by Delisa Thwala and Ncaba Ntshakala
The Municipal Council of Mbabane has presented a clean audited report that reflects a 6% increase in their total income.
This was revealed during the Municipal Council of Mbabane (MCM) Annual General Meeting held at the Mountain View Hotel. This was the first AGM for the newly appointed CEO, Gciniwe Fakudze, who also presented the report to councillors and Mayor Thulani Mkhonto.
The report signalled that in 2022/2023, the total income for MCM was E134 million, and for the 2024 financial year, it was E149 million.
This reflects a 6 per cent increase, which was achieved by the office despite what they described as an inefficient environment due to the lack of a CEO for the better part of the year.
RELATED: A dash of brightness to the Mbabane skyline
When reflecting on the report, Mayor Thulani Mkhonto said their daily work provides value to the residents of Mbabane.
Mkhonto said they are driven by their aspirations for public service and their existence is concisely defined by their vision, mission and values.
“This report not only reflects our dedication to good governance but also serves as a critical link between our council and the citizens we serve.
This year’s report embodies our commitment to accountability and transparency, which are indeed the essential pillars for any public organization,” said the mayor.
Through this report, the council offered a thorough overview of their activities over the past year and demonstrated their conscientious approach to the responsible use of the funds entrusted to them by the public.
“I am especially proud to announce that the audited financial statements included in this report are unqualified.
This is a testament to our diligence, transparency, and integrity in financial management,” he said.
Despite operating in a financially constrained environment, the Council conducted its business both responsibly and productively.
Mkhonto said they have made significant strides in ensuring financial health while pursuing their development goals.
RELATED: New Mbabane CEO Gciniwe Fakudze pledges to collaborate and work with critics
“This year marks a significant milestone as it is the first annual report since we took office. Among our major achievements is the development of the Council’s Five-Year Integrated Development Plan (IDP),” he said.
This plan will serve as their comprehensive blueprint for the city’s development, guiding their operations and initiatives for the next five years.
According to Mkhonto, it represents their commitment to strategic planning and prioritizing sustainable growth.
In the face of numerous challenges, particularly in a rapidly evolving socio-economic landscape, the Council has made commendable progress in advancing the city’s development within a climate of peace and stability.
