World Vision Eswatini and the Ministry of Home Affairs hosted British High Commissioner to Eswatini His Excellency Colin Wells during an official visit to the Malindza Refugee Reception Centre and the Ndzevane Refugee Resettlement Area last week.
The visit took place in the Lubombo region, where the High Commissioner toured Malindza and held engagements with refugees currently housed at the centre. Refugees shared their lived realities, pointing to overcrowding, limited access to employment opportunities and ongoing food insecurity. Despite these difficulties, they spoke positively about the reception they have received in the Kingdom of Eswatini and acknowledged the role played by the Ministry of Home Affairs and partners supporting refugee welfare.
The Refugee Project is implemented by World Vision Eswatini with funding from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. At Malindza, refugees also expressed appreciation for the continued assistance provided through this partnership as they await durable solutions.
The High Commissioner was accompanied by Ms Kathy Wells from the British High Commission. The Ministry of Home Affairs delegation was led by Principal Secretary Nhlanhla Nxumalo alongside Refugee Commissioner Zanele Mlambo. World Vision Eswatini was represented by National Director Amos Zaindi, Programme Development and Quality Assurance Associate Director Humble Nxumalo and other senior staff members.
Following the Malindza visit, the delegation proceeded to the Ndzevane Refugee Resettlement Area. The site forms part of a broader resettlement strategy aimed at easing congestion at Malindza while creating pathways for longer term economic stability for refugees.
At Ndzevane, the team toured a farming project where land ripping and fencing are currently underway. The initiative is designed as an income generating venture that will support both refugees and surrounding host communities. Implementing partners indicated that while progress has been made, further resources are required to fully operationalise the project and support sustainable livelihoods for those involved.
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