By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – The Eswatini Sugar Association (ESA) has donated E400 000 to the Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society (BERCS) to aid victims of recent heavy rains that have affected hundreds of households.
The donation was made on February 4, 2025, during a brief ceremony at the Red Cross Headquarters in Mbabane. The funds will be used to provide essential relief, including tents, roofing materials, sleeping mats, and food parcels, benefiting approximately 600 households impacted by the storms.
Commitment to Community Support
Speaking at the event, ESA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Banele Nyamane emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting disaster-stricken communities. He highlighted that the donation will primarily go towards temporary shelters and rebuilding efforts for those whose homes were severely damaged.
“The money will be used to purchase tents for families in need and provide roofing materials for homes that suffered extensive damage. Additionally, the Red Cross will secure food and other essential supplies to assist those affected,” said Nyamane.
He acknowledged that while the donation may not cover all needs, it is a step towards alleviating the hardships faced by many Emaswati. Nyamane also urged other corporate entities to step forward and contribute to relief efforts.
Red Cross Expresses Gratitude
In response, BERCS President Bongani Masuku expressed gratitude for ESA’s continued support, noting the long-standing partnership between the two organizations. He highlighted that ESA had previously donated over E1 million to Red Cross to support housing reconstruction projects.
“ESA has been a crucial partner in our humanitarian initiatives. This donation will allow us to provide immediate relief to affected families, ensuring they have a safe place to stay as they recover,” Masuku stated.
(Pics: EBIS News)
