BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Thulisile Dladla, together with Senior Vice President of Phillip Morris International (PMI), Christos Heparditis, led a high-profile delegation to Mlindazwe in Lugongolweni Inkhundla, where they inspected houses under construction for vulnerable families.
The Initiative, funded by PMI through the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), is part of a housing support project aimed at improving the living conditions of the most disadvantaged households.
This year, PMI contributed US$250 000 (approximately E4.6 million) towards the project, which covers the construction of new homes, fencing, and installation of water tanks.
Among the beneficiaries is Ntombi Zulu, a widow caring for four disabled children and two disabled grandchildren. During the visit, she narrated her daily struggles, explaining how her children, t”ough born healthy, developed autism at different stages of their lives. With limited access to specialized care, they were forced to leave school, but the family has continued to cope with support from kind-hearted neighbors.
Her hope, she told the delegation, lies in the construction of a safe and proper home where her children can live in dignity. Encouragingly, one of the houses earmarked for her family has already reached the roofing stage and is expected to be completed within three weeks.
Another resident set to benefit from the project is Bheki Mphila, a young orphan who lost his left leg to cancer. He currently lives with his aunt in challenging conditions, but his new house is already nearing completion, promising him a more secure future.
Speaking during the site visit, PMI’s Christos Heparditis, joined by representatives Richard Griffiths and Marlice van Vuuren, expressed admiration for the progress achieved so far. “We are deeply encouraged to see how these efforts are transforming lives. Supporting communities in need is at the heart of our commitment,” he said.
Deputy Prime Minister Dladla commended PMI for its generosity and partnership, noting that the project demonstrates the power of collaboration between the private sector, government, and communities. “This initiative restores dignity and brings hope to families who need it most,” she remarked.
The housing support project stands as a beacon of compassion and progress, offering vulnerable households not just shelter, but the promise of a better tomorrow.
(Courtesy Pics)
