By Noncedo Shabangu
MBABANE – On May 17, 2025, the Manzini Lions Club completed two major outreach projects, donating 50 blankets to elderly residents in Zombodze, then visiting the Mpaka Refugee Camp with clothes and more blankets for displaced families.
The club’s efforts that day reflect a broader commitment to humanitarian service that spans the entire year. From health campaigns and disaster relief to youth development and food security, the Manzini Lions tailor their initiatives to meet the needs of communities across Eswatini.
Fighting Hunger and Uplifting Lives
One of the club’s core missions is fighting hunger. Through donations from friends of Lions and the general public, the Manzini Lions Club provides food to four care points across Eswatini. These care points serve as daily lifelines, feeding children from rural and vulnerable communities. “We believe no child should go to bed hungry,” Msibi said. “It’s one of the simplest, yet most powerful ways we can help build a better future.”
Beyond care points, the Lions also support blind individuals who live on the streets of Manzini by regularly providing food packages. Their humanitarian efforts stretch further still. In partnership with the Eswatini Blood Bank, the club has supported blood donation campaigns. They’ve also worked closely with organizations like Autism Eswatini contributing funds toward the development of a one stop center and Special Olympics Eswatini, promoting inclusivity and sports for people living with disabilities.
Health at the Heart of Service
Health awareness and support have become pillars of the Manzini Lions Club’s outreach. In partnership with the Ministry of Health, the club sponsored and participated in the Childhood Cancer Awareness Walks in both 2024 and 2025, held in Fairview, Manzini. They provided branded t-shirts and meals for participants helping raise awareness and promote early detection.
On February 15, 2025, the most recent walk once again drew attention to the urgent need for childhood cancer support in Eswatini. “We are proud to be part of such a vital cause,” said Msibi. “These walks not only raise awareness they also build solidarity.” The club has also been actively tackling diabetes, hosting free screening campaigns at shopping centers around the country. These events give everyday citizens access to life saving health checks in convenient public spaces.
When disaster strikes, the Manzini Lions act swiftly. On April 25, 2025, after a powerful storm damaged homes in Mbutfu, the club donated food and blankets to 20 affected households. “We are always ready to respond when our communities are in distress,” Msibi said.
Investing in Youth and the Environment
The Manzini Lions Club continues to support young people through partnerships like the one with International Youth Fellowship Eswatini, contributing to the completion of their Youth Centre in Manzini in 2024. More collaborative projects are planned. Environmental care is also on the agenda. The club has led tree planting initiatives focused on indigenous species, helping to restore green spaces and promote sustainability.
Looking Ahead
With every act of service whether feeding children, supporting the elderly, or raising health awareness the Manzini Lions Club remains a powerful force for good in Eswatini. “Service is not just something we do; it’s who we are,” Msibi said. And with that spirit, the Lions are ready for even more impact in the years ahead.
