Collaboration between civil society in helping the less privileged, essential-DPM

By Thokozani Mazibuko

Philani Maswati Charity Organisation in partnership with Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) have joined hands to serve the less privileged by launching a clothing collection campaign otherwise known as the Siphila Nabo National Clothing Collection Campaign.

The Siphila Nabo National Clothing Collection Campaign was officially launched by the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla at the Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society Warehouse in Matsapha on Monday.

Making her remarks during the launch, the DPM, who spoke through the voice of the Principal Secretary (PS) in the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO) Siboniso Nkambule, thanked the partners and sponsors for their collaboration and dedication to this vital course.

“Appreciation also goes to our logistics and production partners, Freightlux and Eswatini Plastic Industries for supporting the collection, transportation and branding efforts,” she said.

The DPM said the Siphila Nabo National Clothing Campaign embodies the spirit of solidarity and compassion that defines the nation.

She pointed out that by collecting and distributing new and gently used clothing, they aim to uplift vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly and those affected by hardships or disasters, promoting dignity and social coercion.

“This campaign also supports environmental sustainability through the use of eco-friendly collection bags and the reuse of clothing contributing to responsible consumption,” she said.

The DPM mentioned that the DPMO still supports the collaboration amongst civil society, humanitarian agencies, corporate partners and communities in driving this initiative.

“Collective action like this campaign aligns with our national priority to reduce poverty, protect vulnerable groups of population and foster inclusive development,” she said.

The DPM encouraged every citizen, institution, and corporate entities to actively participate in the campaign, stating that their contribution and volunteer efforts can significantly improve the lives of many Emaswati.

“Let us embrace this opportunity with generosity and commitment to ensure the campaign’s success throughout the month of September. Together we can make a profound difference by ensuring that no one in the Kingdom of Eswatini is left without adequate clothing, especially as seasons changes.

May the Siphila Nabo National Clothing Collection Campaign be impactful, far-reaching and a beacon of hope for all beneficiaries” the DPM said.

The Chairman of Philani Maswati Charity Organisation, Lutfo Dlamini stated that this campaign was an effort to give every Liswati an opportunity to lend a helping hand to the less privileged.

“We have a tendency of seeking help from international organisation as Emaswati but this campaign for Emaswati to help one another, he said.

She pointed out that those who were going to distribute plastic bags engraved Siphila Nabo National Clothing Collection Campaign, produced by Eswatini Plastic Industries, where Emaswati will drop the clothes.

He said the plastic bags will be distributed across the country four regions where there is Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society offices and Clinics, ADRA, and Philani Maswati offices.

He said once the clothes have been collected, they will then be transported by Freightlux to Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society Warehouse in Matsapha, where they will be washed, ironed and distributed to the needy.

Dlamini mentioned that the Campaign throughout the month of September.

“We anticipate that by the end of September, we would have collected enough clothes,” he said.

Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society, Secretary General (SG) Danger Nhlabatsi said the event marked a moment of solidarity, compassion, and unity of purpose, as the three organisations namely, Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross, ADRA, and Philani Maswati joined hands to serve their communities in times of need.

He stated that this campaign was not only about collecting clothes.

“It is about partnership. It is about demonstrating that when organisations pool their strengths, resources, and networks, they can reach further and touch more lives.

Together, we represent the spirit of collaboration that is essential if we are to respond effectively to the vulnerabilities faced by many families in Eswatini,” Nhlabatsi said.

Nhlabatsi pointed out that clothing was often overlooked when people think of humanitarian response, yet it was one of the most immediate and personal needs for people affected by disasters, emergencies, or poverty.

He said proper clothing restores dignity, protects against certain elements, and gives people the confidence to rebuild their lives.

“By donating clothing, we are not just giving fabric; we are giving warmth, dignity, and hope. We are also bringing a smile to the needy people,” said Nhlabatsi.

He said this campaign calls upon the generosity of every Liswati.

“Each one of us has clothing in good condition that we no longer use. Instead of keeping them in our wardrobes, let us share them with those who need them most, the disaster affected households, the orphaned child, the vulnerable families, the elderly grandmother, or the young man trying to get back on his feet,” he said.

He said as organisations, they commit to handling these donations with transparency and accountability.

He stated that the clothes collected will be sorted, distributed, and monitored to ensure they reach those in genuine need.

“Together, Red Cross, ADRA, and Philani Maswati will ensure that this campaign delivers tangible and meaningful impact,” he said.

Nhlabatsi said on Monday they were planting the seed of compassion, but its fruits will only be realised if they all take part.

He, therefore, called upon households, schools, churches, businesses, and individuals across the Kingdom to support this campaign.

“Let us be reminded that giving is not about abundance, but it is about love and solidarity. I thank our partners ADRA and Philani Maswati for walking this journey with us.

I thank all of you for your presence, and I invite you to join us in making this campaign a success,” Nhlabatsi said.