Mbabane – The newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of Mbabane Munucipality Gciniwe Fakudze, has outlined an ambitious vision for the city, positioning land ownership for residents as her foremost priority.
She made this bold declaration in a live interview with the national radio (EBIS) in a programme dubbed “Temadolobha” that airs every Wednesday from 08:00 to 08:30, hosted by Eswatini Housing Board Marketing Manager Zamancele Mavuso.
With aspirations to elevate Mbabane to a status of a first-world capital city, she emphasized the importance of equitable land distribution and sustainable urban development in transforming the city into a vibrant hub for its citizens. The CEO further noted that most of Mbabane residents do not have title deeds thus an urgent need to get them and own property legally.
In her passionate address, the CEO highlighted that many residents have lived in the city for decades without owning land which was unfortunate.
“It is very disheartening to learn that people who were born and raised in the city still have no title deeds for the land they have occupied for so long,” she said. She further added that land ownership is not just about property, but it is about dignity, stability, and the ability to build the future.
The vibrant CEO emphasized that her leadership will be guided by the five-year Integrated Development Plan (IDF) focusing on smart city innovations, economic revitalization, and improved living standards for all residents.
The CEO’s extends beyond land ownership, she envisions a comprehensive development plan that includes improved infrastructure, and enhanced public services.
“Working with stakeholders, we will work tirelessly to ensure that that Mbabane is a city that mirrors the stature of a capital, not just in name, but in every aspect of urban life,” she noted.
She further urged for a collaborative approach from stakeholders that prioritizes the needs of residents while attracting investments and focusing on economic development.
“This transformation will not only elevate Mbabane’s status but also attracts new investments and create more employment opportunities,” she elaborated.
However, during her live interview, she pointed out on her concerns over big businesses relocating to other towns, stating that such act hinders and cause substantial economic losses for the city.
“We cannot ignore the big businesses that are moving out of the city and the significant impact they have, and we have to act fast to retain businesses in the city,” she stressed.
Most importantly, the CEO highlighted on the paramount importance of improving human settlements in the capital.
She said in her term of office, she is committed to working on better housing solutions, ensuring that residents live in environments that reflects the city’s aspirations of becoming a first-world capital city.
“Mbabaane must be a city full of opportunities, remarks Fakudze while concluding the interview. She added that youth empowerment is top priority, emphasizing that her administration aims to create more opportunities for young people,
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