BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
LOZITHA – Hope, unity and compassion took centre stage at Lozitha Royal Palace on Wednesday as Inkhosikati Make LaNtenteza officially launched the 2026 Cheshire Homes Fundraising Walk, urging emaSwati to stand together in support of Persons with Disabilities.
The fundraising walk, set for June 14, 2026, at the scenic Malolotja Nature Reserve, is expected to attract hundreds of participants from across the country. Walkers will choose between 7km and 14km routes, with activities beginning at 6:30am.
This year’s event carries special significance as Cheshire Homes of Eswatini celebrates 40 years of transforming lives through rehabilitation and therapy services. For four decades, the organisation has become a beacon of hope for Persons with Disabilities, accident survivors, stroke patients and individuals living with long-term physical conditions.
Speaking during the launch, Inkhosikati Make LaNtenteza described the anniversary as a powerful symbol of endurance, resilience and impact.
“Forty years is a biblical number signifying endurance, maturity and lasting impact,” she said while applauding Cheshire Homes for empowering countless emaSwati to regain independence and dignity.
The institution continues to provide vital services including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, hydrotherapy, assistive device support and independent living training at affordable cost, while working closely with government hospitals to ensure patients receive continued rehabilitative care after treatment.
Her Royal Highness also praised His Majesty’s Government for its continued quarterly support, saying rehabilitation plays a critical role in helping individuals return to productive and meaningful lives.
With demand for services increasing, she appealed to businesses, churches, parastatals and individuals to strengthen both financial and technical support for the organisation.
Representing the Deputy Prime Minister, ICT Minister Senator Savannah Maziya commended Cheshire Homes for its life-changing contribution to the country through rehabilitation and independent living programmes.
Principal Health Administrator Cebile Dawn Dlamini, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Health, highlighted the strong partnership between Cheshire Homes and public health institutions such as Mbabane Government Hospital, Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital and Good Shepherd Hospital.
Director of Cheshire Homes Dumisani Mnisi thanked government, companies and individuals for supporting the organisation throughout its 40-year journey.
Among the corporate partners recognised during the launch was Eswatini Royal Insurance, which donated E30,000 towards the fundraising campaign. Other supporters included Magaya Business Investment, United Holdings Insurance and United Life Assurance.
The launch has set the stage for what organisers hope will be a memorable national turnout at Malolotja, as emaSwati unite to celebrate four decades of restoring dignity, independence and hope.
