MBABANE- Mbabane Municipal Council Chief Executive Officer Gciniwe Fakudze has been praised for steering the capital towards a greener and more technologically advanced future.
Mayor Thulani Mkhonto, in his address following his re-election, commended Fakudze’s leadership, crediting her with driving initiatives aimed at transforming Mbabane into both a green city and a smart city.
He highlighted that these efforts are already beginning to take shape, with the municipality focusing on sustainability, environmental management and the integration of technology into urban systems.
“Mbabane is moving towards being a green city and also a smart city under the leadership of the CEO,” said Mkhonto. Among the key priorities outlined by the mayor is land allocation, with a commitment that residents should begin receiving plots by the end of the year.
He said councillors were determined to ensure that communities benefit directly from development initiatives. This, he explained, aligns with His Majesty King Mswati III’s vision, as expressed during the opening of Parliament, that every LiSwati should have access to decent housing.
Mkhonto also pointed to progress in upgrading informal settlements, revealing that four such areas have already been converted into townships.
The long-term goal, he added, is to formalise all informal settlements within the city.In addition to housing, the municipality is placing emphasis on youth empowerment and environmental sustainability.
The council is creating employment opportunities for young people while also supporting recycling initiatives as part of its broader green agenda.On the smart city project, Mkhonto said the council is awaiting further updates from the Ministry of Information Communications and Technology regarding the next phase.
He expressed optimism that the project would enhance service delivery and position Mbabane as a model city within the region.Despite the ambitious plans, the mayor acknowledged that unity among councillors would be crucial in driving the agenda forward.
He urged members of the council to conduct themselves with integrity and to prioritise the interests of residents.
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