By Tlalane Dlamini
NDLALAMBI – A significant over E600 000 investment in the Ndlalambi Water System, scheduled for completion on April 11, 2025, is set to transform the lives of 700 students at Ndlalambi Primary, marking a pivotal moment for the community. Microprojects Community Development Officer, Mduduzi Mdluli, warmly introduced an 11-member team from FORTIS Construction Inc., hailing from the United States on March 31, 2025. This marked the commencement of a unique collaboration between Engineers in Action (EIA), FORTIS Construction Inc., and the local community, all focused on the development of this vital water infrastructure.
The arrival of the FORTIS Construction Inc. team, who will work alongside Engineers In Action’s own engineers, signifies a historic first for EIA Eswatini. As Patrick Mette, EIA Eswatini WASH Programme Manager, emphasized, this partnership offers an invaluable opportunity for knowledge sharing and mutual learning. Beyond the technical expertise brought by the FORTIS team, it also fosters a rich cultural exchange, allowing the community to connect with professionals from across the globe.
In a gesture of heartfelt welcome, Mduduzi Mdluli encouraged the Ndlalambi parents to bestow Swati names upon the FORTIS team members, a tradition that would deepen the bond between the visitors and the community. This act of cultural inclusion highlighted the spirit of collaboration that lies at the heart of this project.
Clean Water for Ndlalambi: A Lifeline for Learning
The Ndlalambi Water System, EIA’s second water infrastructure project in Eswatini since its 2024 programme launch, is scheduled for completion and inauguration on April 11th, 2025. This project underscores the critical link between clean water and education.
EIA recognizes that access to safe water is fundamental to health, education, and economic development. By providing a sustainable 24,000-liter per day potable water system, EIA is not only mitigating the risks of waterborne diseases but also creating a healthier, more conducive learning environment. This initiative, supported by Microprojects and the Ministry of Education and Training, highlights the power of collaborative efforts in addressing critical infrastructure needs.
A Pioneering Industry Partnership
The involvement of FORTIS Construction Inc. marks the official launch of EIA’s Industry Programme in Eswatini. This groundbreaking initiative allows companies and engineering professionals to contribute their skills and expertise to impactful community development projects.
The Ndlalambi Water System serves as a testament to the programme’s potential. By bringing cutting-edge solutions and hands-on experience to underserved regions, EIA and its industry partners are paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.
The Ndlalambi community eagerly anticipates the completion of the water system, celebrating not just the access to clean water, but also the enduring relationships forged through this unique collaboration. As EIA continues its mission to bring safe, sustainable water solutions to schools across Eswatini, the Ndlalambi project stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of partnership.
