Africa-Press – Eswatini. Clean water has finally arrived at Herefords Primary School, and the celebration was nothing short of epic.
The official launch of the E550 000 water project on Wednesday morning marked a major win for the rural community, thanks to a powerful partnership between Microprojects under the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development and Engineers in Action (EIA).
The vibe was electric as parents, pupils, teachers and community leaders gathered to witness what many called a dream come true.
MP hailed for walking the talk
Herefords residents were quick to praise their Member of Parliament, Sicelo “Khungankhosi” Dlamini, for driving meaningful development to their doorstep.
Speaking about the project, Dlamini said water scarcity had burdened the community for years.
“We have been troubled by water problems in Herefords at large, not just the school,” he said. “We thank Government, partners and Microprojects for bringing such an initiative to our community, and we hope this is the beginning of greater things.”
From America with love and tools
EIA WASH Project Manager Patrick Mettee told the audience that the impact of clean water could not be overstated. He described how the lack of safe drinking water had led to illness, absenteeism and lost potential for both learners and teachers.
“This project is vital for Herefords Primary,” he said. “Thanks to the partnership with the Ministry of Education and Training, Microprojects, and university volunteers from Cornell and Duke, we’re able to provide a sustainable solution. Children and staff will now have access to clean, potable water for many years.”
Mettee also revealed that 14 student volunteers from the USA had raised their own travel funds to come and help build the project over the next nine weeks.
“They came with love. Let’s return it in kind,” he added.
“It’s not just a pipe, it’s a lifeline”
Herefords Water Project Chairperson Jabulani Hlophe was visibly emotional as he welcomed the crowd. He said the school had been struggling for years and described the project as an answered prayer.
“This water project is not just a pipe, it’s a lifeline,” said Hlophe. “Over 270 learners will benefit. We’re feeling double-blessed because we also recently received a fencing project.”
Guard it like your home
Microprojects Community Development Officer Mduduzi Mdluli used the occasion to rally the community around responsibility and ownership.
“This is your project. Look after the materials, respect the workers, and let’s build together,” Mdluli said. “Development has arrived and it’s here to stay.” He also announced that Microprojects was constructing a road in the same area — a further boost to rural development.
Local leadership committed to transformation
Indvuna Yenkhundla Magolide Ndwandwe thanked Microprojects for extending development to the Mayiwane constituency. He commended the decision by Engineers in Action to fully fund the water project, sparing the community from any financial burden.
“This is the kind of partnership that brings real progress,” he said. “We’re ready to walk hand in hand with all stakeholders who want to develop our area.”
“All our schools deserve this”
Representing the Ministry of Education and Training, Buhleni National Primary Principal Zamucolo Mahlalela said the water project was a powerful reminder that rural learners matter.
“This is vital for every learner’s dignity and health,” said Mahlalela. “It’s painful to see rural children still relying on dirty water in 2025. We’re not just grateful, we’re committed to making sure this happens in other areas as well.”
As the sun shone down on the joyful faces of the Herefords community, one thing was clear — this wasn’t just about water. It was about dignity, development, and a future flowing with hope.
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