World Vision Eswatini has officially handed over its Mahlalini projects and operational structures to the Eswatini Government, marking the end of 18 years of service. The handover ceremony took place at the Mahlalini Area Programme Office in the Shiselweni II Inkhundla, with the Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development as the Guest of Honour. World Vision first commenced its development work in Mahlalini in 2008, investing in key sectors such as Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), healthcare, child protection, and sustainable livelihoods.
The Mahlalini programme has had a profound impact on the community, transforming the lives of over 26,000 residents and more than 5,000 children. Prior to World Vision's arrival, the area faced significant hardship, but the subsequent development built essential infrastructure, established reliable access to clean water, enhanced local healthcare services, and restored basic human dignity to thousands of households. Local leadership recalled the positive changes brought about by the programme, citing improved living conditions and increased access to basic services.
During the handover ceremony, a local constituency leader expressed deep gratitude to World Vision for its steadfast support over the years, acknowledging the immense collaboration that sustained the region. The official reassured residents that the constituency administration would step in to assist members of the public using available resources. A senior official representing the Regional Administrator highlighted the widespread benefits felt throughout the Shiselweni region, emphasizing that the physical structures being handed over will continue to play a pivotal role in public administration and service delivery.
A former beneficiary shared a moving account of personal transformation, explaining that sponsorship began at the age of ten and continued through to the completion of schooling. The speaker noted that while saying farewell is painful, the community remains deeply grateful for the life-changing support, which included gaining qualifications as an electrician with two certificates and receiving essential practical toolkits to start work. The beneficiary's story is a testament to the programme's impact on individual lives.
Pupils from Sokhonjiwe High School rendered a poetic performance that captures the history of the partnership between World Vision and the Mahlalini community. The students recounted how early hardships were overcome through investment in schools, clean water, and child welfare, concluding with an expression of gratitude as the government assumes ownership of the facilities to build upon the progress made since 2008. The performance highlighted the community's appreciation for the programme's achievements.
The handover ceremony marks a significant milestone in the partnership between World Vision Eswatini and the Eswatini Government. The Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development commended World Vision for its vital role in assisting the people of Eswatini, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government and development partners. The ceremony also highlighted the government's commitment to building upon the progress made by the Mahlalini programme.
The Mahlalini programme's legacy will continue to benefit the community, with the physical structures and services established during the programme's 18-year tenure being integrated into the government's service delivery framework. The programme's impact will be sustained through the government's continued investment in key sectors such as WASH, healthcare, and education. The handover ceremony marks a new chapter in the community's development, with the government poised to build upon the progress made by World Vision Eswatini.
Key points
- World Vision Eswatini invested in key sectors such as WASH, healthcare, child protection, and sustainable livelihoods, transforming the lives of over 26,000 residents and more than 5,000 children.
