By Thokozani Mazibuko
Over 15 homes in the Mangwaneni Constituency of Manzini have been severely damaged due to persistently heavy rains that have wreaked havoc in the region.
The affected structures, primarily made of mud and sticks, have left numerous residents homeless, prompting urgent calls for support from government authorities.
Ward Councilor Wandile Mazibuko, speaking to the media on the situation, voiced the distress faced by many families in the area.
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“Over 15 stick and mud houses are down because of heavy rains. This area has over 500 school-going children who have been affected due to the heavy rains as they have no shelter,” said Mazibuko.
The Councilor has taken personal action by accommodating several homeless residents in his own home, highlighting the dire conditions faced by those displaced by the inclement weather.
The urgency of the situation has compelled Councilor Mazibuko to implore the Eswatini Government to expedite support and relief efforts for the affected families.
Residents of Mangwaneni have been left in a precarious position, with many unable to rebuild their homes due to restrictions on constructing concrete or permanent structures.
“We are appealing to the Eswatini Government to speedily resolve the matter engulfing the area of Mangwaneni,” Mazibuko added, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention and assistance.
The heavy rains have not only destroyed homes but have also disrupted the education of local children. With school resuming in the coming weeks, the loss of shelter poses a significant barrier to their learning and development.
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Local authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage and are expected to launch a community appeal for donations and resources to help those affected.
Community leaders, residents, and humanitarian organizations are coming together in solidarity, hoping to mitigate the impacts of the disaster and support vulnerable families in their time of need.
It should be noted that as the situation develops, the hope remains that the government will respond swiftly to the urgent appeals, restoring hope and safety to the affected families in Mangwaneni.
