DPM hands over new houses to vulnerable elderly in Piggs Peak

Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, has officially handed over four newly constructed houses to vulnerable elderly residents of Piggs Peak Inkhundla, fulfilling a heartfelt vision of His Majesty King Mswati III to ensure that senior citizens live in safe, dignified, and comfortable homes.

This milestone reflects the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for the nation’s elderly population, many of whom have faced severe housing challenges.

One of the beneficiaries, 74-year-old Juana Nkonde Dlamini from Luhlangotsini, shared her story of hardship. Juana lives with her daughter and eight grandchildren in a cramped one-room shelter after their previous home collapsed.

The family’s living conditions were so restricted that at night they had to remove household items just to create enough space to sleep. The new house now provides much-needed relief and comfort for the entire family, offering them a secure and spacious environment to rebuild their lives.

Similarly, at Nginamadolo, 75-year-old Khelina Lukhele experienced a traumatic ordeal when her stick-and-mud house collapsed in 2023 while she was inside with her newborn grandchild. By a stroke of luck, both survived the collapse.

Since then, she had been living in an old, dilapidated structure that lacked windows and doors and had a leaking roof, exposing her and her family to the elements.

The new home marks a significant improvement, providing safety and dignity that she had been deprived of for so long.Another poignant story comes from Khokhiwe Masango, 75, of Nsangwini, who lost her home to a devastating fire three years ago while she was away.

“I cried for over a month after losing my house,” she recounted emotionally. “The fire started when I was not home, and I lost everything. Thank you, Deputy Prime Minister and your team, for building this beautiful house.”

Austin Mlipha, 64, also from Nsangwini, had been living in a tent provided by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) after his stick-and-mud house collapsed.

Today, he received a safe and permanent home, ending a long period of uncertainty and discomfort. In addition to the government’s support,

Member of Parliament Jabulani Mabuza donated money to assist Mpipha, while the Deputy Prime Minister’s office provided food parcels to all four families.

Montigny Company generously contributed beds and wardrobes, ensuring that the new homes are not only safe but also furnished with essential comforts.

Deputy Prime Minister Dladla emphasised that these efforts are part of His Majesty King Mswati III’s dream to guarantee that elderly citizens live in secure and comfortable structures.

She highlighted the importance of respecting and caring for senior citizens, urging young people to cease the practice of chasing elders from their homes. “Our elders deserve respect, care, and a safe place to live,” she stated.