By Mbono Mdluli
BIG BEND – The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) has stepped in to assist residents of the Nkwene Constituency who were severely impacted by recent heavy rains.
A total of 600 food parcels, comprising 200 bags of rice, 200 containers of cooking oil, and 200 portions of beans, were delivered to the affected areas.
The intervention focused on chiefdoms such as Buseleni and Hlobani, which have been rendered inaccessible due to the collapse of the Mkhondvo Bridge. In response, the military utilized a helicopter to ensure the delivery of essential supplies.
Acting Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla shared this update today, January 10, 2025, after assessing the aftermath of the heavy rains in various constituencies within the Lubombo Region. She previously conducted a similar visit to the Shiselweni Region, where she observed significant damage to infrastructure, including roads and homes.
During her visits, Dladla was accompanied by officials from her office and the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA). She toured affected areas such as Nhlangano (Ka Mjuda), Zombodze Emuva, Shiselweni I, Sigwe, and Ngudzeni. While addressing the media, Dladla emphasized that government assistance would be rolled out gradually, assuring residents of continued support.
One notable incident involved a pregnant woman in labor who required emergency airlifting to a nearby healthcare facility. Dladla also announced plans by Microprojects to construct a temporary bridge in the area, ensuring residents can access vital services. She urged communities not to exploit the aid efforts, cautioning against feigning illnesses to gain transportation benefits.
The Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, who is also the Member of Parliament for Nkwene, expressed gratitude to the government and the UEDF. He highlighted the critical need for intervention after floods from the Mkhondvo River destroyed most local bridges.
This collaborative effort underscores the government’s commitment to supporting disaster-stricken communities and restoring essential services in affected regions.
