Development

MBABANE – EWADE is set to spend E72 752 716.40 on the resettlement of homesteads under the Mkhondvo-Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Programme (MNWAP).

This follows the publication of the intention to award to notice tender to several local companies.

The total number of homesteads to be relocated is 82 and the scope of the project goes beyond the relocation, but it also include the bush clearing and land preparation of fields for livelihood restoration.

MNWAP is a strategic agricultural development project for the Kingdom of Eswatini.

Its primary goals are to augment food security, alleviate poverty and build resilience against climate change by developing critical water and irrigation infrastructure.

The Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) is accelerating efforts to ensure that every family affected by the construction of the landmark Mpakeni Dam is not left behind.

With an unwavering commitment to inclusive development and dignity for all, EWADE has set its sights on completing the homestead resettlement programme by December 2025, three months ahead of its official March 2026 deadline.

The resettlement process forms a critical part of MNWAP, a transformative E30 billion national investment in water security, agricultural development and rural empowerment.

Since the resettlement process began in January 2021, EWADE has made steady progress. According to Corporate Communications Manager Nokwazi Hlophe, 40 homesteads, comprising 58 households, including five who selected their own resettlement sites, have been successfully relocated into modern, climate-resilient homes under Phase I.

These relocations have taken place in communities under Prince Gasawangwane and Prince Susa’s chieftaincies, including Makhava, Mngayi, Mphelamandla, Lulakeni, Mbava, KaLiba, Sitilo and Nsingizini.

“This is not just a resettlement project it’s a restoration of dignity, stability and future prosperity,” Hlophe stated. “We are not replacing homes. We are building sustainable communities that reflect the values, hopes and aspirations of our people.”

Each newly constructed home comes equipped with clean water tanks, electricity, ventilated improved pit (VIP) toilets and energy-efficient stoves, ensuring access to basic services while promoting sustainable living. In contrast to earlier relocation efforts that relied heavily on owner builders, EWADE has now introduced a formal tendering system to improve quality assurance, accelerate timelines and promote local contractor engagement.

Full article available in our publication.

The scope of the project goes beyond the relocation, it also includes bush clearing and land preparation of fields for livelihood restoration. (Pic: Courtesy)

EWADE CEO Dr Samson Sithole. (Pic: File)