Africa-Press – Eswatini. Manzini has undergone a remarkable transformation from a modest town into a vibrant economic, cultural and social hub over the past four decades, a development attributed to the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Mswati III.
Reflecting on the 40-year reign of His Majesty on April 20, 2026, Dr. Lungile Dlamini, Chief Executive Officer of the Municipal Council of Manzini, said the city’s growth stands as a living testimony of national progress and sustained development.
She said Manzini journey from a small urban settlement of about 16 000 people in 1986 to a thriving city of approximately 120 000 residents in 2026 reflects both rapid urbanisation and strategic expansion following its official declaration as a city in 1992.
“This transformation has been remarkable. Manzini has evolved into a dynamic hub of economic activity, cultural exchange and social development, driven by consistent infrastructure investment and national development priorities,” she said.
The CEO noted that the city’s expansion has gone hand in hand with improvements in infrastructure, healthcare services, road networks and residential development, which have collectively enhanced the quality of life for residents.
She highlighted that Manzini continues to position itself as a future smart and inclusive city, guided by innovation and aligned with global development frameworks.
Among the major developments reshaping the city is the E4–6 billion Manzini Arch Development Project at the former golf course, which includes a shopping complex, hotel, residential park and a government service hub known as “The Jewel.” The project is expected to create more than 1 200 jobs in its initial phase.
Other key projects include the redevelopment of the old Trade Fair site into the Manzini Regional Mall and a 200-bed hotel, as well as the upgrading of the Main Bus Rank into a modern transport terminal aimed at easing congestion and improving mobility.
Infrastructure upgrades such as the rehabilitation of the D98 road from Zakhele to Sihlahleni and the completion of the Mantayi Bridge are also part of ongoing efforts to strengthen connectivity and support economic activity.
On the social development front, Dr. Lungile Dlamini pointed to the establishment of a new HIV medical facility at the former Ministry of Agriculture premises, describing it as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery systems.
She further encouraged residents to actively participate in environmental sustainability efforts, particularly initiatives aimed at reducing the city’s carbon footprint and strengthening climate resilience.
“As a city, we are also called to respond to global challenges such as climate change. Every individual has a role to play in building a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable Manzini,” she said.
The CEO said Manzini’s transformation reflects a broader national story of progress, strong governance and shared prosperity, adding that the municipality remains committed to driving inclusive development for all residents.
“As we reflect on four decades of leadership, we also celebrate the immense progress that continues to shape Manzini into a modern and competitive urban centre,” she said.
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