Mahlalini programme worth millions handed to government

**NHLANGANO- World Vision Eswatini will officially hand over its over million Mahlalini projects and operational structures to the Eswatini Government today, concluding 18 years of service. **

The formal transition is currently taking place on Wednesday at the Mahlalini Area Programme Close-Out and Handover Event at the Mahlalini Area Programme Office in the Shiselweni II Inkhundla. The Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development is officiating at the ceremony as Guest of Honour.

World Vision first commenced its development work in Mahlalini in 2008. Over the course of 18 years, the organisation invested into the community. These investments have directly transformed the lives of over 26 000 residents and more than 5 000 children across key sectors including Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), healthcare, child protection and sustainable livelihoods.

Addressing the gathered crowd, local leadership recalled the profound impact of the interventions since 2008. Speakers noted that prior to the organisation’s arrival, the area faced significant hardship, but the subsequent development built essential infrastructure, established reliable access to clean water, enhanced local healthcare services, and restored basic human dignity to thousands of households.

During the formal proceedings, a local constituency leader expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the community, thanking the organisation for its steadfast support over the years and acknowledging the immense collaboration that sustained the region. Addressing local concerns regarding the departure, the official reassured residents that the constituency administration would step in to assist members of the public using the resources available.

Minister for Tinkhundla Administration and Development Sikhumbuzo Dlamini officially receiving a landmark E175.6 million Shiselweni 11 worth projects under Mahlalini AP including a structure where World Vision was operating on from World Vision National Director Amos Zaindi as the 16-year programme concludes in the Inkhundla.

A senior official representing the Regional Administrator highlighted the widespread benefits felt throughout the Shiselweni region, emphasizing that the physical structures being handed over will continue to play a pivotal role in public administration and service delivery. The regional representative formally commended the organisation for its vital role in assisting the people of Eswatini.

A former beneficiary speaking on behalf of sponsored children shared a moving account of personal transformation, explaining that sponsorship began at ten years old and continued through to the completion of schooling. The speaker noted that while saying farewell is painful, the community remains deeply grateful for the life-changing support, which included gaining qualifications as an electrician with two certificates and receiving essential practical toolkits to start work.

The day’s presentations conclude with pupils from Sokhonjiwe High School rendering a poetic performance that captures the history of the partnership. In their verse, the students recount how early hardships were overcome through investment in schools, clean water, and child welfare, concluding with an expression of gratitude as the government assumes ownership of the facilities to build upon the progress made since 2008.

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