BY NOKWANDA DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE – The Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla has applauded the Municipal Council of Mbabane for placing disability inclusion at the centre of its programmes, saying the move reflected government’s commitment to building a society that leaves no one behind.
Dladla made the remarks during a courtesy visit by Alfred Adams and Mduduzi Maphalala, who were representing Chief Executive Officer Gciniwe Fakudze on Tuesday, May 20, 2026 where they briefed her on ongoing and future programmes aimed at improving the lives of persons living with disabilities in the city.
During the meeting, the council revealed plans to roll out a Smart City Accessibility Survey, an initiative expected to assess the accessibility of public spaces, buildings, transport infrastructure and essential services within Mbabane.
The survey will further identify barriers faced by persons with disabilities, including physical, informational and systemic challenges, while also measuring compliance with national accessibility standards.
Findings from the survey are expected to guide the formulation of practical recommendations that will improve accessibility and strengthen inclusive service delivery within the capital city.
Dladla stressed the importance of public participation in the exercise and called on the council to intensify awareness campaigns to ensure that families with children living with disabilities came forward and actively participated in the process.
She expressed concern over the continued stigma surrounding disability, saying some parents still hid children with disabilities from society instead of allowing them to live freely and interact with others.
“My greatest wish is for the Council to establish a child-friendly centre that will allow children to be free and creative,” she said.
The Deputy Prime Minister said such a facility would create a safe environment where children with disabilities could socialise, develop their talents and grow with confidence.
The initiative by the Municipal Council of Mbabane is seen as a significant step towards creating an inclusive smart city that caters for the needs of all residents regardless of their physical condition.
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