Forging New Ties, Bolstering Tourism: Manzini, Ethekwini Municipalities Commit to Collaborate
In a demonstration of cultural exchange and tourism promotion, delegates from Ethekwini Municipality, Durban Tourism and uShaka Marine World, KwaZulu-Natal, last Friday embarked on an engaging tour to the vibrant City of Manzini. Traveling in a Ricksha bus, the delegation was accompanied by the management and staff of Manzini Municipality. The visit symbolised a significant step forward in building new relationships and exploring collaborative opportunities between the two cities. The tour, which blended business and leisure, was aimed at highlighting the rich cultural heritage and tourism potential of both Durban and Manzini city. Ethekwini, renowned for its breathtaking coastline, bustling markets and vibrant culture, was represented by delegates that were eager to share insights and experiences with their Manzini counterparts. The primary objective was to establish connections that promote mutual growth and development within the tourism sector. The Municipal Council of Manzini organised an itinerary characterized by visits to key city tourism attractions such as the Number 46 KwaMagogo and Somhlolo Park, business meetings and cultural exchanges.
A highlight of the trip was a formal meeting between Manzini city officials and the Durban delegation. During the meeting, Ethekwini Municipality City Manager Musa Mbhele expressed a strong interest in forming a lasting relationship with the City of Manzini. The Durban delegation emphasised the importance of such exchanges in promoting regional tourism. Benefits of shared knowledge, joint marketing efforts and collaborative projects designed to enhance tourism experiences in both cities also formed part of the discussions. The tour served as an excellent platform for delegates to discuss strategies, share best practices and explore potential collaborations. Manzini Municipality remains grateful to her partner, Eswatini Tourism Authority, for the crucial role she played in facilitating the tour and discussions.
WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: MUNICIPALITY MOBILISES TO COMBAT ILLEGAL DUMPING AND POLLUTION
In a decisive move to tackle pressing environmental concerns, the Municipal Council of Manzini will this World Environment Day launch a campaign to curb the rampant illegal dumping of hazardous oil and plastic waste in the City of Manzini. This initiative seeks to mitigate the severe impacts of these activities on local streams, wetlands and the broader environment. Noteworthy is that illegal mechanics in various areas have been discarding hazardous oil onto road reserves and some vacant plots. During rainy days, this oil gets washed away; contaminating nearby streams and wetlands. The pollution disrupts local ecosystems and poses health risks to residents. Furthermore, plastic pollution has become a pervasive issue in the city. Residents have been illegally disposing of plastic waste, resulting in littered landscapes and clogging of city drainage systems. According to experts, plastics can take centuries to decompose, causing long-term environmental damage. In an effort towards environmental protection, the Municipality, in collaboration with Matsapha, Malkerns Town Councils and Mankayane Town Board, will address these pressing issues on this year’s World Environment Day. This year’s theme, “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” highlights the urgency of these efforts. The Municipalities aim to reclaim polluted land, restore natural habitats and raise awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal.
The Municipality is calling on residents to participate in various activities planned for 2024 World Environment Day. These activities include neighborhood clean-ups, tree planting and workshops on sustainable waste management practices. By involving the community, the Municipality hopes to foster a sense of responsibility and collective action towards a cleaner environment. Recognising the severe impact of illegal dumping and plastic pollution on the environment and community health, the Municipality’s goal is to reclaim land, protect water bodies and create a sustainable future for all residents. It is also worth mentioning that the Municipality is mandated by the Litter Regulations of 2011, Waste Management Regulations of 2000 and Environment Management Act of 2002 to impose fines on individuals and businesses that continue to violate waste disposal laws.
…MUNICIPALITY PILOTS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME FOR MARGINALISED YOUTH
In an effort to bridge educational gaps and empower disadvantaged youth in the city, the Municipal Council of Manzini has partnered with Bosco Skills Centre to launch an innovative pilot project. This initiative is designed to provide educational opportunities to 10 out-of-school youth from the city’s low-income communities, offering them a two-year scholarship focused on vocational training and skills development. These youth, often marginalised and neglected, will now receive comprehensive training and support aimed at enhancing their employability and future prospects. The two-year scholarship, funded by the Municipality, covers a range of expenses including tuition fees, educational materials, practical training costs and business mentorship for the selected participants. By investing in the education and skills development of these marginalised youth, the Municipality is enabling them to break the cycle of poverty and work towards a brighter future. The vocational training and practical skills development provided will equip participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to secure meaningful employment and make significant contributions to society. This collaboration between the Municipality of Manzini and Bosco Skills Centre highlights a mutual dedication to social inclusion and community advancement.
By combining resources and expertise, both organisations aim to maximise the pilot project’s impact and create enduring positive changes in the lives of marginalised youth in the City of Manzini. As the pilot project commences, the Municipality is hopeful about its potential to significantly transform the lives of the 10 participating youth. Through continuous monitoring and evaluation, the programme will provide valuable insights to guide future initiatives, ensuring broader access to education and skills development for all residents of the city.
