Africa-Press – Eswatini. It was a night of hugs, heartfelt tributes and teary goodbyes as World Vision Eswatini honoured outgoing National Director Tinah Mukunda on Friday.
The farewell dinner, hosted at a packed venue, brought together senior government officials, donor partners, board members, World Vision’s senior leadership team, staff, faith leaders and friends to bid farewell to a woman many described as “visionary, nurturing, and transformational.”
Mukunda, who has served as the head of World Vision Eswatini for the past four years, is now headed to Ghana where she takes up a new assignment as National Director of World Vision Ghana. Speakers described her as a dynamic leader whose legacy would remain etched in Eswatini’s development journey, especially in transforming the lives of children and deepening partnerships with government and civil society.
Tourism and Environmental Affairs Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane praised Tinah’s leadership, saying it reflected “the strength and grace of feminine leadership.” She described Mukunda as a compassionate leader who led with empathy, while remaining strategic and impact-driven.
“She leaves behind not only a strong organisation, but a well-nurtured team, thanks to her emotional intelligence and inclusive leadership,” said the Minister, further applauding Mukunda’s role in pioneering the country’s first universal water access collaboration between World Vision and government.
Minister for Tinkhundla Administration and Development Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, who delivered the keynote address, thanked Mukunda for the transformation World Vision achieved under her watch.
“We appreciate World Vision’s commitment to sustainability, especially through the handover of assets like office buildings in transitioned programmes for communities to continue using,” he said.
World Vision Eswatini Board Members, the Senior Leadership Team and staff echoed the same sentiments, thanking her for inspiring good governance, integrity and results-focused programming. They highlighted the acquisition of the organisation’s new office building as one of her many milestones.
In her farewell speech, Mukunda thanked the Government of Eswatini, development partners, the UN family, the Church Forum and the communities they served. She gave a heartfelt tribute to her family, especially her husband and children, for their support, love and constant prayers.
“To the World Vision Eswatini staff, thank you. You made my work lighter and deeply fulfilling. This journey has been nothing short of a calling,” she said.
As she exits, Mukunda leaves behind a legacy of purpose-driven leadership and impact. And while her new chapter begins in Ghana, Eswatini knows this is not a goodbye, but a see-you-later.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
