BY EPN REPORTER
MBABANE- The Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development (MTAD) has clarified recent reports on the Regional Development Fund (RDF).
The clarification follows a report carried by the Eswatini Observer under the headline: “MPs Looting RDF, Minister.” The Ministry emphasized that the Honourable Minister for Tinkhundla Administration and Development, Hon. S’khumbuzo Dlamini, never accused Members of Parliament of looting or corruption.
Instead, the Minister’s presentation at a budget capacitation meeting in Siteki focused on the importance of financial planning and management within Tinkhundla structures. He highlighted that effective oversight of RDF allocation is essential to ensure that resources directly benefit Emaswati communities.
The Minister also referred to findings from an RDF impact assessment, which revealed that in some cases, beneficiaries whose economic status has since improved continue to access funds, while poorer and more deserving Emaswati are left behind. His remarks, the Ministry explained, were made in good faith to stress the need for transparent eligibility and allocation processes, not as an accusation against MPs.
“The Ministry regrets the misreporting of the meeting and believes the Minister’s words were taken out of context,” the statement read.
Dlamini reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the RDF fulfills its purpose of uplifting vulnerable emaSwati, improving infrastructure, and advancing inclusive development. The Ministry also commended Members of Parliament for their ongoing efforts to help communities make effective use of the RDF.
This clarification underlines government’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and the shared goal of building stronger communities through the equitable use of development resources.
(Courtesy Pic)
