Africa-Press – Eswatini. The long-standing Mbondzela Farm dispute has taken a hopeful turn, as the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, HRH Prince Lonkhokhela, officially handed over four newly completed houses to displaced farm dwellers.
According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, the minister handed over the houses on Thursday, December 4, 2025. The milestone signals meaningful progress in resolving a matter that has drawn national attention and prompted widespread calls for compassion and fairness.
The homes were constructed by the farm owner as part of a court-guided agreement, reflecting a renewed commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution. Negotiations remain ongoing for the remaining families, with Government emphasising that every step forward must be grounded in dignity and respect for all parties involved.
Minister Calls for Dialogue and Respect for the Law
Speaking during the handover ceremony, HRH Prince Lonkhokhela acknowledged the emotional and social strain the dispute has caused for many families over the years. He noted that although the Farm Dwellers Control Act provides mechanisms to manage such conflicts, real-world implementation can be complex.
“The long-standing dispute between Mbondzela Farm residents and the farm owner had captured national attention,” he said. “Although the Act provides mechanisms for dispute resolution, implementation challenges led to regrettable losses on both sides. As a Ministry, we underscore the importance of dialogue, restraint, and respect for the rule of law.”
The Minister emphasised that today’s handover is not the end, but rather a constructive step forward, demonstrating what can be achieved through cooperation and adherence to legal processes.
Negotiations Progressing, More Homes to Be Built
Of the original 32 families residing on the farm, 24 have already been engaged as part of the ongoing negotiations. Encouragingly, 17 families have agreed to vacate the farm and have signed formal agreements that outline their terms moving forward.
The four houses handed over today represent the first phase of the relocation process. More houses are still to be constructed, ensuring that every family is accommodated in a manner consistent with the court agreement and with the dignity they deserve.
Community representatives expressed appreciation for the efforts being made to resolve the matter peacefully, noting that the provision of homes has brought a renewed sense of stability to affected families.
Support for Affected Families Continues
In a further gesture of compassion, HRH Prince Lonkhokhela also donated food parcels to the affected households, including those still residing on the farm while negotiations continue. The support was welcomed as a thoughtful intervention during a difficult transition period.
Families who received the new houses expressed deep gratitude, saying the gesture marks a new beginning filled with hope, safety, and dignity.
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