By Ncaba Ntshakala
In a bid to usher in a new era of governance marked by transparency, accountability, and direct engagement with the people, Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, has taken charge of critical discussions with the Ministry’s portfolio
committee members from the House of Assembly.
The Minister articulated a vision of bringing Parliament closer to the people, emphasizing the need for direct contact between legislators and emaSwati, the citizens of Eswatini.
Speaking passionately about the nation’s expectations for tangible progress and socio-economic development, Minister Dlamini highlighted the importance of promoting initiatives that would positively impact the lives of emaSwati.
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Central to Minister Sikhumbuzo’s agenda is the imperative need for legislation to govern the Ministry’s work, currently mandated by a Legal Notice. With a Cabinet Sub-Committee already at work and the technical support of an Inter-Ministerial Steering Committee, the Minister expressed determination to complete drafting and consultations by the end of 2024.
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This legislative effort aligns with the constitutional directive to establish a single country-wide system of local government based on the Tinkhundla System, recognized as a crucial engine of development in Eswatini.
Moreover, Minister Dlamini addressed the ongoing efforts to strengthen administrative arrangements supporting the Regional Development Fund (RDF).
Responding to calls for easier access to the RDF, the Ministry has commissioned an Impact Assessment for RDF Projects implemented since 2015
. The results of this assessment will inform the review of RDF regulations, demonstrating the Ministry’s commitment to the effective utilization of funds for community development.
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Additionally, the Minister emphasized the need for the finalization of the review of Community Poverty Reduction Fund (CPRF) regulations to further support poverty alleviation efforts.
In an impassioned plea to public officers, the Minster expressed the importance of responsiveness and accountability to the communities they serve.
He championed the Social Accountability Initiative as a platform to facilitate meaningful engagement between elected officials and emaSwati, pushing collaboration in community development programs.