Africa-Press – Eswatini. What started in the quiet corners of Nhlangano has now touched the world, Muzi Mhlongo’s story is one for the books.
In a world that often places emphasis on the big cities and the glamorous lifestyles of those in high places, there’s a young man whose journey shows that success knows no boundaries.
From the quiet streets of Nhlangano to the vibrant corridors of international development, Muzi Mhlongo’s career is a tale of resilience, purpose, and the power of determination.
Born and raised in the heart of Eswatini’s Shiselweni region, Mhlongo’s story began in the small town of Nhlangano. It was here that he first began to dream beyond the borders of his hometown. His desire for knowledge, leadership, and a better life propelled him to Mbabane, where he pursued a degree in Information Technology at Limkokwing University.
The foundation he built in Mbabane would soon serve as the stepping stone for a career that would reach across the globe.
But this wasn’t just about earning a degree; Mhlongo’s thirst for growth was undeniable. It wasn’t long before he earned a prestigious scholarship to India in 2020 to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Andhra University. The experience opened his eyes to new perspectives, immersing him in the rich diversity of India and honing his leadership skills in an international, cross-cultural environment.
Upon completing his studies, Mhlongo returned to Eswatini in 2022, determined to apply his newfound knowledge for the betterment of his country. Quickly making a name for himself as a local consultant, he became a trusted partner in several high-impact projects aimed at strengthening critical sectors. One standout contribution was his role in the Ministry of Health, where he played an instrumental part in implementing a new Human Resource Information System (HRIS), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), under a World Bank-funded program. His work directly contributed to improving health service delivery across Eswatini.
But Muzi Mhlongo’s story didn’t stop there. His passion for youth empowerment found its home through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Eswatini, where he became a key figure in the Eswatini Youth Empowerment Programme (EYEP). In this role, he helped develop a platform that connected young graduates with employment and internship opportunities, significantly reducing youth unemployment in the country.
It was clear that Mhlongo’s impact was far-reaching. His track record in Eswatini earned him an international call-up, and in 2025, he found himself in Niger as a Technical Advisor for the Niger Youth Empowerment Programme (NYEP). Here, he replicated his success, leading the creation of an innovative online platform aimed at connecting young Nigeriens with economic opportunities. Despite the challenges of working in one of West Africa’s most underdeveloped regions, Mhlongo’s platform began to make waves, giving young people hope and a fighting chance at a better future.
Across seven countries and countless impactful projects, Mhlongo has proven that leadership and innovation are not reserved for those in big cities but can be cultivated from anywhere. Whether he’s working in the bustling urban centers of India, collaborating with Eswatini’s government ministries, or advising international development teams in Niger, his journey has been driven by a deep belief that technology, strategic leadership, and a focus on human-centered development can change the world.
Reflecting on his journey, Mhlongo credits his roots in Nhlangano and his time in Mbabane for shaping his work ethic and resilience. “I’ve seen first-hand that real change happens when we listen to communities, innovate around their needs, and work together across cultures and disciplines,” he says, looking back at his career.
His story is not just one of professional triumph but also a testament to the power of education, the importance of seizing opportunities, and the need to always give back. Muzi Mhlongo’s journey is a clear reminder that no matter where you come from, with vision, determination, and a commitment to change, you can make a difference on the global stage.
In the words of Mhlongo, “When opportunity meets preparation, the sky is not the limit but only the beginning.” And for him, the sky is just the start.
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