BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
LUGONGOLOWENI– Tears of joy flowed freely as some of Eswatini’s most vulnerable citizens received the keys to new homes, ending years of hardship, uncertainty and exposure to harsh weather conditions.
For 69-year-old Gogo Ntombi Zulu of Mlindazwe, the handover of a two-roomed house was more than the provision of shelter, it was the assurance that her children and grandchildren would have a secure future even after she is gone.
The houses were officially handed over by Deputy Prime Minister Senator Thulisile Dladla at Mlindazwe and Lonhlupheko communities under Lugongolweni Inkhundla on behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III’s Government.
The beneficiaries praised the King for his continued commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable families and ensuring that no emaSwati are left behind in the country’s development journey.
Standing proudly outside her newly built home, Gogo Ntombi struggled to contain her emotions as she reflected on the years of uncertainty her family had endured.
The elderly woman lives with her five children and grandchildren, all of whom are autistic. Caring for the family has been a daily challenge, made even more difficult by inadequate living conditions.
“I am so grateful to Government and the Deputy Prime Minister for considering me and my family for this beautiful house,” she said.
Her voice trembling with emotion, she added: “I am confident that even if I die, my family will be safe.”
For Gogo Ntombi, the house represents peace of mind, dignity and protection for the family she has devoted her life to caring for.
Another beneficiary, 30-year-old Bheki Mpila, described the day as life-changing.
Bheki lost both his parents and grandparents and has been living with a disability following the amputation of his left leg. Before receiving the house, he lived in a small stick-and-mud structure that offered little protection from the elements.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Bheki remained hopeful that one day his circumstances would improve.
That hope became reality when he received the keys to a sturdy and secure home.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s Office further announced that Bheki will receive life-skills training to help him build sustainable livelihoods and improve his quality of life.
Community members said the intervention demonstrates Government’s commitment not only to providing shelter but also empowering vulnerable citizens to become self-reliant.
For 59-year-old Sehlephi Nkambule of Lonhlupheko, the new house marks the end of years of struggle and discomfort.
Sehlephi had been raising her grandchildren while living in a shack that offered little protection during heavy rains.
Speaking through tears, she vividly recalled the painful routine that followed every storm.
“When it rained, everything inside would get wet. Every morning after a rainy night, we would have to take our belongings outside to dry before continuing with our day,” she said.
The experience left lasting emotional scars, especially on the children who endured sleepless nights and uncomfortable living conditions.
Today, however, the family can finally look forward to sleeping peacefully under a roof that protects them from the weather and provides a safe environment in which to grow and thrive.
Addressing community members during the handover ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Dladla said the housing initiative continues to transform lives and restore dignity to vulnerable citizens across the country.
She thanked His Majesty’s Government for supporting the programme and allocating resources towards the construction of houses for disadvantaged families.
The Deputy Prime Minister explained that the initiative initially received funding of US$100 000, approximately E1.9 million, from PMI Switzerland, which enabled the construction of homes for deserving beneficiaries.
She noted that the programme has since gained additional support from Parliament and the Republic of China (Taiwan), allowing the project to reach more communities.
“I am happy that our Parliament has given a substantive amount as well as the Republic of China (Taiwan),” she said.
“We hope that more families will benefit and own decent houses because this is what His Majesty the King wants for his people.”
Dladla said the housing programme reflects Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of vulnerable groups, including the elderly, people living with disabilities, child-headed households and families facing severe socio-economic challenges.
Community members welcomed the continued expansion of the initiative, saying decent housing is one of the most important foundations for human dignity, health and social stability.
As beneficiaries posed for photographs outside their new homes, smiles replaced years of worry and uncertainty.
For Gogo Ntombi, Bheki and Sehlephi, the houses are more than bricks and mortar. They are symbols of hope, compassion and a brighter future.
The handover once again highlighted the impact of collaborative efforts between Government and development partners in addressing the needs of vulnerable families and ensuring that more emaSwati have access to safe and dignified living conditions.
For the three families, the day marked the beginning of a new chapter, one built on security, dignity and renewed hope for generations to come.
(Courtesy Pics)
