BY THEMBA ZWANE
EBULEKENI – Government, through the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development under the Microprojects wing and Engineers in Action (EIA) have invested E147 million in the past nine years on community development projects.
This has been disclosed by Minister of Public Service, Mabulala Maseko, during the official unveiling of Mholongweni Youth Suspension Footbridge at Ebulekeni, Zombodze Emuva.
In his remarks, the Maphalaleni Member of Parliament (MP) said the Engineers in Action programme has played a major role in delivering durable infrastructure that benefits communities. Their work has improved public health, created economic opportunities, and reduced risks from unsafe crossings.
“In the past nine years, E42 million has been invested by the Microprojects Programme (40%) and E105 million invested by Engineers in Action (50%),” he said.
The minister said for 2026, the two development partners are scheduled to build eight new footbridges across the country, implement two additional schools water supply systems.
E9.5 million has been allocated for bridge construction by Microprojects, Engineers in Action is to contribute E23.75 million to the bridge programme and nearly E1 million in WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) projects.
“These investments aim to strengthen infrastructure in underserved areas, improve access to safe water, enhance living conditions and ensure long-term community benefits,” he said.
The legislator expressed gratitude to communities, engineers, and partners for their contributions. He said their efforts ensure sustainable projects that will benefit future generations.
He noted that the bridge being inaugurated symbolises what can be achieved through partnership, shared vision, and commitment, with a promise to continue building stronger communities.
“It is with great pride and a deep sense of purpose that I stand before you today as we mark the beginning of a new construction season, one that continues to strengthen safe access and improve the wellbeing of emaSwati across our Kingdom,” he said.
He added that the collaboration between the Microprojects unit and Engineers in Action represents a powerful partnership dedicated to addressing critical national needs.
Together, he said they were ensuring safe and reliable infrastructure that provides communities with clean and reliable water for schools. He said the moment reflected shared commitment to unity, resilience, and sustainable development.
“We are particularly encouraged by the achievements realised through this partnership to date. These accomplishments demonstrate a strong and consistent commitment to community-driven development,” he said.
A total of 36 footbridges have been constructed across more than 30 Tinkhundla and there has been installation of 136 water supply systems.
This have had direct impact on over 1 000 school children through water access initiatives, improved safe access for over 98,000 emaSwati nationwide.
There has been engagement of more than 350 international engineers, students, and technical experts over the past nine years
“These bridges are more than physical structures. They are vital lifelines that enable children to safely attend school, facilitate healthcare access, and promote economic activity for farmers and local communities,” said the minister.
Maseko said they embody dignity, opportunity, and connection.
He said they proudly inaugurate the Mlolongweni Youth Suspension Bridge, the first bridge of the 2026 construction season.
He said the achievement was the result of nearly a decade of trust, knowledge transfer, and capacity building between Engineers in Action and the Microprojects unit.
The minister said the structure stands as a testament to the strength of local expertise and sustained partnership.
#Buildingbridges #Safecrossing #Connectingcommunities #Developmentincommunities #Microprojects #Government #EngineersinAction
