustainableDevelopment #Agenda2063 #WomenInLeadership
(Courtesy Pic)
