Manzini – Government officials, humanitarian agencies, and refugees gathered at The George Hotel in Manzini on Friday to mark World Refugee Day, with renewed calls for stronger protection and integration of refugees in Eswatini.
The commemoration brought together the Ministry of Home Affairs, World Vision Eswatini, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), development partners, and asylum seekers from the Malindza Refugee Reception Centre.
Home Affairs Minister HRH Princess Lindiwe, who delivered the keynote address, said the government remains committed to ensuring refugees live in a safe and dignified environment. She acknowledged the ongoing support from UNHCR and World Vision, adding that host communities must also be part of long-term refugee inclusion plans.
Speaking on behalf of World Vision Eswatini’s National Director, Operations Director Sakhile Dlamini addressed the growing pressures facing displaced families. She noted that global instability continues to drive people — including children — to seek safety in countries like Eswatini.
At Malindza, over 840 asylum seekers are currently being housed, with more than 400 of them having arrived in December 2024. Many remain at the centre due to trauma and ongoing uncertainty. Although basic services such as food, water, shelter, and healthcare are being provided, the strain on infrastructure is evident.
Dlamini raised concerns about the mental health of residents, saying trauma and stress have led to behavioural issues and rising tensions within the centre. She also reported an increase in chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory conditions.
To address the overcrowding, World Vision and the government have launched the Ndzevane Project, a relocation plan aimed at resettling willing refugee families on a cleared 150-hectare site. The project includes 20 households from the local host community and will focus on farming sugarcane, maize, bananas, and beans to promote self-reliance.
Commissioner for Refugees Zanele Mlambo reaffirmed Eswatini’s commitment to international obligations and urged continued access to services for refugees. She thanked faith-based groups, the private sector, and World Vision for their hands-on support.
UNHCR’s Representative in Eswatini, Mmone Moletsane, welcomed the progress on the Ndzevane Project and said it would improve livelihoods for both refugees and host families.
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