BY NOMTHANDAZO MAYISELA (INTERN)
MBABANE– Young people in Eswatini are being encouraged to take a more active role in protecting the country’s natural environment, following a call by the Eswatini Man and Biosphere Youth Network for increased youth participation in conservation initiatives.
The call was made by Vice Chairperson Phetsile Sibandze, who urged young people to get involved in efforts aimed at promoting sustainable development and environmental protection. She said youth participation is critical at a time when environmental challenges continue to affect communities.
Eswatini is home to diverse natural landscapes, including the Lubombo Mountains and protected areas such as Malolotja Nature Reserve, which play a key role in biodiversity conservation. Protecting these areas, Sibandze said, requires collective responsibility, particularly from the youth.
“We want young people to understand that protecting the environment is not only for organisations or leaders, but it is also their responsibility,” said Sibandze. “When youth take part, they help shape a better and more sustainable future for the country.”
According to the network, its programmes, linked to the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme, aim to equip young people with knowledge and skills in conservation, while also encouraging leadership and community involvement.
Some young people involved in similar initiatives say such platforms create opportunities to learn, connect and contribute to environmental protection efforts. However, others note that more awareness and access to programmes are needed to reach a wider number of youth across the country.
Sibandze further emphasised that meaningful change depends on action at community level, encouraging young people to take practical steps in protecting natural resources.
As discussions on sustainability continue, stakeholders believe that empowering youth could strengthen long-term environmental protection efforts and ensure that Eswatini’s natural heritage is preserved for future generations.
#EswatiniYouth #EnvironmentalProtection #SustainableFuture #YouthLeadership
(Courtesy Pic)
