By Mbongeni Ndlela
Mbabane – In a powerful show of leadership and community solidarity, Mbabane East Member of Parliament, Welcome Dlamini, today led a section of Msunduza youth in a clean-up campaign that also served as a platform to address the pressing issue of gang-related crimes plaguing the area.
The initiative, held in partnership with Yibutse Green Action, coincided with Lutsango Day, a national holiday celebrating unity and productivity among EmaSwati women.
The clean-up campaign comes at a critical time following a series of violent incidents, including the recent fatal attack on socialite Jomo Nkambule at Gobholo, which has left the community shaken. Concerns over the rising cases of hacking, stabbing, and killings linked to gang activities were discussed at length during the gathering.
MP Dlamini condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for immediate action and a collaborative approach to restore peace and safety in Msunduza.
“We cannot ignore the threat that gang violence poses to our community,” Dlamini said.
“While today’s campaign is about keeping Msunduza clean, it’s also about reclaiming our streets from fear and lawlessness. We must work together, not just to beautify our surroundings but to build a safer community for our children and future generations, ” he said.
The campaign saw residents turning out in impressive numbers, equipped with gloves, rakes, and garbage bags, ready to make a difference. The streets of Msunduza buzzed with activity as community members of all ages worked side-by-side, picking up litter, clearing clogged drainage systems, and beautifying public spaces. The atmosphere was not only one of productivity but also of solidarity against the recent wave of violence.
In addition to environmental clean-up, Dlamini took the opportunity to engage residents on practical solutions to combat gang activities. He called for enhanced community policing, youth empowerment programs, and closer cooperation with law enforcement agencies to restore safety in the area. The MP also announced plans to hold further consultations with community leaders, the police, and relevant stakeholders to develop a comprehensive anti-crime strategy.
Partnership with Mbabane Municipality
The collaboration with Yibutse Green Action further underscored the significance of public and local government partnerships in addressing both environmental and security challenges. Yibutse representatives provided logistical support and waste collection services, ensuring that the collected waste was promptly transported for proper disposal.
Building a sustainable and safe future
The clean-up campaign is part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting sustainable waste management practices and environmental conservation in Mbabane. The effort not only improved the physical environment but also served as a platform for addressing the deeper social issues affecting Msunduza.
Community leaders and residents alike praised the initiative, highlighting how such activities build a sense of unity and shared responsibility. “It’s reassuring to see our MP addressing our concerns directly,” said Thoko Dlamini, a resident of Msunduza. “We need more of these initiatives to reclaim our community from both filth and crime.”
A call for continued action
The success of today’s campaign has sparked calls for regular clean-up activities and community safety forums across other parts of Mbabane. MP Dlamini urged residents to make cleanliness and security a daily practice rather than a once-off event. He also emphasized the need for youth engagement, noting that many of those involved in gang activities are young people lacking opportunities and guidance.
The clean-up campaign not only honored the spirit of Lutsango Day but also laid a foundation for a cleaner, safer, and more united community.
With today’s success, Msunduza township has set a powerful example for other communities to follow, proving that small actions, when multiplied by many, can lead to significant positive change.
