BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Former Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Constance Simelane has been described by His Majesty King Mswati III as a committed woman who was a cut above the rest.
This was said by Shiselweni Regional Administrator Themba Nhlanganiso Masuku, who was His Majesty’s representative, during the memorial service of the country’s first female DPM. Masuku paid tribute to the late Senator Constance Simelane, describing her as “a committed woman who was a cut above the rest.” He reflected on her distinguished lineage, noting that she followed in the footsteps of her father, Funwako Simelane, who was appointed Eswatini’s first black Minister of Finance after independence.
“Senator Constance was trustworthy and deeply loyal to every task she undertook. She left a trail of good work inscribed in the hearts of many. She was a peacemaker with a special gift for resolving complex issues—qualities that earned her a place at the United Nations,” said RA Masuku.
Her compassion for the underprivileged was evident in her advocacy for the Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Grant, and her support for Zondle Boys Home and a girls’ home in Hlathikulu.
Acting Deputy Prime Minister Phila Buthelezi expressed the profound loss felt by government and the nation:
“The passing of Senator Simelane leaves government vulnerable and without the much-needed wisdom and guidance that only experience can offer in navigating challenging times. She was a gift to her family and to the country, as recognized by His Majesty, who appointed her Minister for Education in 2003 and later as Eswatini’s first female Deputy Prime Minister.”
As Minister for Education, Senator Simelane spearheaded transformative initiatives, most notably the Education OVC Grant, which continues to pay school fees for underprivileged high school learners. In 2025 alone, 19,436 children benefited from the program—a lifeline during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
“She also championed the rights of pregnant girls, advocating for their re-admission into schools—a policy now embraced by the Ministry of Education and Training,” Buthelezi added.
“Yet, today we gather here not only in mourning, but in celebration of a life well-lived. Senator Simelane touched countless lives—directly and indirectly—through her unwavering and selfless service to Their Majesties, the citizens of Eswatini and the international community.”
Class Leader Eunice Ngwenya of the Class for the Elderly, which is held at the church, shared heartfelt sentiments.
“Make Constance was not only a leader of the nation but also a pillar of our community. May her soul rest in peace. We miss her dearly and pray that the Lord blesses us with another Constance to continue the good work she began,” Ngwenya said.
Choir representative Bakhile Lukhele praised Senator Simelane for her humility and leadership in the choir. Her tireless efforts helped the choir achieve new heights, including participating in international competitions. The Simelane family further supported the choir by sponsoring end-of-year events and providing choir attire.
Nokukhanya Gamedze of Zondle Boys Home spoke passionately about Make Constance’s love for children. Her work through the church addressed basic human needs and successfully raised funds to support vulnerable children. She notably partnered with the Simelane family to ensure food security for those in need.
Superintendent Vuyokazi May shared the Word of God from Psalm 116:13–16 and described the late Senator as a committed and seasoned Christian with a heart exposed to Jesus. Simelane died on Sunday (July 13, 2025), while undergoing treatment at Mkhiwa Clinic, Manzini. She was laid to rest at Golf Course in Manzini, after a State Funeral.
