By Xolani Motsa
MANZINI – Representatives from the European Union (EU) and the Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society (BERCS) re-visited areas severely impacted by hailstorms last year.
Those who were affected were in places such as Timbutini, Ngculwini, Luhlokohla, which are places situation within the Mafutseni Constituency in the Manzini Region. Their goal was to ensure that the aid provided, which is around E1.7 million, reached those in need. The organisations also went and to assess the continuing support required for affected individuals.
The financial aid to the affected residents was provided by the EU and the Red Cross worked on the re-construction of the damaged homes. The EU was represented by outgoing Ambassador Dessislava Choumelova and her officials, while the Red Cross was represented by CEO Danger Nhlabatsi and his team.
While at Timbutini, the teams went to a home of Gogo Selina Ndladla (73), who is one of the affected residents. Ndlandla was grateful for the help given to her and others by the two organisations. She said since December last year, she has been living a frustrating life, following the storm that damaged her house. She said during rainy days, they could not sleep, as rain drops would leak into her house, forcing her and her children to seek ways of protecting themselves from such a situation.
Ndlandla further pleaded for continued assistance, especially to those who have not yet been helped like her. She said some of her neighbours who were affected needed help as a matter of urgency. In response, Nhlabatsi promised to help, but did mention that resources were scarce. However, even if that was the case, they were going to find ways of helping those that were in need.
Ambassador Choumelova also praised the Red Cross for having helped the victims. She went to that place after visiting the Refugee Camp in Malindza (Mpaka), where she also praised Emaswati for accommodating asylum seekers.
It transpired during the visit that over the past three years, the Red Cross has constructed approximately 12 000 households. Currently, they operate one ambulance to assist those affected by storms and emergencies. However, maintaining this service poses challenges, as it requires a team of 14 staff members to work around the clock.
The Red Cross has also established programs aimed at fostering community resilience through skills development, including agriculture. The revenue generated from these initiatives helps families sustain themselves and manage their resources more effectively. In addition to farming efforts, the Red Cross plans to donate storage tanks for grain, which will protect against damage from pests and rodents—a common issue that threatens food supplies. The organisation has urged community members to continue supporting these vital projects, emphasising the importance of local involvement in building a more resilient future.
