MANZINI – The Mayor of Manzini, Wesley Dlamini, says he has adopted ‘a hands on’ and community-focused approach to leadership as he aims to wholly serve the people of the city.
Successfully elected into local government leadership in May, Dlamini caught up with What’s the Story Eswatini with Banele WJLM, where he shared insights of his journey, responsibilities, and the vision for Manzini.
He has been shaped into a leadership role from his school days and when he attended university it helped shape his approach to public service.
Dlamini pursued law studies and auditing, gaining valuable skills that propel him to positions similar to the current one.
Prior to being mayor, he served as a Ward 6 councillor, gaining firsthand experience in local government.
Today, Dlamini oversees infrastructure, community development, and municipal operations, emphasizing that leadership is about responsibility, not perks.
“It’s about understanding the culture, creating the right environment, and ensuring people can connect and thrive,” he explained.
Dlamini said being hands-on and community-focused means not confining himself to an office, rather engaging directly with rate payers to address their issues and ensure that local services meet their needs.
His leadership approach balances practicality with vision, prioritizing community engagement and development. His work aims to foster an environment where residents feel connected, supported, and empowered to thrive.
He also stressed the importance of empowering the youth and creating opportunities for future leaders. “Leadership is about giving others the platform to succeed,” he said.
Dlamini highlighted the importance of resilience, open-mindedness, and collaboration in leadership. He reflected on the challenges he has faced, noting that effective governance requires adaptability and a deep understanding of the community’s needs.
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