BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The Eswatini Government has allocated E30 million towards the refurbishment and reconstruction of eight schools under Mayiwane Inkhundla, following extensive damage caused by severe hailstorms in December last year.
The affected institutions include both primary and high schools, some of which sustained such extensive damage that complete reconstruction is required. The investment forms part of Government’s broader commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to quality education, even in the aftermath of natural disasters.
Mayiwane Member of Parliament Sicelo Dlamini has welcomed the intervention, praising Government for its swift and decisive response to the crisis. He described the allocation as a strong demonstration of Government’s dedication to the welfare of learners and the long-term development of communities within the constituency.
“We must commend Government for responding positively and decisively to the challenges faced by our schools,” Dlamini said. “Some contractors are already on site, working tirelessly to restore learning facilities so that our children can return to a safe and supportive environment.”
The MP acknowledged that persistent heavy rains had initially slowed down construction and rehabilitation efforts, making it difficult for contractors to operate efficiently. However, he noted that recent improvements in weather conditions have enabled work to progress at a faster pace.
“With the weather now showing signs of improvement, we are seeing encouraging progress on the ground,” he said. “We are hopeful that within the next two to three weeks, the situation will have improved significantly, and learning environments will be restored.”
Beyond repairing storm-damaged infrastructure, part of the E30 million allocation will also be used to establish Grade Zero facilities within the Inkhundla. This initiative is aimed at strengthening early childhood development and ensuring that young learners are well prepared for a smooth transition into primary education from next year.
The introduction of Grade Zero classes is expected to enhance learning outcomes by laying a strong educational foundation and improving school readiness among children in the area.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has called on the public to continue cooperating with authorities during this challenging period. The agency noted that the recent heavy rains have caused widespread damage not only to schools, but also to homes, roads and other critical infrastructure across the country.
NDMA emphasised that community cooperation is essential to ensure effective disaster response, recovery and rebuilding efforts, particularly as rehabilitation work continues in affected areas.
Encouragingly, the Eswatini Meteorological Service has reported that weather conditions are expected to stabilise from this week onwards. According to forecasts, the intense and prolonged rainfall that affected many parts of the country is gradually easing, with more familiar and manageable weather patterns anticipated in the coming weeks.
This positive outlook is expected to further support ongoing reconstruction efforts and allow contractors and communities to make steady progress in restoring essential services.
The E30 million refurbishment programme stands as a symbol of resilience, collaboration and Government’s commitment to safeguarding education, ensuring that learners in Mayiwane Inkhundla can continue their studies in safe, dignified and well-equipped environments despite recent challenges.
