By Siphesihle Dlamini
Victor ‘Lusekwane’ Mahlalela has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) for a three-year term.
The much-anticipated announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Thuli Dladla at the DPMO’s Conference Room on a bright Monday morning.
Mahlalela brings with him a wealth of international experience in disaster risk reduction and management, having honed his skills during work assignments in Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo with World Vision.
Deputy Prime Minister Dladla commended Mahlalela’s expertise in project management and resource mobilization, highlighting his unwavering passion for humanitarian work as a driving force behind his dedicated service within the NDMA since its inception in 2015.
Having previously served as the Director of Operations within the NDMA’s executive team, Mahlalela is well-equipped to take on the role of CEO.
ALSO READ: Eswatini host 1st SADC preparatory meeting for WRC-27
He played a vital role in formulating strategic plans and policy documents that have shaped the operational framework of the agency.
“I am confident that he is more than capable of leading the agency to new heights.
The NDMA faces a formidable task of bolstering its disaster risk reduction mandate, and I am certain that with Mahlalela at the helm, we are in good hands,” remarked DPM Dladla.
The NDMA’s mandate encompasses a range of crucial responsibilities, including the prevention, mitigation, and coping strategies for disasters, as well as building resilience within communities.
DPM Dladla emphasized the importance of collective support from the board, management, and staff of the NDMA to ensure the CEO’s success in implementing these critical initiatives.
The appointment of Mahlalela as CEO follows the transition of former CEO Russell Dlamini to the position of Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini.
During this interim period, Mahlalela and Eric Seyama took turns serving in an acting capacity, ensuring the seamless continuity of operations within the agency.
ALSO READ: Widow receives new home two months after DPM’s intervention
Reflecting on recent challenges faced by the nation due to heavy storms, DPM Dladla commended the NDMA staff for their swift response and unwavering dedication to supporting affected communities.
She expressed gratitude for the exemplary diligence displayed by Mahlalela and Seyama during their acting roles, underscoring their professionalism and commitment to serving the nation.
“They carried out their work, very seamlessly, one could not tell that they were undertaking this massive responsibility in an acting capacity,” she said.
