By Phumelele Gamedze
MBABANE – Eswatini has once again been placed on the global map of hospitality and community spirit after 75 international volunteers described their experience in the country as deeply transformative, following three weeks of service under the Engineers in Action (EIA) Programme in partnership with the Microprojects Programme under the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development.
Speaking during an appreciation and engagement session held at Sibane Hotel, the volunteers from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and other countries shared emotional reflections on their time spent working side by side with emaSwati in rural and peri-urban communities.
Many of the volunteers said their stay went beyond technical service, becoming a cultural and human experience they will carry for life. They highlighted the warmth of emaSwati, the strong sense of community, and the opportunity to directly contribute to development projects that are improving access to basic services and strengthening livelihoods.
In their collective sentiment, one message stood out clearly: “Eswatini has stolen our hearts.”
Representing the Minister of Economic Planning and Development, Principal Secretary Thabsile Mlangweni commended the volunteers for their dedication, noting that their skills and time have added real value to community development efforts across the country. She also emphasized that such partnerships continue to demonstrate how global collaboration can accelerate local impact.
As a gesture of appreciation and cultural exchange, the volunteers were presented with traditional emaSwati lihiya attire, symbolizing welcome, respect, and shared identity.
The event brought together Members of Parliament Hon. Gcina Magagula (Ndzingeni), Hon. Hope Shiba (Nkhaba), and Hon. Raymond Dlamini (Ntfonjeni), alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, including teams from the Microprojects Programme and the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development.
Their presence underscored the importance of cross-sector collaboration in driving sustainable community development and strengthening partnerships that extend beyond borders.
The engagement session concluded on a celebratory note, reinforcing Eswatini’s growing reputation as a welcoming nation where development work is enriched by cultural exchange and genuine human connection, leaving a lasting impression on all who participate.
Information sourced from the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development Facebook page.
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