Eswatini launches elderly support programme in Mbabane

The Mbabane Municipal Council, in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, has launched the Elderly Community Support Programme to assist vulnerable residents in Eswatini's urban areas. The initiative was inaugurated at the Msunduza Social Centre, where over 200 elderly residents received public health screenings, care services, and meals.

Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla emphasized that while poverty interventions have traditionally focused on rural communities, urban poverty remains a growing concern that requires practical attention. She proposed that the government could potentially build housing for the elderly and vulnerable in areas like Msunduza to ensure safe accommodation.

Mayor Thulani Mkhonto noted that while the council currently provides daily meals to approximately 1,200 children, this new programme expands support to older citizens. The initiative will include a monthly cooking and food distribution tradition to ensure elderly residents are not overlooked by social support systems.