BULANDZENI RESIDENTS STRUGGLE WITH POOR ROADS UNDER CHIEF AND PUBLIC WORKS MINISTER
Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, who also serves as Eswatini’s Minister of Public Works and Transport, is facing criticism for failing to maintain roads within his own traditional jurisdiction in Bulandzeni, Hhohho region. The poor state of the roads has left residents struggling with inadequate transport services, particularly along key routes connecting Magoga to St Peregrine, Pigg’s Peak, Fontotje, Ekubongweni High School, and Buhleni.
Public transport operators have reported difficulties in servicing the area due to the deteriorating roads, further isolating the community. A resident expressed frustration, questioning why the Chief, entrusted by the King with overseeing the nation’s roads and infrastructure, has failed to address the basic needs of his own subjects. “This is the man that the appointing authority has entrusted to take care of the country’s roads, yet he can’t service his own subjects with all the given resources,” the resident remarked.
Despite efforts to contact the Minister for comment, he had not responded at the time of reporting.
The situation in Bulandzeni is emblematic of broader infrastructural challenges across Eswatini, particularly in rural areas. Poor road conditions limit access to essential services and economic opportunities, compounding the struggles faced by already marginalized communities.
However, Brian Sangweni, National Spokesperson for the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), argued that the blame cannot fall solely on the Public Works Minister. Speaking to Swaziland News, Sangweni pointed to the centralized decision-making process under the monarchy, which prioritizes roads that serve royal interests over those in rural communities.
“You will note that there’s a road from Ludzidzini to Lozitha, and that road was constructed because the King has an interest. So it’s not only Bulandzeni—many chiefdoms are struggling with poor roads, and we cannot entirely blame the Public Works Minister as he does not have powers to decide which road to rehabilitate,” Sangweni stated.
The state of the roads in Bulandzeni highlights the systemic inequalities perpetuated by the Tinkhundla system of governance, where decisions about infrastructure are often influenced by royal priorities rather than the needs of the people. For residents of Bulandzeni, the poor condition of their roads is not just an inconvenience but a barrier to education, healthcare, and economic mobility.
While residents continue to call for action, the lack of accountability and resources allocated to rural areas leaves many questioning whether their needs will ever be prioritized. The case of Bulandzeni underscores the pressing need for reform in Eswatini’s infrastructure planning and governance to ensure equitable development for all communities. Until then, residents like those in Bulandzeni remain caught in a cycle of neglect and frustration.
