By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Deputy Prime Minister has hailed recovery efforts for families affected by the devastating storm of December 2023 after a financial boost of US$100,000 (E1.8 million), courtesy of Phillip Morris International.
Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, while leading a delegation from the multinational corporation at Maseyisini Inkhundla, expressed deep appreciation for the donation, emphasizing that the financial contribution had already made a tangible difference in the lives of many vulnerable citizens.
“The funds received have already made a tremendous difference to the affected. With these resources, we have been able to rebuild hope and restore dignity to our citizens,” Dladla stated.
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The storm, which struck on December 6, 2023, left numerous families displaced, many of whom were already in vulnerable conditions, including the elderly, people living with disabilities, and child-headed households.
The loss of shelter in these communities had far-reaching consequences, limiting access to basic services, restricting economic opportunities, and trapping families in a cycle of poverty.
The DPM emphasized the critical role of secure housing in enabling people to rebuild their lives, stating, “We are all aware that lack of suitable shelter restricts access to basic services, stifles economic potential, limits educational opportunities, and in many cases, it is a major barrier to escaping the cycle of poverty.”
With the US$100,000 donation from Phillip Morris International, the government has successfully reconstructed 20 households, offering families a fresh start after the devastation.
Among these, two structures have been designated as Neighborhood Care Points (NCPs), which serve as centres for providing nutritious meals and essential care to over 80 children in need.
The DPM highlighted that these centres are not merely buildings but lifelines for children who rely on them for support and survival.
“The impact of this donation will be felt for years to come, as these homes and NCP centers will continue to serve as a foundation of support for the most vulnerable among us,” she remarked.
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The government expressed the significance of public-private partnerships in responding to social challenges, commending Phillip Morris International for demonstrating the power of corporate social responsibility.
The donation, according to Dladla, is a strong testament to how businesses can play an active role in humanitarian efforts and community rebuilding.
“This support is more than just a donation; it is a symbol of solidarity. It demonstrates the power of corporate social responsibility and the importance of private sector involvement in humanitarian efforts,” she noted.
She further encouraged other corporate entities to step forward and emulate this model of collaboration, as the nation continues to work towards building resilience against future disasters.
She added that Eswatini’s government remains committed to ensuring that all citizens have access to decent housing and a secure environment, particularly in the wake of disasters that leave families vulnerable.
Dladla emphasized that the administration’s goal is to create a country where no citizen is left without shelter or the means to rebuild after a crisis.
She acknowledged that while the journey towards full disaster recovery is still ongoing, partnerships such as the one with Phillip Morris International provide a crucial lifeline for communities in need.
“As we move forward, let this be a reminder that no challenge is insurmountable when we work together.
We look forward to continued collaboration with Phillip Morris International and other partners in building a better future for our communities and a more resilient Eswatini,” she stated.
The DPM concluded her remarks by extending a heartfelt vote of thanks on behalf of His Majesty’s Government and the people of Eswatini,
expressing confidence that the relationship with Phillip Morris International would continue to yield positive results for the country.