By 
By Bahle Gama
In response to the growing economic challenges facing the nation, particularly the rising costs of essential services like electricity and water, His Majesty King Mswati III has announced an increase in the elderly grant for the upcoming fiscal year.
The move aims to ease the financial strain on the country’s elderly citizens, many of whom have been struggling with the impact of inflation.
During the official opening of the second session of the 12th Parliament on January 31, 2025, the King highlighted the urgent need to support vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, who are often hit hardest by price hikes.
He emphasized that the government has a responsibility to protect and care for these groups, ensuring they are not left to suffer from inflation and economic instability.
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The increased grant will help cushion the elderly against inflationary pressures, providing them with a much-needed financial buffer. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader commitment to addressing the welfare of its most vulnerable citizens, with additional efforts being made to trace families who neglect their elderly members.
“We must continue to provide necessary assistance to those who have served our nation, and this increase in the elderly grant is a step towards ensuring their well-being and dignity in the face of rising living costs,” the King said.
As of February 2024, elderly individuals in Eswatini receive a monthly grant of E500 from the government. This grant is disbursed through the Social Welfare Department under the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office.
To qualify, recipients must be 60 years or older, be Swati citizens or permanent residents living in Eswatini, and not receive any other social grant. The application process involves visiting a Tinkhundla centre with a national identity card and, if applicable, proof of income or dividends.
Emphasizing the importance of supporting vulnerable groups in society, the King highlighted the nation’s collective responsibility to care for the elderly.
“We commend the government for initiating efforts to trace children and parents who have neglected their duty. The government and its partners are making further efforts to provide decent shelters for the less privileged,” His Majesty stated.
In addition to the grant increase, the King underlined the government’s commitment to partnering with the private sector to provide affordable housing solutions for emaSwati. He described housing as a basic necessity that should be accessible to all citizens.
The King’s address also highlighted broader government efforts to support the less privileged, including tracing and addressing cases of neglect by parents or guardians and ensuring that vulnerable groups, such as orphans and the homeless, have access to adequate shelter and resources.
This move to increase grants and enhance support for the elderly and vulnerable groups comes as part of the government’s broader strategy to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.
he King’s remarks were met with applause as they reflected a commitment to addressing key socio-economic challenges facing the nation.
His Majesty further emphasized the need for the government to provide adequate social assistance and care for vulnerable emaSwati to prevent them from growing up in impoverished conditions.
The King called for urgent action to ensure that slums do not emerge in the future, urging the government to prioritize sustainable solutions to improve living conditions for all citizens.
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The King also acknowledged the tangible achievements of the country’s legislators, commending their commitment and dedication to serving the nation.
“Having found your footing, we have seen your dedication through vibrant debates, active presence, and serving the people whilst producing legislation aimed at uplifting the socio-economic status of emaSwati,” he said.
He urged lawmakers to continue their efforts and to honour their role as a “nkwe” (a symbol of strength and leadership) by addressing submissions made during Sibaya.
The King emphasized that Parliament must strengthen citizen engagement and ensure full public participation in legislative outcomes to enhance service delivery.
The King’s call underscores the importance of a government that is responsive to the needs of its citizens, particularly vulnerable groups, while also fostering transparency and inclusion in policy making.
The legislators’ achievements and the King’s vision for a proactive and engaged Parliament highlight a collective commitment to building a better future for the people of Eswatini.
“We also encourage parliament to be responsive to emerging trends in technology, it is now time that every liSwati has access to laws passed and live streaming of parliament debates,” the King added.
