Newly elected mayors from local government authorities across Eswatini have been urged to strengthen their leadership and management skills to enable them to effectively serve their communities and fulfil their mandates.
The call was made by Minister for Housing and Urban Development Apollo Maphalala during a meeting with mayors held at Matsapa Town Council.
The meeting brought together mayors from various municipalities following their election into office last month. 
Maphalala officially welcomed the mayors and congratulated them on their election, describing their new roles as both an honour and a significant responsibility.
He emphasised the importance of good leadership in local government, noting that mayors play a crucial role in driving development and ensuring efficient service delivery within their respective jurisdictions.
He encouraged the mayors to continuously improve their leadership and management capabilities so that they can discharge their duties with diligence and integrity.
The minister also commended the peaceful conduct of the recent mayoral elections, noting that the process was enhanced by the introduction of new innovations.
He said the successful elections demonstrated the country’s commitment to strengthening local governance and democratic processes.
Maphalala assured the mayors of the ministry’s support as they begin their terms of office.
He urged them to seek guidance whenever they encounter challenges or uncertainties, stressing the importance of consultation and collaboration in addressing issues affecting local authorities.
To strengthen cooperation between the ministry and municipalities, Maphalala proposed that meetings involving the ministry, mayors and town clerks be held at least twice a year.
He said such engagements would provide an opportunity to discuss concerns, share experiences and collectively identify solutions to challenges facing local government authorities.
The minister said maintaining open communication between the ministry and local authorities would contribute to improved governance and more effective service delivery for residents.
Speaking on behalf of the mayors, Matsapa Mayor Councillor Lindiwe Dlamini thanked the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development for organising the meeting and for demonstrating concern for the welfare of mayors.
She welcomed the ministry’s commitment to supporting local authorities and pledged that mayors would work hard to serve their communities and contribute to the development of their respective municipalities.
The meeting marked the first formal engagement between the minister and the newly elected mayors since they assumed office.
