Her Majesty Indlovukazi Praised for Her Compassion

By Thokozani Mazibuko

Her Majesty Indlovukazi has been lauded by Manzini residents and market vendors for her enduring compassion and dedication to community upliftment, during the Manzini Municipal Council’s 2024–2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at The George Hotel this week.

The meeting brought together city officials, vendors, and civic stakeholders to assess progress made by the council over the past year and discuss persistent challenges facing Eswatini’s commercial capital.

Among the most emotional moments came when vendors expressed gratitude to the Queen Mother for her support in improving their livelihoods.

They noted that many informal traders who previously sold their goods under harsh street conditions now operate within a proper market facility a development they credited to Her Majesty’s concern for the poor and vulnerable.

“We used to sleep on the pavement waiting for space to sell,” said one vendor representative. “Now we have shelter and dignity because of Her Majesty’s compassion. She has changed our lives.”

Calls for safer, cleaner Manzini

During the meeting, stakeholders engaged with the council in a wide-ranging dialogue on governance, infrastructure, and service delivery.

The council presented its annual performance report and audited financial statements, inviting the public to offer feedback and suggestions.

Several key issues dominated discussions, including road safety near schools, where an increase in child-related traffic incidents has sparked concern among parents.

Stakeholders called for the installation of more pedestrian crossings, warning signs, and traffic officers during school hours.

Crime was another major concern, with residents urging for enhanced police visibility and lighting in high-risk areas. Reports of robberies, break-ins, and drug-related crimes have unsettled several neighbourhoods.

“We cannot talk about development without safety,” said a community member. “Our children and businesses need protection from criminal activity.”

Public health and infrastructure under scrutiny

Participants also pointed to worsening road conditions, potholes, and neglected parks as indicators of infrastructural decline. Some residents said abandoned public spaces had become gathering spots for vandals and illegal dumpers.

Concerns were also raised over the sale of expired or improperly stored food in some retail outlets. Community members urged the council to publicly name and penalize offending businesses to deter health risks.

“Consumers deserve protection,” said one resident. “Those selling expired goods should be exposed, not hidden.”

Golf course turns crime hotspot

One recurring complaint involved the Manzini golf course area, which residents described as a growing hotspot for criminal activities, including robberies and the illegal slaughter of livestock.

The council promised to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to restore safety and accountability in the area.

Progress recognised amid challenges

Despite the grievances, residents commended the council for positive community-oriented initiatives, particularly the Mayor’s Cup, a local football tournament credited with reducing youth idleness and promoting unity.

Participants also called for the construction of a multi-purpose community hall that could host educational workshops, youth activities, and cultural events.

Mayor and council officials pledged to review the proposals and intensify cooperation between local government and citizens.

A spirit of dialogue and accountability

The AGM showed a renewed commitment to transparency, with the Municipal Council emphasizing its goal to maintain open channels of communication with residents.

Council officials said feedback from the public would guide future planning, budgeting, and urban development priorities aimed at making Manzini a safer, cleaner, and more inclusive city.

“Our vision is a responsive city that listens,” said a council spokesperson. “The AGM is not just a formality it is where residents shape the future of Manzini with their voices.”

As the meeting concluded, one sentiment echoed among attendees: Her Majesty Indlovukazi’s compassion continues to inspire civic responsibility and unity, reminding Eswatini’s citizens that nation-building begins with love for one another.