The Municipal Council of Mbabane, in partnership with the South African High Commission, commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day at the Sidvwashini Social Centre.
The event was held under the theme: “It’s Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity.”
The South African High Commission was led by High Commissioner H.E. Mmaikeletsi Dube. 
Representing the Municipal Council were the Mayor of Mbabane, Thulani Mkhonto and the Chief Executive Officer, Gciniwe Fakudze.
In line with the global observance of Nelson Mandela International Day, the Municipal Council and the South African High Commission dedicated 67 minutes to community service.
Activities at the Sidvwashini Social Centre included the planting of seedlings to promote environmental sustainability and the serving of nutritious meals to children and elders.
The Sidwashini Social Centre provides two daily meals to approximately 85 children.
Officials said the centre plays an important role in supporting vulnerable families in the area.
Mayor Thulani Mkhonto and CEO Gciniwe Fakudze addressed participants during the event.
Both emphasised the importance of community service and called for collective action to address poverty and inequality in the city.
The Mayor said the commemoration aligns with the City Council’s commitment to support community-based initiatives that improve the lives of residents.
He noted that addressing social challenges requires partnerships between government, diplomatic missions and civil society.
The Municipal CEO, Gciniwe Fakudze, said the Council will continue to work with stakeholders to support institutions that provide care to children and the elderly.
She added that service delivery must extend beyond government facilities to community centres.
High Commissioner Mmaikeletsi Dube delivered remarks on behalf of the South African High Commission.
She said Nelson Mandela International Day is a reminder of the responsibility to serve others and to work towards a more equal society.
She stated that the partnership with the Municipal Council of Mbabane reflects the strong relations between South Africa and Eswatini and a shared commitment to development.
The High Commissioner encouraged continued support for community centres and called on institutions to contribute time and resources to initiatives that address poverty.
The 2026 theme, “It’s Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity,” places emphasis on practical action to reduce social and economic disparities.
Officials said the choice of Sidwashini Social Centre was informed by the centre’s work in providing meals and care to children.
The meal programme and the environment project were identified as areas where immediate support could be provided.
During the 67 minutes, participants served food to beneficiaries and planted seedlings within the centre’s premises.
Staff at the Sidwashini Social Centre acknowledged the support from the Municipal Council and the South African High Commission.
They said contributions of this nature assist the centre to sustain its feeding programme.
Beneficiaries at the centre received meals during the visit. Officials said the interaction also provided an opportunity to assess needs at the community level.
Nelson Mandela International Day is observed annually on 18 July.
The day calls on individuals and organisations to dedicate 67 minutes to public service, representing the 67 years Mandela spent in public service.
The United Nations established the day to promote Mandela’s values of reconciliation, human rights and community service.
The Municipality of Mbabane said the 2026 observance focused on food security, environmental sustainability and support to vulnerable groups.
The Municipal Council said it will continue to collaborate with diplomatic missions and other partners on community projects.
The Council indicated that future engagements will target centres providing social services within the city.
CEO Fakudze said the Council is mapping community needs to ensure that interventions are targeted and sustainable.
The Mayor said the City will also prioritise programmes that create opportunities for youth and support households affected by poverty.
