BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – In response to the widespread destruction caused by relentless heavy rains, government has announced a substantial allocation of E54 million to support disaster relief efforts.
This announcement was made by Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini upon his return from official visits to Uganda and Botswana.
The PM expressed his heartfelt sympathy to those affected by the unprecedented rains, which have significantly damaged homes, roads, and bridges.
While the rains were initially welcomed as a relief from dry conditions, their intensity has proved disastrous, displacing families and disrupting infrastructure nationwide.
The allocated funds, according to Dlamini, will be directed toward rebuilding damaged infrastructure, including homes, roads, and bridges. This initiative aims to relieve families who have lost their homes and ensure the swift restoration of essential transportation networks.
Acknowledging the efforts made during his absence, the premier commended Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla for her exceptional leadership in managing the disaster response. He also extended his gratitude to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), local organizations, and individuals who collaborated tirelessly to assist victims. Their collective efforts have ensured that immediate needs are being met.
Looking ahead, Dlamini stressed the importance of proactive disaster preparedness. He revealed that government is advancing its efforts to enhance disaster management capabilities through legislative measures. The Disaster Risk Management Bill, currently under parliamentary review, is poised to provide a comprehensive legal framework for mitigating and responding to natural disasters. Complementary regulations are also being developed to ensure that the legislation is actionable as soon as it is passed into law.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the new legal framework would enable the country to access critical funding more efficiently during calamities. He further urged citizens to prioritize resilience in construction, encouraging the use of building techniques and materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
This disaster serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the nation in the face of climate change. The government’s swift response, combined with legislative advancements, signals a commitment to safeguarding citizens and reducing the impact of future disasters.
