By Mbono Mdluli
LOBAMBA – A promising legislative proposal under discussion in the Senate aims to ensure no pregnant woman is left without support, reinforcing Eswatini’s commitment to maternal welfare and parental responsibility.
The proposed measure, which forms part of the annual performance review of the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO), calls for men suspected of fathering a child to contribute to the mother’s wellbeing during pregnancy—unless they are cleared by a DNA test.
Senator Chief Prince Mphatfwa, who introduced the discussion, emphasized the importance of shared responsibility. “The intention is to protect both the mother and the unborn child. It ensures women receive the necessary support, while also giving men a fair opportunity to confirm paternity through scientific means,” he stated.
He shared real-life examples to illustrate the need for the proposal. “There have been cases where women approach multiple social welfare offices across different towns, seeking support from various men. This situation often arises when a woman has been involved with more than one partner, and it becomes difficult to determine the father without DNA evidence.”
Senator Tony Sibandze also weighed in, acknowledging the importance of the idea while cautioning against potential misuse. “It’s a noble initiative, but we must be careful not to create challenges for innocent individuals. The law must be fair, balanced, and just,” he noted.
The ongoing discussions signal a positive step toward strengthening women’s rights and ensuring parental accountability. As debates continue, senators are working to refine the proposal to maintain fairness for all parties involved.
This initiative forms part of the broader government effort to safeguard vulnerable groups and promote responsible parenting in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
