BY MBONO MDLULI
MAYIWANE– Mayiwane Member of Parliament Sicelo Prince Dlamini, popularly known as Khunga Nkhosi, has assured families in his constituency affected by recent severe storms that government and stakeholders are working towards providing urgent assistance and long-term relief.
The MP made the reassurance on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, during a visit to storm-affected households in Mayiwane Inkhundla, where he assessed the extent of the damage and engaged with families on their immediate needs.
He noted that government processes to coordinate support were still underway, and encouraged residents to remain patient as interventions were being finalised. He added that efforts were being made to ensure that assistance reaches all affected families in a structured and fair manner.
The legislator also confirmed that, alongside the Mayiwane Inkhundla Council and other relevant stakeholders, additional support mechanisms were being explored to supplement government intervention. He stressed that he remained committed to ensuring that affected households are restored to stability.
Damage Leaves Families Struggling After Severe Storm
The storm, which struck towards the end of last year, caused significant damage to several households within the constituency. Affected families reported the destruction of property, including furniture, clothing, and crops, which left many struggling to recover from the impact.
In several cases, homes were left partially or completely unroofed following heavy winds and rainfall, exposing residents to further weather-related risks. The damage has also affected food security in some households, as crops that were ready for harvest were destroyed.
Community members have since been relying on temporary shelter solutions while awaiting assistance for rebuilding and repairs.
Government and Stakeholders Mobilise Support Efforts
During his visit, the MP indicated that coordination between government departments and local structures was ongoing to ensure that relief support is provided efficiently. He emphasised the importance of collaboration between community leadership, government agencies, and other partners in addressing the aftermath of natural disasters.
He further stated that no effort would be spared in ensuring that normal living conditions are restored for affected families. The focus, he said, remains on both immediate relief and longer-term recovery measures.
Local structures within Mayiwane Inkhundla are also expected to assist in identifying the most vulnerable households to ensure targeted support once relief efforts are fully mobilised.
Weather Authorities Warn of Continued Severe Conditions
Meanwhile, the Eswatini Meteorological Services has issued a warning of possible severe thunderstorms and hailstorms expected from midday into the evening in several parts of the country. The weather authority has advised residents to remain alert, as unstable atmospheric conditions may lead to further heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential localised flooding in vulnerable areas.
Communities have been urged to secure loose structures, avoid sheltering under trees during storms, and take precautionary measures to protect property and livestock. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are expected to issue further updates depending on the severity and movement of the weather systems.
Call for Patience and Continued Community Cooperation
Dlamini urged residents to remain calm and cooperative as relief efforts are being coordinated. He emphasised that rebuilding efforts would take time but assured families that they are not being forgotten.
He also called on community members to support one another during the recovery period, highlighting that collective resilience would play a key role in overcoming the impact of the disaster. Efforts are expected to continue in the coming weeks as assessments are finalised and support mechanisms are activated for affected households across Mayiwane Inkhundla.
(Courtesy Pic)
