BY ZINHLE DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE– Stability and continuity took centre stage at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as municipal leaders reaffirmed their commitment to service delivery and national development during the election of leadership for the Ngwenya Town Board.
The ministry announced that councillor Mario Hlophe retained his position as Board Chairperson following a council election conducted in line with the Urban Government Act. Councillor Virginia Phiri was also elected unopposed as Deputy Mayor, reinforcing confidence in the existing leadership structure.
The election process formed part of the local authority governance framework aimed at ensuring accountability, continuity and effective administration within municipalities. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development said the outcome reflected trust in the leadership’s ability to guide the town board and advance development initiatives that benefit residents.
According to the ministry, the Finance Committee was also reconstituted, with councillor Mhlonishwa Mkhabela elected as Chairperson and councillor Gina Ebene elected as Vice Chairperson. Officials said the appointments would strengthen financial oversight and support prudent management of municipal resources.
Government has continued to emphasise the importance of capable local leadership in accelerating service delivery, infrastructure development and community empowerment across the country. Municipal councils remain central to implementing projects that improve the livelihoods of emaSwati through improved sanitation, housing services, road maintenance and local economic opportunities.
The ministry congratulated the elected councillors and encouraged them to continue serving communities with integrity, transparency and dedication. It further called on leaders to work collectively in driving inclusive development and ensuring that residents remain at the centre of municipal programmes.
Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the developments, expressing optimism that the retained leadership will maintain momentum on ongoing projects while strengthening cooperation between council structures and communities.
The re-election of experienced leaders is expected to provide continuity in governance and enhance the implementation of development priorities within Ngwenya. As local authorities continue to play an increasingly important role in national development, the latest council appointments signal renewed determination to build responsive and people-centred municipalities.
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(Courtesy Pic)
