Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla has commended Bulembu Ministries Swaziland for its efforts to protect vulnerable children and support their reintegration into biological and extended families, with the institution having submitted requests for the reintegration of 45 children.
Dladla made the remarks during a visit to the children’s home and primary school as part of her nationwide visits to Residential Child Care Facilities (RCCFs) on Tuesday, aimed at assessing their operations and strengthening collaboration between Government and institutions providing alternative care. Accompanied by Pastor Kevin Ward and Director Vernon, the DPM was briefed on the institution’s history and operations. Established in 2006, Bulembu Ministries provides care, protection and support to vulnerable children.
The facility is among the institutions embracing family-based care by facilitating the reunification of children with their biological and extended families, in line with efforts to restore family ties and provide children with supportive home environments. During the visit, Dladla expressed appreciation for the institution’s contribution to the welfare of children who have lost parental care, highlighting the importance of providing more than basic shelter.
“I am deeply moved by what I have seen, a home that offers not just shelter, but love, dignity, education and hope. I wish to express our sincere appreciation to Bulembu Ministries for your unwavering support to children who have lost parental care,” she said. She added that the government valued the strong collaboration between Bulembu Ministries and the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office through the Department of Social Welfare.
The DPM also applauded the organisation for sharing resources that strengthen families and support the restoration of family relationships through its reintegration programme. She further commended Bulembu Ministries for partnering with Government in implementing alternative care programmes, which seek to ensure that children receive appropriate care and support while efforts are made to secure suitable family-based arrangements.
As part of the reintegration initiative, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is constructing two shelters to accommodate children who will be reintegrated with their families. The shelters are intended to support the process of placing children back into family environments. Beyond its child-care services, Bulembu Ministries runs educational and agricultural programmes that contribute to the children’s welfare while equipping them with practical skills.
Its initiatives include dairy farming, bakery operations and honey production, which promote food security and provide learning opportunities for children under its care. The DPM also toured the institution’s primary school, information and communications technology laboratory, cultural centre, tuckshop and disability wing, where she interacted with children and staff members.
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