BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Microprojects, in collaboration with Engineers In Action (EIA), is gearing up to construct eight suspended footbridges across Eswatini in 2025.
This initiative aims to improve infrastructure and accessibility in communities, fostering development in under-served areas.
In addition to the footbridge projects, the partnership will deliver two water harvesting systems at Ndlalambi and Herefords Primary Schools.
The announcement was made by EIA Project Manager Anna Jovanovich during a meeting held at Thokoza Conference Centre in Mbabane on January 27, 2025.
The meeting brought together representatives from 10 constituencies, each selected for this year’s projects, to undergo training on their roles and responsibilities during the construction season.
Jovanovich highlighted that these projects are intended to be collaborative efforts between EIA, Microprojects, and the communities they serve.
Targeted constituencies and community contributions
The constituencies set to benefit from the footbridge projects include Maseyisini, Hosea, Gilgal, Mpolonjeni, Maphalaleni, Mayiwane, Timphisini, and Matsanjeni South. The water harvesting systems, designed to improve access to clean water, will be installed at Ndlalambi and Herefords Primary Schools.
Jovanovich stressed the importance of community participation, urging residents to mobilize resources such as stones, sand, and water. At least 40 volunteers will be required daily to ensure the projects are completed within the two-month timeline. Additionally, communities must contribute E10 000 to support project logistics.
“EIA is here to build bridges with the communities, not for them,” Jovanovich stated. She cautioned that failure to meet the requirements could result in the projects being reassigned to one of the 22 other communities that have requested assistance.
International volunteers supporting the projects
The initiative will also involve volunteer students from the United States, who have committed their time and resources to assist with construction. Microprojects Community Development Officer Mduduzi Mdluli emphasized the significance of the volunteers’ efforts, noting that they travel over 16 hours and spend approximately E42 000 on flights to participate in these projects.
“These students are not paid for their work. It would be disappointing for them to arrive and find that community members are not willing to participate in projects that are meant to benefit them,” Mdluli remarked. He also called on communities to ensure the safety of the volunteers throughout their stay.
Promoting sustainable development
The collaboration between Microprojects and EIA aims to provide essential infrastructure while fostering a spirit of cooperation and empowerment within the targeted communities. By actively involving locals, the initiative seeks to ensure long-term sustainability and instil a sense of ownership among residents.
This ambitious project reflects the ongoing commitment of both organizations to improving the quality of life in rural areas of Eswatini. With proper collaboration and dedication, these footbridges and water systems will serve as lasting symbols of community-driven development.
