Eswatini Deputy Prime Minister Remembers Trusty Gina as a Formidable Political Mind

Deputy Prime Minister Thuli Dladla has remembered the late Trusty Ntombizonke Gina as a formidable political mind and a trailblazer whose contribution to Eswatini's political landscape deserved to be celebrated. Dladla described her as a warrior who fought battles that were not always visible to those around her. Speaking during Gina's memorial service held at Metropolitan Evangelical in Manzini, Dladla paid an emotional tribute to the former Member of Parliament.

Dladla reflected on the political disappointments Gina endured, the resilience with which she navigated public life, and the intellectual companionship she offered those who shared her passion for politics. She said Gina had demonstrated extraordinary courage throughout her life, even when circumstances gave her every reason to surrender. Dladla observed that while Gina was undoubtedly a warrior, her strength should not obscure the personal battles she had fought behind the scenes.

According to Dladla, Gina had endured political disappointments, quietly nursed wounds that many people never knew about, and nevertheless found the courage to keep moving. Dladla also noted that Gina had built a formidable guard around herself that few people could reach emotionally. However, she said even the strongest individuals needed to recognise when it was time to let go and embrace peace.

Dladla suggested that Gina had, at some point, needed to give herself permission to rest, acknowledging that the warrior who had spent much of her life fighting her battles had finally found eternal rest. She fondly remembered Gina's sharp intellect and analytical mind, qualities that made her a particularly stimulating person to engage with. Dladla recalled how Gina would telephone her in the early hours of the morning, often initiating discussions about current affairs.

Beyond their political association, Dladla spoke fondly of Gina's genuine affection and unwavering support, acknowledging the personal bond they had shared beyond the corridors of political power. The tribute offered a glimpse into the life of a woman whose political influence extended beyond the positions she occupied, with her intellect, forthrightness, and determination earning her a place among Eswatini's pioneering female politicians.

Gina was born on August 8, 1956, to the late John Dick Yangayibayeye Numayo and Sehlephi Mayllinah Masuku. Her academic journey began at Sidvokodvo Nazarene Primary School and continued at the Eswatini College of Technology (SCOT), where she obtained a Diploma in Secretarial Studies. Gina entered the formal employment sector in 1987 when she joined Barclays Bank and later pursued her entrepreneurial ambitions.

Gina's son, Zithulele Gina, remembered his mother as a progressive and disruptive thinker who could leave people questioning their perspectives. He described her as a woman whose brilliance challenged conventional thinking, whose sharp intellect commanded respect, and whose humour made her unforgettable. Zithulele also recalled his mother's exceptional generosity, citing an instance where she prepared 24 plates of food for a household of just four.

Key points

• Deputy Prime Minister Thuli Dladla remembers Trusty Gina as a formidable political mind and a trailblazer in Eswatini's politics.
• Gina demonstrated extraordinary courage throughout her life, even in the face of political disappointments and personal struggles.
• Gina's legacy extends beyond her political influence, with her intellect, forthrightness, and determination earning her a place among Eswatini's pioneering female politicians.