BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI– At a time when environmental sustainability, youth unemployment and community development remain key priorities for Eswatini, a youth-led initiative in Manzini is demonstrating how young Emaswati can turn environmental challenges into opportunities.
ECO Manzini Solutions, founded and directed by Mthobisi Comfort Msibi, is leading community-based efforts focused on waste management, recycling, clean-up campaigns, tree planting and environmental awareness, while seeking to create meaningful opportunities for young people through the green economy.
The organisation was established with a vision of contributing to a cleaner and greener Eswatini while empowering young people to take an active role in addressing environmental challenges.
Msibi said young people should not wait for large amounts of funding before taking action in their communities.
“We believe that we should not wait until we have millions of emalangeni before we start making a difference. We can start with what we have, mobilise young people and make an impact in our communities,” said Msibi.
ECO Manzini Solutions has been engaging communities and institutions through clean-up campaigns, recycling awareness and tree-planting initiatives. The organisation has also volunteered in environmental activities supported by the Municipal Council of Manzini, demonstrating its commitment to community development despite operating with limited resources.
The organisation is now preparing to extend its environmental work to the Imbube Marathon 2026, where it will contribute environmental services aimed at promoting a cleaner and more sustainable event.
Under its “Green Den” environmental theme, ECO Manzini Solutions plans to mobilise young people and school environmental clubs to participate in waste collection, environmental awareness, tree planting and maintaining clean surroundings.
The initiative is expected to leave a lasting environmental legacy beyond the marathon by encouraging participants and communities to make environmental responsibility part of their everyday lives.
For ECO Manzini Solutions, environmental protection is not simply about collecting waste but also about creating economic opportunities.
The organisation believes that materials often regarded as rubbish can become valuable resources through recycling, upcycling and other environmentally friendly businesses. Its areas of interest include paper, cardboard, plastics, metals, bottles and cans.
“We want young people to see waste differently. What one person considers rubbish can become another person’s raw material, income or business opportunity,” Msibi explained.
The organisation’s approach places youth at the centre of the green economy, with the potential to create employment, encourage entrepreneurship and strengthen recycling value chains in the country.
ECO Manzini Solutions recently applied for support through the Eswatini Environment Fund but was unsuccessful. However, the funding setback has not weakened its determination to pursue its environmental mission.
Msibi said the organisation would continue working with its members, communities and partners while seeking new opportunities to expand its programmes.
“Not receiving funding does not mean that we should stop believing in our vision. We will continue knocking on doors, building partnerships and demonstrating what young people can achieve when they work together,” he said.
The organisation is calling on municipalities, government departments, schools, private companies, development organisations and other stakeholders to partner with young people in environmental programmes.
According to Msibi, stronger partnerships could help Eswatini address waste-management challenges while creating new opportunities for youth employment and entrepreneurship.
The long-term ambition of ECO Manzini Solutions is to grow into a sustainable environmental services organisation capable of creating jobs, supporting recycling value chains and providing professional waste-management solutions across Eswatini.
As the country continues to pursue sustainable development, the organisation believes that youth-led environmental action can make a significant contribution to cleaner communities and a stronger green economy.
From picking up litter and planting trees to promoting recycling and environmental education, ECO Manzini Solutions is determined to show that positive change does not always begin with a large budget.
Sometimes, it begins with a group of young people willing to take the first step and inspire others to do the same.
“Our vision is bigger than ECO Manzini Solutions. We want to contribute to an Eswatini where environmental responsibility becomes everyone’s responsibility. We are building a greener future together,” said Msibi.
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(Courtesy Pic)
