BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MANZINI– The Government of Eswatini has been praised for intensifying its efforts in the fight against human trafficking, with calls for continued collaboration to protect the country’s most vulnerable citizens.
This was said by Nompumelelo Lukhele, Head of the Prevention of People Trafficking and Smuggling Secretariat in the Prime Minister’s Office, during the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons event held at The George Hotel this morning.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, senior officials, development partners, and members of civil society, and held under the theme: “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – End the Exploitation.”
Lukhele said the Secretariat was deeply encouraged by government support, particularly the recent recruitment of additional staff and the renovation of an establishment now used to host national dialogues on trafficking issues.
She also welcomed the establishment of the state shelter for victims of trafficking, which she described as “a place of healing, support, and care.” She said this facility was made possible through collaboration with non-governmental organisations, government departments, and international partners.
“We are grateful to the Government of Eswatini for its unwavering support. The establishment of the shelter and additional human resources have strengthened our capacity to respond,” Lukhele said.
She singled out the Ministry of Health’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for ensuring timely medical care for victims, and the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office for coordinating holistic social support through the Department of Social Welfare.
Lukhele further recognised the Task Force on Trafficking in Persons, applauding their coordination of national programmes, as well as the US Embassy for its ongoing technical and financial support in combating trafficking.
Highlighting the Secretariat’s growing outreach, Lukhele noted their recent awareness campaigns under the Kulandza Ingoma Yemhlanga initiative, which reached young maidens in Buhleni (Hhohho) and Nhlangano (Shiselweni).
She said similar programmes would be rolled out to other regions, including Jubukweni Wellness Day, to ensure no community is left behind.
She thanked various ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the MVA Fund, for showing interest in anti-trafficking collaborations, and commended the church for its positive involvement.
“As we move forward, we remain committed to raising awareness, strengthening partnerships, and building a nation that is safe from the horrors of trafficking,” Lukhele said. “Together, we can end exploitation.”
Earlier, Manzini Regional Administrator Chief Prince Gija welcomed the Prime Minister to the event, saying Manzini was the ideal place for such dialogue. He urged citizens to stop human trafficking, warning it was harming the country’s children.
The programme, led by PS Bheki Bhembe, included addresses from Minister Mindebele, the UN Resident Coordinator, and the US Embassy, with cultural performances and youth entertainment adding colour to the awareness campaign.
