BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – “The future is urban.”
These were the words that formed the central message of the Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Appolo Maphalala, during a symposium on Climate-Resilient Urban Planning and Affordable Housing in Eswatini.
According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the symposium was held at the University of Eswatini’s Sports Emporium and brought together government officials, academics, local authorities, students and development stakeholders to discuss the future of housing and urban development in the Kingdom.
The event was organised by UNIGEPS, a student society under the Department of Geography, Environmental Science and Planning at the University of Eswatini.
Among those in attendance were the Ministry of Education and Training Under Secretary for Schools Management, Lungelo J. Nhlengetfwa, who represented the minister, University of Eswatini Vice Chancellor Professor J.M. Thwala, National Disaster Risk Management Authority Chief Executive Officer Victor Mahlalela, Eswatini Environment Authority Executive Director Isaac Dladla, university lecturers, ministry officials, representatives of local authorities and students from the university and selected high schools.
Representatives from the Municipal Council of Manzini, Matsapha Town Council and Malkerns Town Council were also part of the discussions.
The symposium focused on key issues affecting urban, peri-urban and rural development in Eswatini. Participants examined challenges related to land tenure systems, affordable housing and the growing need for sustainable urban planning as the country’s towns and cities continue to expand.
Speakers stressed the importance of integrated spatial planning and infrastructure development to ensure that future growth is orderly, efficient and capable of meeting the needs of communities.
Environmental sustainability and resilience also featured prominently in the discussions, with participants highlighting the need to prepare urban areas for the effects of climate change while promoting responsible development practices.
The issue of housing received particular attention throughout the symposium. Speakers emphasised the importance of ensuring that more Emaswati have access to affordable housing options that meet acceptable living standards.
In his address, Hon. Maphalala underscored the significance of housing beyond simply providing a roof over people’s heads.
He said housing should be viewed as a matter of dignity and an essential component of human well-being and national development.
The minister also outlined the mandate of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, as well as its priorities under the Strategic Plan 2025-2030. He highlighted several strategic goals aimed at improving housing delivery, strengthening urban planning systems and promoting sustainable development across the country.
According to the ministry, the strategic plan seeks to harness innovative planning approaches to create safer, more resilient and sustainable communities for future generations.
The symposium provided a platform for dialogue between policymakers, experts and young people, with participants sharing ideas on how Eswatini can address urbanisation challenges while ensuring that development remains inclusive, environmentally responsible and beneficial to all citizens.
