Ministry of Economic Planning and Development

14/05/2026

13/05/2026

[PHOTOS] The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, through the Microprojects Programme in partnership with Engineers in Action, today officially launched the Manzimbongolo Suspended Footbridge Project under the Ndzingeni Inkhundla.

The name “Manzimbongolo” originates from a tragic incident where a donkey drowned in the river. The river has long posed a serious challenge to the community, especially school children who struggle to access school whenever water levels rise.

The suspended footbridge project therefore comes as a life-changing intervention that will improve safe access within the community.

Speaking during the launch, Member of Parliament, Gcina Magagula, applauded Microprojects for continuously supporting the Meleti community, which he described as one of the most struggling communities within the constituency.

He further encouraged community members to work hard and fully support the project to create opportunities for future developments.

The project is scheduled to run from 18 May 2026 to 24 July 2026. Students from various universities in the United States of America are also expected to join the community during the construction phase as part of the collaboration efforts.

Representing Microprojects, Simphiwe Nhlapho congratulated the community on successfully securing the footbridge project among many applications received. He urged the community to maintain unity, respect one another, and warmly welcome the international students who will assist in the construction process. He further highlighted that the Manzimbongolo Footbridge is one of eight footbridges set to be constructed this year.

The launch marks another significant development milestone for the Ndzingeni Inkhundla and reflects Government’s continued commitment to improving the lives of emaSwati through community-driven development initiatives.

COURTESY OF OWETHU MAVUSO, SIYANDZA PHUNGWAYO & MZWAKHE MBULI (MEPD Multi-media Unit)

12/05/2026

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has commenced its meeting for Senior Officials Responsible for Disaster Risk Management at Masvingo, Republic of Zimbabwe.
Eswatini is represented by Principal Secretary Siboniso Nkambule - head of delegation representing the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM), Principal Disaster Officers Samukelisiwe Myeni and Phindile Dlamini, Director SADC Economic Planning Thobile Dlamini and Siboniso Mavuso from National Disaster Risk Management Authority (NDRMA).
The sixth Ordinary Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Disaster Risk Management will be held on 13th May 2026, amongst others, to consider progress on the implementation of the decisions made during the previous Summits of Heads of State and Government, SADC Council of Ministers and Ministers Responsible for Disaster Risk Management.

11/05/2026

[WATCH] Lutsango celebrations at the handover event showing appreciation for the Nkhomiyahlaba suspended footbridge.

SIYANDZA PHUNGWAYO, MZWAKHE MBULI & OLWETHU MBULI (MEPD Multi-media Unit)

11/05/2026

[WATCH] Sibusiso Mbingo, Director of Microprojects Programme attended the handover ceremony of the newly constructed suspended footbridge at Nkhomiyahlaba, where he extended appreciation to the communities of Vusweni and Nsenga, as well as Engineers in Action for their collective commitment and hard work in delivering a structure that will have a lasting impact on the lives of residents.

He emphasized that the successful completion of the bridge was not solely the result of international assistance, but a demonstration of the capabilities and dedication of Emaswati, whose skills and expertise were strengthened through collaboration and knowledge transfer from Engineers in Action.

He further noted that the project stands as a symbol of community empowerment, partnership, and sustainable development that will continue to improve accessibility and safety for generations to come.

COURTESY OF SIYANDZA PHUNGWAYO, MZWAKHE MBULI & OLWETHU MBULI (MEPD Multi-media Unit)

11/05/2026

[PHOTOS] The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, through the Microprojects Programme in partnership with Engineers in Action, officially handed over a brand new suspended footbridge to the communities of Nkhomiyahlaba, benefiting residents of Vusweni and Nsenga.

The handover celebration marked a significant milestone for the two communities, as the new suspended footbridge now provides a safer, stronger and more reliable crossing point for residents, particularly school children who previously had to use the older and less efficient footbridge below.

For many families, this development represents more than just infrastructure, it is a restoration of dignity, safety and improved access to essential services.

For years, community members risked crossing the stream using the old structure, especially during rainy seasons when conditions became dangerous and movement was restricted. The newly constructed footbridge now offers safe daily passage for learners travelling to and from school, community members accessing health services, and residents conducting economic and social activities.

This project demonstrates Government’s continued commitment to improving the lives of emaSwati through inclusive rural development and people-centred infrastructure. It also reflects the power of collaboration between Government, development partners and communities in building sustainable solutions that directly respond to the needs of the people.

The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development and Engineers in Action remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen connectivity, improve safety, and contribute towards national development.

COURTESY OF SIYANDZA PHUNGWAYO, MZWAKHE MBULI & OLWETHU MBULI (MEPD Multi-media Unit)