World Vision Eswatini and Municipal Council of Mbabane Forge Partnership to Support Vulnerable Urban Communities

World Vision Eswatini and the Municipal Council of Mbabane have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration to improve the wellbeing of vulnerable children, families, and youth living in the City of Mbabane.

The agreement, signed during a ceremony held at the Municipal Council offices, formalises a shared commitment to addressing some of the pressing social challenges affecting urban communities, including poverty, child vulnerability, youth unemployment, and limited support systems for disadvantaged households.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Municipal Council of Mbabane Chief Executive Officer Gciniwe Fakudze highlighted the realities of urban poverty, noting that while many families demonstrate remarkable resilience and dignity, significant challenges continue to affect some of the city's most vulnerable residents.

“Urban poverty is real. Behind the resilience we see every day are unemployed youth, elderly grandmothers struggling to make ends meet, child-headed households, and orphaned children who often face hardship without strong social support systems,” she said.

Through the partnership, World Vision Eswatini and the Municipal Council of Mbabane will combine resources, expertise, and networks to implement practical programmes focused on poverty reduction, child protection, youth skills development, and support for vulnerable households.

World Vision Eswatini National Director Amos Zaindi described the agreement as an important step towards creating lasting and meaningful change in urban communities.

“This MoU represents a common vision and renewed determination to work together for the wellbeing of the most vulnerable children, families, and communities within Mbabane,” said Zaindi.

He further noted that the partnership aligns with World Vision Eswatini’s 2026–2030 National Strategy, which prioritises reducing hunger and malnutrition and ending violence against children, particularly in urban settings where poverty and vulnerability are becoming increasingly concentrated.

As Eswatini continues to experience urbanisation, both organisations recognise the need for collaborative approaches that address the unique challenges faced by urban households while creating opportunities for children and young people to thrive.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to working with purpose and urgency to strengthen communities, improve the lives of vulnerable families, and create sustainable pathways towards a better future for the residents of Mbabane.