By Phiwa Sikhondze
Gciniwe Fakudze, the newly-appointed CEO of Mbabane Municipality says one of her objectives while in Office is to ensure that Mbabane residents get to have title deeds and own property legally.
The CEO disclosed this on the “Temadolobha” radio programme aired on Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS). The programme is aired on Wednesdays and is hosted by Zamancele Mavuso, Eswatini Housing Board Marketing Manager. Fakudze was accompanied by Lucky Tsabedze, the Municipality’s Public Information Officer during the interview.
Fakudze noted during the interview that many residents have lived in Mbabane for decades without owning land, which was quite unfortunate.
“People who were born, raised, and grew up in this city still have no title deeds for the land they’ve occupied for so long,” she said. She pledged to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure that access to title deeds is improved, allowing EmaSwati to own their land in the city legally.
She emphasized that her leadership will be guided by the five-year Integrated Development Plan (IDP) focusing on smart city innovations, economic revitalization, and improved living standards for all residents.
She added that working with stakeholders, they will work tirelessly to ensure that Mbabane is a city that mirrors the stature of the capital, not just in name, but in every aspect of urban life.
Fakudze stressed that this transformation will not only elevate Mbabane’s status, but also attract new investments and create a more vibrant, youth-driven economy.
However, she expressed concern over the recent trend of big businesses relocating from Mbabane to other towns in Eswatini. She pointed out that this migration of businesses is causing substantial economic losses for the city.
“We cannot afford to lose more businesses. The impact on job opportunities and overall economic growth is too significant to ignore,” she said, calling for urgent measures to retain businesses in Mbabane.
The CEO also emphasized the need for collaboration between the city and businesses to halt the exodus and ensure that Mbabane remains a competitive hub for investment.
Fakudze further highlighted the importance of improving human settlements in the capital. She stressed that many residents, including students from institutions such as the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, face challenges finding proper accommodation.
She committed to working on better housing solutions, ensuring that residents live in environments that reflect the city’s aspirations of becoming a first-world capital city.
“Mbabane must be a city full of opportunities,” Fakudze remarked, adding that youth empowerment is a priority. Her administration aims to create more opportunities for young people, especially in entrepreneurship and employment, while addressing the critical settlement needs within the city.