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Nature-based Solutions Pilot to Establish a Catchment Investment Plan Exhibition and Field Tour in Lubombo TFCA
17 November 2025
The Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC), in partnership with UNDP Eswatini and the Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA), successfully hosted the Nature-based Solutions Pilot to Establish a Catchment Investment Plan Exhibition and Field Tour in Lozitha on 14 November 2025. The event highlighted ongoing efforts to restore the Lusushwana River catchment, strengthen community stewardship, and build resilience against climate and environmental pressures.
The pilot project, funded by CONCO Limited at E870, 000.00 (USD 50,000), focuses on a combination of restoration techniques including invasive alien plant removal, replanting indigenous species, youth capacity building, and community-led landscape management. These interventions are central to demonstrating how nature-based solutions can effectively revive ecosystems and support sustainable development.
This project is critically important because the Lusushwana River catchment is under increasing pressure from climate variability, land degradation, and the spread of invasive alien species. These threats affect water security, biodiversity, household livelihoods, and downstream economic activities. By promoting ecological restoration and responsible land management practices, the project aims to restore ecological function while improving community well-being and resilience.
During the event, participants embarked on a guided field tour led by ENTC Project Coordinator, Mr. Mandla Makhanya, who showcased areas undergoing rehabilitation. Youth volunteers also demonstrated invasive species clearing techniques and shared personal testimonies on how the project is building skills and creating opportunities.
The programme included remarks from key partners: ENTC (on behalf of the CEO, Mr. Mduduzi Ndzinisa), UNDP (Deputy Resident Representative, Ms. Nessie Golakai-Gould), EEA (Mr. Mxolisi Maphanga), @Business Eswatini (representing CEO Mr. E. Nathi Dlamini), and CONCO Limited (General Manager, Mr. Muzi Mahlobo). Community leaders from Lozitha and Lobamba Lomdzala also expressed strong support and appreciation for the initiative.
The event demonstrated the power of partnership; bringing together national institutions, development partners, the private sector, youth, and traditional authorities to drive forward Eswatini’s vision for climate resilience and ecological restoration. Their contributions and shared commitment continue to shape the success of the Lusushwana catchment restoration efforts.
This project is critically important because the Lusushwana River catchment is under increasing pressure from climate variability, land degradation, and the spread of invasive alien species. These threats affect water security, biodiversity, household livelihoods, and downstream economic activities. By promoting ecological restoration and responsible land management practices, the project aims to restore ecological function while improving community well-being and resilience.
During the event, participants embarked on a guided field tour led by ENTC Project Coordinator, Mr. Mandla Makhanya, who showcased areas undergoing rehabilitation. Youth volunteers also demonstrated invasive species clearing techniques and shared personal testimonies on how the project is building skills and creating opportunities.
The programme included remarks from key partners: ENTC (on behalf of the CEO, Mr. Mduduzi Ndzinisa), UNDP (Deputy Resident Representative, Ms. Nessie Golakai-Gould), EEA (Mr. Mxolisi Maphanga), @Business Eswatini (representing CEO Mr. E. Nathi Dlamini), and CONCO Limited (General Manager, Mr. Muzi Mahlobo). Community leaders from Lozitha and Lobamba Lomdzala also expressed strong support and appreciation for the initiative.
The event demonstrated the power of partnership; bringing together national institutions, development partners, the private sector, youth, and traditional authorities to drive forward Eswatini’s vision for climate resilience and ecological restoration. Their contributions and shared commitment continue to shape the success of the Lusushwana catchment restoration efforts.
