BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Esicojeni Foundation Deputy Chairperson Marjorie Balarin has called on corporates and ordinary emaSwati to intensify efforts to uplift vulnerable children as poverty and food insecurity continue to affect many households across the country.
Marjorie Balarin made the remarks during the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Esicojeni Foundation and World Vision Eswatini held at the Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane on May 15, 2026.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed to strengthen collaboration in programmes focused on food security, livelihoods support, youth empowerment and improving the wellbeing of vulnerable children and families, particularly in the Shiselweni Region.
Balarin said many vulnerable children across the country continued to face challenges linked to poverty, hunger and limited opportunities, making it important for all sectors of society to work together in restoring hope to struggling communities.
Her remarks come at a time when rural communities in regions such as Shiselweni and Lubombo continue to experience the effects of drought, unemployment and limited economic opportunities.
Many households in these areas rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture, leaving families vulnerable to climate-related shocks and recurring food insecurity.
Balarin noted that while non-governmental organisations continued to play a meaningful role in supporting communities, greater involvement from the private sector and individuals was needed to expand opportunities for vulnerable children and families.
“We encourage more individuals and corporates to play their part in uplifting the most vulnerable, especially children,” she said.
She further commended organisations that continue supporting community development initiatives through the Foundation, including Standard Bank Eswatini, Stanlib, MTN Eswatini and Letshego.
Speaking during the same event, World Vision Eswatini National Director Amos Zaindi said empowering communities through sustainable food production, skills development and improved nutrition programmes remained important in improving child wellbeing and building resilient households.
Zaindi said sustainable interventions that equip communities with practical skills were critical in helping families become self-reliant and better prepared to withstand economic and climate-related challenges.
Meanwhile, World Vision Eswatini Board Member and Chairperson of the Local Resource Mobilisation Committee Nelisiwe De Sousa expressed appreciation to partners and stakeholders for their continued commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children and families.
She also acknowledged the importance of continued collaboration between development organisations, the corporate sector and government institutions in strengthening community resilience and addressing poverty in Eswatini.
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