Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Eswatini Government’s programme of building and rehabilitating houses for elderly and vulnerable citizens has been widely commended as a practical fulfilment of the country’s constitutional obligations, reinforcing the State’s commitment to social protection and dignity for all.
Speaking on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini announced that during 2025 alone, Government successfully constructed 114 new houses and rehabilitated a further 274. The initiative, implemented largely through the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO) under the guidance of Their Majesties, is aimed at improving living conditions for elderly citizens and other vulnerable groups across the country.
The programme is firmly anchored in the Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini, which was enacted in 2005. Sections 27 to 31 of the Constitution clearly outline the State’s responsibility to care for vulnerable members of society, including women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities. These provisions emphasise the right to dignity, protection, and an acceptable standard of living, subject to the availability of resources.
Many Emaswati have praised Their Majesties and Government for translating constitutional principles into tangible action. Communities across the country have witnessed elderly citizens receiving safe, dignified housing, often replacing dilapidated structures that posed health and safety risks. The houses, some of which follow new and modern designs as directed by His Majesty the King, symbolise compassion, inclusion and national solidarity.
Civil society has also welcomed the initiative. The Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organisations (CANGO) joined in applauding Government’s efforts, describing the housing programme as a clear demonstration of constitutional compliance. CANGO Executive Director Thembinkosi Dlamini told Eswatini TV that a close reading of Sections 27 to 31 of the Constitution shows Government’s duty to ensure respectable living standards for vulnerable citizens.
He further encouraged Government to institutionalise the programme by allocating a dedicated budget line for housing construction and rehabilitation in the 2026/27 financial year. Such a move, he said, would ensure sustainability and allow more deserving citizens to benefit.
Section 27 of the Constitution highlights the protection of the family and obliges Government, subject to available resources, to enhance the welfare of the needy and the elderly. Section 28 guarantees women equal treatment and access to opportunities that promote their welfare and advancement. Section 29 outlines the rights of children to care, protection and education, while Section 30 affirms the dignity and full potential of persons with disabilities. Together, these provisions form the backbone of Eswatini’s social justice framework.
The housing programme stands as a powerful example of policy translating into impact. Beyond bricks and mortar, it restores dignity, security and hope to elderly citizens who have contributed to nation-building over many decades. As Government continues to implement constitutional mandates, the housing initiative remains a shining illustration of development that is people-centred, inclusive and rooted in the supreme law of the land.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
