MPAKA – A vibrant mix of cultural dances, singing, a helicopter display, health services and community interaction set the tone for the Mini Army Day outreach held in Mpaka.
This is part of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEGDF) campaigns in readiness for the main Army Day to be held on April 10. Yesterday, the event was held in the Lubombo Region. The main day will be held the army’s headquarters, Nokwane.
Residents turned out in large numbers to witness the colourful event, which blended entertainment with education and public engagement. From traditional performances to a dramatic play, the programme kept the crowd engaged, while an army helicopter parked at the venue drew particular attention, with many eager to learn more about aviation.
Though some of the public were eager to fly into the helicopter, the army advised that this could not be allowed as one required to be insured.
Leading yesterday’s operation, General Thembinkosi Mngometulu delivered a strong message aimed at reshaping public perceptions about the military.
“Our lives are yours. We have given up our lives for you. There is no other country we have other than this,” he said.
He emphasised that the army had been deployed across regions under the directive of the Commander-in-Chief, who is the King to strengthen relations with civilians and encourage citizens to view soldiers as approachable.
“Do not be afraid of us. Run to us, not from us. If you are in trouble, come to us or the police,” he urged.
Mngometulu said the initiative was also about building lasting friendships between the army and the public, while encouraging a culture of continuous learning, particularly among young people.
“Even in the army, learning continues. Technology demands that we keep improving ourselves. To the youth, education is key,” he said.
He added that the army comprises highly skilled professionals, including doctors, engineers and pilots, and urged emaSwati to pursue education regardless of the career path they choose.
The event featured a performance by army musician Mancoba Mdluli, who entertained the crowd with two songs, while other performances included cultural dances that celebrated emaSwati heritage.
Adding to the excitement, members of the public participated in a question-and-answer session, where correct responses earned them prizes such as T-shirts and flasks.
Three lucky winners – Delisile Dlamini, as well as a couple, Bongani Tfwala and Dina Vilakati – walked away with the grand prize of a fully sponsored VIP experience to the upcoming Army Day celebrations at Nokwane. The package includes transport from Mpaka, accommodation, meals and a rare opportunity to dine among royalty.
… Distribute food parcels from Their Majesties
MPAKA – In a further show of goodwill, Mngometulu announced that residents would receive food parcels consisting of beans and rice, courtesy of Their Majesties, a gesture that was warmly received by the community.
Dvokodweni Inkhundla Member of Parliament (MP) Sifiso Shabalala commended both the army and Their Majesties for the initiative, noting that such engagements were vital in bridging the gap between security forces and civilians.
He said there had been a long-standing perception that soldiers were not easily accessible to the public.
“It is encouraging to see the army coming to the people. This helps build relationships and trust,” he said.
Shabalala further called on other security agencies, including the police, correctional services and fire and emergency services, to adopt similar outreach programmes to strengthen their ties with communities.
He also noted that the region had previously hosted a similar engagement through a church initiative, expressing hope that such activities would become more frequent.
Meanwhile, army pilot Sibonginkosi Tsela drew interest from curious residents as he explained how helicopters operate and outlined training opportunities available locally, including in Matsapha. He highlighted that individuals could pursue further studies and obtain licences to operate specific aircraft.
Public Affairs Officer Major (PAO) Sandile Gwebu reinforced the message that the army accommodates a wide range of professions.
“In the army, we employ people from different fields. You can be a doctor, a pilot or even a lawyer and still serve as a soldier,” he said.
He added that while the army recruits skilled professionals, it also provides opportunities for those who may not have accessed tertiary education, emphasising that learning continues within the force.
Traditional leadership also welcomed the initiative, with representatives expressing gratitude on behalf of the local chiefdom for the army’s presence and engagement with the community.
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