Eswatini DPM Thulisile Dladla Advocates for People-Centred Laws Amidst Disability Support Donation

Taiwan Donates Specialized Vehicles to Boost Disability Inclusion

Mbabane, Eswatini – Eswatini's Deputy Prime Minister, Thulisile Dladla, recently emphasized the critical need for practical, people-centred laws to drive national progress, particularly in the context of empowering persons with disabilities. Her remarks came during the official handover ceremony of two specialized Toyota Quantums, a generous donation from the Republic of China (Taiwan), valued at E1.9 million. The ceremony took place at her offices on November 10, 2025.

The newly acquired vehicles are specifically designed to improve mobility, accessibility, and independence for persons with disabilities across the country. They feature universal adaptations to ensure safer and more comfortable transportation, facilitating access to essential health, education, and social services. This donation increases Eswatini's fleet of specialized vehicles for persons with disabilities to a total of four.

DPM Dladla Highlights Impact of People-Centred Initiatives

During the handover, Deputy Prime Minister Dladla expressed profound gratitude for Taiwan's contribution, describing it as 'a powerful symbol of compassion, inclusion, and enduring friendship.' She further stated, 'This donation is not merely a transfer of assets, but a tangible step toward a more inclusive Eswatini. It will restore dignity, independence, and hope for many of our citizens who have been limited by mobility challenges.'

Taiwan's Ambassador to Eswatini, Jeremy Liang, reiterated his country's commitment to 'practical, people-centred projects.' Ambassador Liang remarked, 'A disability may change the path, but it does not erase the destination. Every community becomes stronger when we recognize that strength comes in many forms.' The Federation of Organisations of Disabled Persons in Swaziland (FODSWA) also conveyed its appreciation for the donation, acknowledging its significant impact.

Eswatini's Broader Commitment to Disability Rights

The donation aligns with Eswatini's ongoing efforts to champion the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities. The nation ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2012, laying the groundwork for comprehensive disability inclusion policies. This commitment was further solidified with the enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2018, which aims to protect and promote the rights of this demographic.

In a significant step towards implementation, Deputy Prime Minister Dladla officially launched the Eswatini Disability Plan of Action of 2024-2028 on June 12, 2024, at The George Hotel in Manzini. This plan is designed to ensure that persons with disabilities can fully exercise their rights and participate equally in community life, while also mainstreaming disability issues across all national policies and development programs. Additionally, the DPM launched crucial resource materials, including a 'Handbook on Disability Mainstreaming and Disability Inclusive Budgeting' and a 'Service Directory for and of Persons with Disabilities in Eswatini.'

International Advocacy for Inclusive Development

Eswatini's dedication to inclusive development extends to the international stage. Deputy Prime Minister Dladla recently represented the country at the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2) in Doha, Qatar, held from November 4-6, 2025. At the summit, she reaffirmed Eswatini's commitment to inclusive growth and the empowerment of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities. The resulting Doha Political Declaration explicitly calls for the empowerment of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, underscoring a global consensus on these critical issues.