By Tlalane Dlamini
BUHLENI – Engineers in Action (EIA), a United States-based engineering non-governmental organisation, has commenced construction of a potable water system at Ndlalambi Primary School. This project represents a significant advancement in EIA’s commitment to enhancing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure within the Kingdom. The initiative will provide a sustainable supply of clean, safe drinking water to 564 students, 21 school staff members, and eight teacher housing units.
EIA, which initiated operations in Eswatini in 2017 has a longstanding partnership with Microprojects, previously focused on the construction of pedestrian footbridges in rural communities. For the Ndlalambi Primary project, EIA in partnership with Microprojects, a key in-country collaborator, and the Ministry of Education and Training, which has contributed a functional borehole as the project’s foundation. EIA will install the necessary disinfection and pumping systems to ensure a reliable and safe water supply for the school community.
The project, which begins today, February 19, is scheduled for completion within eight weeks, with an inauguration planned for April 11, 2025. EIA has committed E450,000 to this initiative, the first of two water projects planned for Eswatini in 2025, with the second slated for Herefords later in the year.
The project is further enhanced by the participation of an industry team from Fortis, a global construction and infrastructure firm specialising in sustainable water management, energy solutions, and resilient infrastructure. Fortis, with its extensive experience in addressing water scarcity and improving sanitation, will deploy eleven professional staff members to provide technical support, share best practices, and collaborate with local stakeholders. This partnership underscores Fortis’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to supporting impactful initiatives.
WASH Project Manager at Engineers in Action Patrick Mettee said that project is transformative for Ndlalambi Primary, the provision of safe drinking water will mitigate the incidence of illness and absenteeism among students and staff.
“Through strategic partnerships with the Ministry of Education and Training, Microprojects, and Fortis, EIA is facilitating a sustainable solution to ensure access to potable water for the school community”, Mettee said.
Beyond technical efforts, the project has also been a community-driven initiative. Mduduzi Mdluli, Microprojects Community Development Officer, emphasised the strong local support.
“Parents, teachers, and community members have come together in an incredible way to help make this project a reality. Their dedication and willingness to contribute their time and resources show how vital this clean water system is to the school but to the entire community too.
With construction underway, Ndlalambi Primary School is on the path to a healthier and more sustainable future, proving that collaboration between engineering expertise and community commitment can lead to lasting change”, Mdluli said.
Representative from the Ministry of Education and Training Nsizwa Dlamini, speaking on behalf of the Regional Education Officer (REO), expressed profound gratitude and satisfaction with the project. The Ministry emphasised the critical role of water as a fundamental resource for school-going children, underscoring its essential contribution to life and educational development.
Ndlalambi Primary School Headteacher Mandla Mdluli expressed profound gratitude to both EIA and Microprojects. He emphasised that it has always been his dream to retire with the school having a reliable water supply, and he is deeply thankful that this vision is now becoming a reality.
Umphakatsi representative Joel Nhleko conveyed his sincere appreciation to both EIA and Microprojects for their commitment to the community. He further emphasised the importance of community and school collaboration in safeguarding and respecting the newly established water infrastructure, ensuring its long-term functionality and benefit for all.
