BY MBONGENI NDLELA
LUBOMBO – In a bold step towards regional development, His Majesty King Mswati III on Thursday toured several key projects in the Lubombo Region, officially handing over infrastructure and development initiatives worth over E114 million.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and improving infrastructure across Eswatini’s eastern corridor.
During the tour, the King emphasized the significance of these projects in transforming the livelihoods of residents. He reiterated his vision of ensuring that all regions of Eswatini benefit from sustainable development and economic empowerment. The projects handed over include road networks, agricultural initiatives, community halls, and cooperative enterprises, all geared toward strengthening rural economies and enhancing access to essential services.
A Boost for Agriculture and Rural Enterprises
A major portion of the projects focuses on agricultural development and cooperative enterprises, which are crucial for the economic empowerment of rural communities. The King handed over farming machinery and transport equipment to various cooperatives, enabling them to increase productivity and improve market access.
Among the notable projects are:
• Siyambulela Multipurpose Co-Op: Received a Tractor Loader Backhoe (TLB) worth E1.4 million.
• Mdumezulu Grain & Veg.: Benefited from a tractor, bowser, and farm implements valued at E1.8 million.
• Sitananani Bomake Multipurpose: Received a multipurpose tent, chairs, and pots to support their community activities.
• Sinamandla Co-op: Equipped with a tractor and farm implements worth E857,775.73.
• Khushweni Mvembili Multipurpose Co-Op: Established a cattle feedlot worth E630,829.74.
Additionally, poultry production, goat rearing, and cattle feedlots were launched under cooperatives such as Lamvusi Co-Op and Sicalabeni Farmers Investments (Pty) Ltd. These initiatives align with the government’s broader agenda of food security and rural industrialization.
Infrastructure Development to Improve Accessibility
Beyond agriculture, infrastructure development is a key component of the King’s development agenda. Roads, low-level crossings, and community halls are among the projects aimed at improving accessibility and community engagement in the region.
Key infrastructure projects include:
• Mzimnene-Sikhandzabantfu Low-Level Crossing (E8.3 million) – Enhancing transportation connectivity.
• Mndobandoba 2 Low-Level Crossing (E10 million) – Ensuring safer and more reliable road access.
• Makhewu, Matfuntini, and Mnyangombili Road Projects – Each receiving E3.5 million in funding.
• Malindza, Ntuthwakazi, and Lusabeni Community Halls – Each valued at E4 million, providing essential community gathering spaces.
These investments are expected to significantly enhance mobility, allowing farmers and businesses to transport goods efficiently while also improving access to essential services for residents.
Advancing Water and Livestock Management
Recognizing the importance of sustainable water management and livestock farming, the King also handed over several dip tanks and grazing land projects to support local farmers. Some of the key interventions include:
• Malinda, Mfutaneni, Mhlumeni, and Bhekizwe Dip Tanks – Each valued at E417,820 to help in livestock disease control.
• Fencing of Ekuthuleni Grazing Land – A E551,777 investment aimed at sustainable grazing practices.
These initiatives are expected to improve the quality and marketability of livestock in the region, contributing to the overall growth of the agricultural sector.
A Vision for Prosperity
The King’s intervention in Lubombo Region reflects a clear commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind in Eswatini’s development journey. His Majesty highlighted that these projects are just the beginning, with more investments planned to further uplift rural areas.
“These projects are not just about infrastructure; they are about changing lives. We are building a future where every Liswati can thrive, have access to economic opportunities, and contribute to the national economy,” said His Majesty.
The residents of Lubombo welcomed the King’s efforts with gratitude, expressing optimism that these developments will bring long-term economic stability and growth to the region. As Eswatini continues its path towards economic transformation, initiatives such as these demonstrate the power of strategic investment in community-driven development.
Conclusion
His Majesty King Mswati III’s developmental drive in the Lubombo Region marks a significant step in Eswatini’s rural economic transformation. With investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and community development, these projects will not only create jobs but also enhance the quality of life for thousands of residents. As more projects roll out in the coming years, the Lubombo Region is poised to become a hub of economic activity and sustainable growth, reflecting the King’s vision of a prosperous and self-sufficient Eswatini.
