By Thokozani Mazibuko
His Majesty King Mswati III delivered E15 million worth of projects to 12 co-operatives in the Madlangemphisi, Mhlangatane, and Ndzingeni Constituencies on Tuesday.
The event marked a dedicated effort towards rural development and financial empowerment for the Emaswati, who have been dealing with mounting debts and loans from financial institutions.
During the handover ceremony, King Mswati III personally presented keys to new trucks and tractors to the representatives of the co-operatives, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency and sustainable business practices.
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“Go and prosper and also assist the members of your Constituency,” the King urged, underscoring his commitment to uplift the local economy through community-driven initiatives.
The projects, funded by the Rural Development Fund (RDF), were established in direct response to the financial challenges faced by many Emaswati. “I introduced the RDF after I observed the burdens that debts and loans were placing on our people,” the King explained.
“It is crucial that we empower our citizens, enabling them to create sustainable livelihoods while contributing to the growth of our nation.”
and a TLB to power up production at Madlangemphisi.
In addition to the formal proceedings, the King took time to engage with the youth of Madlangemphisi, who delighted him with traditional dances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Eswatini.
This interaction reinforced the importance of nurturing talent and preserving the cultural fabric of the nation, while also illustrating the sense of community that exists within these constituencies.
The emphasis on co-operatives as vehicles for economic transformation aligns with the national agenda of fostering entrepreneurship and reducing dependency on financial institutions.
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Each co-operative is poised to leverage its new assets to enhance agricultural productivity, improve transportation, and further empower its members, creating a ripple effect of economic growth in the region.
Members of the co-operatives expressed their gratitude for the King’s initiatives. “This support is a game-changer for us,” said one co-operative leader.
“With these resources, we can improve our production capacity and better serve our community.”
It should be noted that as Eswatini continues on its path toward socioeconomic development.
The introduction of the RDF and the recent investments into local co-operatives signal a promising future, driven by unity, resilience, and the spirit of collaboration among its people.
