BY MUKELO MAGAGULA
MBABANE- Prime Minister Cleopas Sipho Dlamini, has received a courtesy visit from Sylla Oumar, the Director for the Africa Regional Office of UN Habitat.
The meeting aimed to discuss various issues related to urban planning, land governance, housing policies, and the challenges posed by climate change.
One of the key topics addressed during the meeting was the UN’s interest in establishing a UN Habitat in Eswatini. Recognizing the importance of this initiative, Director Oumar called for Eswatini’s support in making this a reality.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the need for improved land planning in Eswatini, highlighting the existence of two distinct types of land – urban title land and Eswatini Nation Land, which falls under traditional structures. He admitted that, currently, there is virtually no planning in the latter part of the land, requiring urgent attention and intervention.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of revisiting existing policies to ensure they are effectively serving the country’s needs. He also expressed the government’s anticipation for infrastructure growth in Eswatini. Additionally, he raised concerns regarding the rapid emergence of informal settlements near cities, emphasizing the potential expensive problem that could arise when addressing future needs for resettlement.
Overall, the discussion between Prime Minister Cleopas Sipho Dlamini and UN Habitat Director Sylla Oumar shed light on the urgent need for improved land planning, housing policies, and sustainable urban development in Eswatini.
