‘I Will Forever Cherish This Moment with the King’
By Thokozani Mazibuko
A humble moment on the construction site turned into a lifetime memory for 50-year-old Sive Mamba, a plant operator, after he had the rare honour of assisting His Majesty King Mswati III during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Lugaganeni–Luve Road Project this week.
Mamba, who has worked in the construction industry for over two decades, said he would “forever cherish” the moment he guided His Majesty in handling the excavator that symbolically marked the beginning of the multi-million-lilangeni project.
“I could never have imagined a day when I would stand beside the King, showing him how to use a machine I operate every day,” Mamba said, smiling. “It’s a moment I will tell my grandchildren about.”
The groundbreaking ceremony drew government officials, community leaders, and contractors who witnessed His Majesty’s hands-on participation as he manoeuvred the excavator under Mamba’s guidance.
The King commended Mamba for his expertise and calm instruction, remarking that the demonstration reflected the country’s pool of skilled local workers.
The Lugaganeni–Luve Road Project, valued in the region of E400 million, is part of the government’s ongoing effort to improve road infrastructure, ease transportation, and boost rural connectivity.
The road is expected to significantly benefit local communities by facilitating trade, access to services, and regional mobility.
Speaking after the event, other workers expressed pride in their colleague’s recognition by the King.
“Sive has always been a professional and dedicated operator,” one co-worker shared. “To see him get that royal acknowledgment was a proud moment for all of us.”
For Mamba, the day was not just about operating machinery but about being part of a national milestone.
“To have my skills appreciated by the King himself is something I’ll treasure for the rest of my life,” he said.
The Lugaganeni–Luve Road is expected to be completed within the next few years, marking another stride in Eswatini’s infrastructure transformation and, for Mamba, a reminder that dedication at work can lead to truly unforgettable moments.
