Matsapha – The Acting Prime Minister (PM) Thulisile Dladla has called for open criticism of the government’s intentions of rolling out Tinkhundla-based local governments.
Delivering her keynote address while opening the three-day Eswatini Local Government Conference at Esibayeni Lodge, Matsapha, on Wednesday, Dladla said she understands that there may be different views on how to unify the local government system intended but that the government was committed to transparency and inclusion at every step.
She also said that the conference seeks to establish the diversities that may exist with a view to foster convergence.
“You are all encouraged to submit your written constructive comments and questions for meaningful engagement and support this journey toward a stronger, unified local government system. Your participation in the conference, whether directly or through your representative will shape the future of our nation,” the Acting PM said.
In attendance are members of the royalty, cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, urban local government councillors, chiefs and dignitaries, Chief Chamuka VI from Zambia; Governor Francis Irungu Kang’ata from Kenya; Professor Kwamena Ahwoi and Dr. Francis Adams from Ghana; as well as Professor Ndangwa Noyoo.
Dladla said that the proposed Tinkhundla-based local government was researched from other countries, including Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia, regarding how their local government systems operate.
The conference ensures that the country’s governance system aligns with the aspirations of all of the people of Eswatini, the Acting PM said, adding that this was one of the accomplishments of Sibaya where Emaswati called for an improved public service delivery.
She also said the conference aims to take stock of the implementation of the provisions of Chapter XIII of our Constitution which calls for a unified, country-wide local government system rooted in the Tinkhundla system. It also gives a chance to new ideas.
Chapter V in section 58 (2) stipulates that it is State’s policy that public affairs be guided by the principle of decentralization and devolution of governmental functions and powers to the people at appropriate levels where people can best manage and direct their own affairs.
This provision is expected to be legally operationised by a proposed Local Government Bill in coming months, Dladla said.
Some ground has been covered with a zero-draft legislation expected to go through extensive consultations with diverse voices including, Bantfwabenkhosi, Chiefs, Regional Administrators, Tinkhundla Councils, youth, the Eswatini Local Government Association, and many others, Dladla said.
“This is not just a legal mandate—it is a promise to strengthen governance and bring services closer to every citizen, from rural communities to urban centres.
“I implore all the stakeholders participating at this conference to use this forum as a platform to enhance our collective understanding of the aspirations of the people we represent. The development of the legislation is about ensuring that every community member, whether in urban or rural areas, is able to have a voice and access to equitable governance and public services,” Dladla said.
The Acting PM said by bringing together local stakeholders and international experts from Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia, the government believes in the African spirit of cooperation and mutual support for community and cooperation in economic activities as a significant role in economic development and promoting self-help.
Dladla said the conference will share lessons from international best practices to inform the legislation drafting and to dialogue on issues of local government.
“By learning from other nations and engaging our own communities, we are building a system that is credible, sustainable, and rooted in the Tinkhundla system’s values of unity and representation,” she said.
The Acting PM also took the time to shine a light on two cabinet ministers, Minister for Tinkhundla Administration and Development S’khumbuzo Dlamini and Minister for Housing and Urban Development Appolo Maphalala who lead this process.
Other ministers highlighted for the collaboration were Ministers of Justice and Constitutional Development Prince Simelane and the Minister of Economic Planning and Development Thambo Gina who formed the Cabinet sub-committee that was put in place in March 2024. Also acknowledged is the Attorney General, Sifiso Mashampu Khumalo. Their job description is to develop the legislation to operationalize Chapter XIII of the Constitution.
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