By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – The government has allocated E120 million to the Disaster Risk Management Fund for the 2024/25 financial year, Acting Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla announced.
Speaking about the fund’s importance, Dladla emphasized its critical role in supporting Emaswati during times of crisis, particularly as the country deals with the devastating impact of recent heavy rains. She highlighted that the fund ensures Eswatini is prepared to assist disaster victims when needed.
Dladla explained that part of the E120 million had already been used to purchase food for disaster victims. Additionally, the funds are addressing the ongoing drought affecting the nation, which has left approximately 300,000 Emaswati in urgent need of food aid.
To enhance food security, E20 million has been allocated to the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE), a parastatal under the Ministry of Agriculture. The funds will be used to grow crops such as beans, which will be distributed as food aid to those in need. Dladla noted that producing food locally is more sustainable than relying on imports and stressed the need to establish silos for food storage.
Of the total allocation, E52 million will be directed toward purchasing food for Emaswati, with a portion also allocated to supporting refugees at the Malindza Refugee Camp. However, Dladla clarified that the majority of the resources would focus on aiding Emaswati, with only a small share used for refugees.
Dladla also underscored the importance of disaster prevention rather than reaction. She highlighted the need to ensure that all Emaswati live in safe and secure housing to avoid exposure to dangerous conditions. “We need to address these vulnerabilities before disasters strike,” she said.
The Disaster Risk Management Fund represents a proactive approach to tackling the country’s challenges, aiming to protect and support Emaswati during difficult times while working toward long-term solutions.
