BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Eswatini has received about (US$200 000) E1.4 million from the African Union Commission to address humanitarian needs.
The amount was donated yesterday (Wednesday, November 13, 2024) at the Deputy Prime Minister’s Offices (DPMO) in Mbabane. According to information from the DPMO, this fund will aid Government in providing food to those impacted by food insecurity.
The cheque was presented by the Head of Mission for the African Union (AU), His Excellency Ambassador George Orina, to the Acting Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, who is the Minister of Tinkhundla and Administration.
Ambassador Orina noted that 20 percent of Eswatini’s population required food assistance from October 2024 to March 2025 due to the effects of El Niño and La Niña earlier in the year.
AU Ambassador Mahlaba Mamba, who was leading the AU Humanitarian delegation, arrived in the country on Monday and engaged with various governmental and humanitarian stakeholders. On Tuesday, the delegation visited several communities affected by food insecurity and storms, interacting with farmers, community leaders, and inspecting rehabilitation projects.
The delegation expressed gratitude to the Government of Eswatini for providing essential support to vulnerable citizens during difficult times. Acting DPM Sikhumbuzo expressed his appreciation for the unwavering support and solidarity the AU has shown to Eswatini.
“Today, we are honoured to receive a generous grant of US$200 000 from the Solidarity Gesture Fund for 2024. This support will directly benefit our communities through the work of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), by providing food support. The funding arrives at a crucial time, as we continue to address the impact of Elnino-induced hazards from the past season and prepare for future challenges,” the Acting DPM said.
Last year, Eswatini received US$150 000 from AU’s Solidarity Gesture Fund.
