By 
By Thokozani Mazibuko
In a landmark move signalling a significant commitment to social welfare, the Government of Eswatini has allocated a historic E1.07 billion to the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPM) to address the needs of the kingdom’s most vulnerable citizens.
The announcement, made by Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg during his National Budget Speech in Parliament on Friday, promises a brighter future for those struggling with poverty and hardship.
The allocation follows extensive consultations during the Sibaya National Dialogue and subsequent Community Outreach Programmes conducted by the DPM’s Office across all four regions.
These initiatives aimed to identify pressing vulnerabilities and social issues requiring immediate attention.
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“Following the submissions made during the Sibaya National Dialogue…the Government…has conducted a Community Outreach Programme in all four regions, to identify vulnerabilities and other social ills that require immediate social protection interventions,” Minister Rijkenberg stated.
A key focus of the funding is providing decent shelter for vulnerable populations. The government, with support from partner organizations, has already constructed 20 houses for the needy, including elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and child-headed households.
Looking ahead to the 2025/26 financial year, the government plans to construct houses with backyard gardens, fencing, and water tanks to promote water harvesting and ensure access to clean and safe drinking water.
The budget also reflects a strong commitment to inclusiveness and the mainstreaming of disability issues.
The government recently launched the National Disability Plan of Action 2024-2028, which will guide the implementation of inclusive policies and development programs.
With the support of UN Development Partners, the Kingdom has also received E13 million to strengthen services in the education and health sectors, focusing on human capital development for people with disabilities.
To further support this crucial mandate, the government has allocated funds to establish a Secretariat that will ensure the DPM’s Office can effectively deliver on the aspirations outlined in the National Plan of Action for 2024-2028.
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This record allocation of E1.07 billion underscores the Government of Eswatini’s dedication to caring for its most vulnerable citizens and building a more equitable and inclusive society.
It signals a significant step forward in addressing poverty, promoting social welfare, and empowering marginalized communities across the Kingdom.
The Minister highlighted, “The Government has allocated E1.07 billion to the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office in order to continue with these essential services of taking care of the most vulnerable.”
