BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
SIMUNYE – In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17, which emphasises partnerships as a driver of sustainable development, the Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation (RES) has channelled more than E848 000 into water projects for two communities through proceeds from its annual charity golf tournament.
At Maphiveni, a water project valued at over E391 000 has been officially handed over, benefiting more than 100 homesteads. The project comprises a solar-powered system, two 5 000-litre water tanks and multiple water taps.
Speaking during the handover on April 30,2026 RES Managing Director Nick Jackson said the initiative was aimed at improving livelihoods in water-stressed communities. He noted that residents in Maphiveni previously relied on the Mbuluzi River, where they risked encounters with crocodiles while fetching water.
Jackson highlighted that since 2016, the company has invested about E2.5 million in similar initiatives, benefiting 14 communities and over 4 000 households. He added that the programme is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation, Goal 3 on good health and well-being, and Goal 17, which focuses on strengthening partnerships to achieve sustainable development.
Meanwhile, over 300 homesteads in Nsonta at Dvokolwako are set to benefit from a E457 000 rehabilitated water project. The system, which dates back to 1991, had become non-functional due to lack of maintenance funds.
The project has since been upgraded with solar panels and a water pump that uses sunlight to efficiently supply water, ensuring long-term sustainability with a lifespan of over 25 years.
Of the total amount, E432 000 was raised through the RES Charity Golf Tournament, while the community contributed E25 000, alongside labour and materials, demonstrating strong local ownership of the project.
Both projects were made possible through partnerships involving RES, Galp, Luphohlo Commodities and other stakeholders. Galp contributed E60 000 in 2024 as an anchor sponsor, while Luphohlo Commodities injected E100 000 in 2025.
Speaking on behalf of the Maphiveni community, a committee member expressed gratitude to RES and its partners, noting that the relationship spans several years and has improved sanitation and water access in the area.
Galp Eswatini Managing Director Bruno Marques said their contribution is driven by values of respect and a commitment to improving lives through access to clean water.
Luphohlo Commodities representative Nathi Van Zuydam said the company takes pride in supporting initiatives that bring tangible benefits to communities, adding that access to clean water aligns with national development priorities.
The annual RES Charity Golf Tournament continues to serve as a key platform for mobilising resources towards community development, particularly in improving access to safe and sustainable water supply in rural areas.
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