Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini is mourning the loss of a trailblazer and national heroine, the late Constance Simelane, who will be remembered not only as the country’s first female Deputy Prime Minister, but also as a fierce advocate for social justice and children’s rights.
Simelane, who passed away earlier this month, will be accorded a State funeral in honour of her remarkable contributions to the nation. The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, 26 July 2025, at the Golf Course in Manzini, beginning at 6am. A memorial service will be held the day prior, Friday, 25 July, at St Paul’s Methodist Church, also in Manzini.
Architect of the OVC Grant
Acting Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, in paying tribute to Simelane, praised her as the champion behind the Orphaned and Vulnerable Children (OVC) grant—a policy that changed the trajectory of thousands of children’s lives across Eswatini.
According to Dladla, Simelane’s deep concern for the welfare of children was sparked after a pivotal meeting with representatives from the European Union (EU), who raised alarm over the educational challenges faced by OVCs across Africa. In response, Simelane took decisive action. She championed a proposal to introduce a grant that would ensure access to education for children who had lost their parents or guardians.
“She did not rest,” Dladla recounted. “She ran from pillar to post until Cabinet approved the proposal, and then pushed it through Parliament. The OVC grant exists because of her tireless efforts.”
The Acting Prime Minister added that Their Majesties, the Government of Eswatini, and the nation at large were deeply saddened by Simelane’s passing.
A Life of Firsts and Service
Constance Simelane made history when she became Eswatini’s first female Deputy Prime Minister, a role she held with distinction. Prior to that, she held several ministerial portfolios, including the Ministry of Education and Training. Known for her firm leadership and unwavering commitment to public service, she was respected across political and social spheres for her integrity, compassion, and vision.
Throughout her career, Simelane remained a tireless advocate for education, gender equality, and social welfare. Her legacy is particularly felt among disadvantaged communities where she worked to expand access to basic services and empower the most vulnerable.
National Mourning and Tributes
As part of the mourning process, a condolence book has been made available to the public at the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO) in Mbabane, where members of the public may share their messages of sympathy and memories of the late leader.
“She served this country with heart and might,” said Dladla. “It is only fitting that she is laid to rest with the highest honour our nation can offer.”
Constance Simelane leaves behind a legacy that continues to shape Eswatini’s social development and inspire future generations of leaders, particularly women and young girls who aspire to break new ground in public service.
Briefly About Constance Simelane
Constance Simelane was a pioneering politician in Eswatini. Appointed to the Senate in 2001, she became Minister of Education in 2003. In October 2006, His Majesty King Mswati III appointed her as DPM, following the passing of another former DPM, Albert Heshane Shabangu.
Born to Funwako Simelane, a prominent Liswati teacher and diplomat, and Judith LaNkonyane, originally from Amsterdam, Mpumalanga (South Africa), Simelane was the second eldest of six children. Her family includes Thandiwe Dlamini, the longest-serving Executive Director of the Red Cross in Swaziland, and siblings Nomcebo, Zandile, Dumisa and Sifiso.
Educated abroad, Simelane was a recipient of the African Scholarship Program of American Universities, earning a Social Sciences degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago. She later obtained an MBA from the University of Washington and studied Advanced Purchasing Strategies in Austria.
Her professional journey began as a credit researcher in Chicago before returning to Eswatini to serve as Assistant Secretary in the DPM’s Office. She later worked for the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Simelane’s distinguished career in both public service and international development marked her as a formidable figure in Eswatini’s political history. Her leadership, particularly in advancing education and gender equity, continues to inspire future generations.
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