By Mbono Mdluli
MPAKENI – The Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) is intensifying efforts to ensure that every family affected by the Mpakeni Dam construction is fully resettled by December 2025, three months ahead of the original March 2026 deadline.
The resettlement programme is part of the transformative Mkhondvo–Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Programme (MNWAP), a E30 billion national investment in water security, agricultural development, and rural empowerment. The E2.6 billion Mpakeni Dam stands out for its human-centred implementation approach.
Since the resettlement began in January 2021, EWADE has successfully relocated 40 homesteads (comprising 58 households) into modern, climate-resilient homes. Some families even selected their own sites. These relocations cover communities under Prince Gasawangwane and Prince Susa’s chieftaincies, including Makhava, Mngayi, Mphelamandla, Lulakeni, Mbava, KaLiba, Sitilo, and Nsingizini.
“This is not just a resettlement project, it’s a restoration of dignity, stability, and future prosperity,” said Nokwazi Hlophe, EWADE’s Corporate Communications Manager.
Each home is equipped with clean water tanks, electricity, ventilated improved pit toilets, and energy-efficient stoves, promoting sustainability and access to essential services. A formal tendering system has replaced previous owner-led construction to improve quality, accelerate timelines, and involve local contractors.
Progress and Commitments
Phase II is currently underway, with eight additional homesteads under construction. Although initial timelines faced delays due to payment issues and weather disruptions, the completion date has been moved to June 2025. Investment in the resettlement programme has already surpassed E45.5 million, covering construction, fencing, fruit trees, VIP sanitation, and culturally sensitive grave relocations.
Government has allocated E83 million for the 2025/26 fiscal year to ensure no household is left behind, underscoring a strong commitment to social equity.
EWADE, in collaboration with traditional leaders, has identified suitable relocation sites across several chiefdoms, ensuring cultural relevance, service access, and environmental sustainability. Tendering for the final phase is expected to be advertised by April 2025.
Beyond Resettlement: Empowering Livelihoods
EWADE’s approach goes beyond building homes, it focuses on rebuilding livelihoods. Families receive tailored agricultural support, including 300kg of fertiliser and 25kg of maize seed per hectare, enabling them to achieve food security and income generation during the transition.
“Our approach is not temporary relief,” Hlophe said.
“It’s long-term empowerment. We are equipping families with tools to thrive, not just survive.”
Overcoming Challenges with Confidence
MNWAP Project Coordinator Bafana Matsebula acknowledged challenges such as delayed compensation payments and resistance from some households. However, he expressed confidence that with prioritised funding, improved procurement, and strong collaboration with traditional leaders, the project remains on track.
A New Chapter for Communities
As the resettlement programme accelerates, EWADE is setting a gold standard for responsible infrastructure development in Eswatini. The initiative embodies the belief that true development uplifts everyone it touches—through safer homes, stronger communities, and empowered livelihoods.
When the final homestead is handed over, it will not merely close a chapter, it will open new opportunities for families, the region, and the nation’s development journey.
