The Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) has reaffirmed its commitment to community development by investing over E1.3 million in the construction of a modern community hall at Ndzevane, under the Mngometulu Chiefdom.

This project is part of EWADE’s larger initiative to uplift local communities and empower over 2,000 residents from 300 homesteads with a much-needed facility for meetings, events, and other gatherings.

For many years, the people of Ndzevane struggled without an adequate venue for important gatherings such as weddings, church services, and community meetings. Residents were forced to rent tents and endure unpredictable weather conditions. Now, this new hall, measuring 29 by 14.5 meters and featuring two offices, will alleviate these challenges and provide a safe, comfortable space for the community.

LUSIP II’s impact on community life
The construction of the hall, which began on March 6, was originally scheduled to be completed by September 6. However, due to unforeseen challenges, the project team has requested an extension, with the goal of completing the final touch-ups by the end of September. In addition to the hall itself, the project includes fencing the surrounding area to enhance security and maintain the facility.

Despite the minor delay, the contractor, Man of Steel, has been working diligently to bring the project to completion. The hall is designed to be fully accessible, including ramps to accommodate people with disabilities.

One of the immediate benefits of the project has been the employment of eight local community members, directly impacting 56 livelihoods based on Eswatini’s dependency ratio of one worker supporting seven dependents (1:7). This not only injects income into the local economy but also strengthens community ties.

Local leader of the project, Community Liaison Officer (CLO) Ntokozo Mngometulu expressed the community’s heartfelt gratitude for this transformation, stating: “Now that we have the hall, the community will be able to convene meetings at any time, regardless of the weather conditions. Before, we struggled to meet due to lack of proper accommodations. Rain or intense heat would often force us to cancel important gatherings.”

The new facility will also benefit local emerging commercial farmers, who have faced difficulties convening business meetings in the past. Previously, they relied on EWADE’s boardroom for their gatherings, but with the new hall, local farmer companies will have a dedicated space for their business activities. This development is a key enabler for their growth as they transition from subsistence to commercial farming.

A testament to EWADE’s commitment
Speaking about the significance of the project, Lower Usuthu Irrigation Project Phase II (LUSIP II) Project Manager Gcina Ginindza expressed his pride in EWADE’s contribution to the community. “We are very pleased with the progress of the community hall and what it represents. This investment shows that EWADE is not only focused on water infrastructure development and commercial farming but also committed to empowering and uplifting the communities we serve.”

Ginindza highlighted that EWADE’s holistic approach is key to its success. “We understand that for agricultural enterprises to thrive, the surrounding communities must also be empowered. This hall will be a lasting symbol of our commitment to ensuring that the people of Ndzevane have the facilities they need to improve their lives.”

Gratitude from the community and project team
Mngometulu, on behalf of the community, expressed immense gratitude to EWADE for the investment. “EWADE has shown that it truly cares about the community. This project demonstrates that they are thinking beyond just water infrastructure and farming; they are addressing the social needs of the people. We are very excited and can’t wait to start utilizing the hall for our events.”

The site foreman from Man of Steel, Zakhele Tembe, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the support and dedication of the community throughout the project. “The cooperation we’ve received from the community has been incredible, and we’re confident the hall will soon be ready for use,” he said.

Siyabonga Menon, the EWADE engineer overseeing the construction, also praised the work of the contractor. “Despite the delays caused by unforeseen challenges, I am very impressed with the professionalism and dedication shown by Man of Steel. The team has been working tirelessly to deliver a high-quality project, and we are pleased with the progress.”

A holistic approach to development
The construction of the Ndzevane Community Hall is part of EWADE’s broader strategy to support the growth and development of communities under LUSIP II. Through this initiative, EWADE is not only focused on expanding commercial farming—most notably the production of sugarcane and bananas—but is also actively investing in infrastructure that directly benefits local residents.

With the hall and its accompanying fencing nearing completion, the people of Ndzevane are looking forward to embracing a new chapter. This modern facility will allow the community to gather, hold important meetings, and conduct business in a space that reflects their aspirations and the transformative power of EWADE’s investments.

This project is a testament to EWADE’s ongoing commitment to holistic development—uplifting communities, fostering economic growth, and improving the lives of emaSwati across the country