BY MBONO MDLULI
LOBAMBA – Members of Parliament have made a united and passionate plea for Government to increase budget allocations for elderly people and persons with disabilities, describing them as among the most vulnerable in society.
The calls were made on March 4 2026 during the ongoing debate on the National Budget Speech in the House of Assembly, presided over by Speaker Jabulani Mabuza. By 7pm, the debate, which had started at 2 30pm, was still under way, with about 95% of MPs having taken to the floor to contribute.
Phondo MP Bonginkhosi Dube raised concern that elderly grants had not been adjusted despite the rising cost of living. He appealed to Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg and the Finance Committee to consider an increase. He also highlighted the struggle faced by pupils transitioning to high school, noting that some had dropped out after failing to raise E2 500 in fees.
Mtfongwaneni MP Nathie ‘Mdockies’ Hlophe, Nkilongo MP Petros Sibandze, Lobamba MP Micheal Masilela and Maseyisini MP Nokuthula Dlamini all echoed the call for improved grants for elderly citizens. They said meaningful budgetary support would demonstrate that the nation values its senior citizens beyond words expressed in the Speech from the Throne.
Somntongo MP Sandile Nxumalo said poverty among elderly people and persons with disabilities required urgent financial attention, while Mafutseni MP Sabelo Mtsetfwa even proposed that MPs consider contributing a percentage of their salaries towards supporting the elderly.
Debate also focused on improving access to education. Several MPs, including Zanele Magagula and Agrippa Magesi Dlamini, called for stronger investment in high school and A Level education to ensure children are not left behind. Concerns were also raised about teachers on long term contracts, with Government urged to accelerate their permanent employment.
Infrastructure development featured prominently. MPs such as Mancoba Sihlongonyane and Sifiso Mabuza requested clear timelines for road rehabilitation projects, while welcoming the E2 billion allocated for roads as a transformative step for national connectivity.
On agriculture, legislators discussed funding to combat foot and mouth disease and strengthen veterinary services, emphasising cooperation in protecting the livestock sector. Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka assured the House that the allocations came at the right time to safeguard the country’s herds.
Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi described the budget as balanced and people centred, noting increased allocations for Microprojects and support for UNESWA tuition. Minister of Public Service Mabulala Maseko welcomed funding aimed at improving access to medicines and confirmed efforts to gradually convert about 3 000 teachers to permanent employment.
Despite varied concerns, the overall tone remained constructive and hopeful, with MPs demonstrating commitment to strengthening service delivery and ensuring that development reaches every emaSwati.
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