BY PHESHEYA KUNENE
EZULWINI – Ezulwini turned green with dignity last night as Eswatini celebrated its finest environmental champions at the Temvelo Awards 2025.
The event carried a rare mix of elation, urgency and national reflection.
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini told guests that the future of the country rests on conscious choices made today. He said the theme Our Land Our Legacy holds deep truth because the environment remains the backbone of the nation’s economy and culture.
One of the night’s brightest moments came when Eswatini Observer journalist Sibusiso Dlamini received the Environmentally Responsive Journalist Award. Busiswa Dlamini accepted the accolade on his behalf and said the award confirms that journalism still shapes public awareness and inspires action.
Women Unlimited Eswatini added a mighty voice to the ceremony. Its Executive Director Vimbai Kapurura presented the Innovative Waste Management Award to the Malandela Green Team. She said women and youth must continue unlocking economic opportunities in the waste value chain because innovative waste solutions strengthen household incomes and the national economy.
St John Bosco High School claimed the Green School of the Year Award. The school said it was proud to lead young people into a culture of sustainability and climate responsibility.
The Eswatini National Trust Commission applauded two major wins. The Municipal Council of Mbabane received the Green Municipal Award for its commitment to cleaner, greener urban development. The Mbuluzi Ecosystem Restoration Project also walked away with the Ecosystem Hero Award for its work in restoring degraded landscapes and building long term community resilience.
UNESWA FM celebrated as it scooped the Most Responsive Media House Award. Colleagues praised Setsabile Shongwe for her passion and consistency which they said lifted the station into the national spotlight.
The European Union Delegation to Eswatini offered a reflective message. Head of Cooperation Eva Maria Engdahl said the Temvelo Awards are a call to raise standards and celebrate good work that often goes unnoticed. She commended the Eswatini Environment Authority for sustaining a platform that inspires excellence in climate action and environmental protection.
River basin experts also shared their voice. The Joint River Basin Authorities Project Board said safeguarding Eswatini’s rivers remains central to climate resilience and community wellbeing.
The night closed with a reminder from the Prime Minister. He urged communities, government and the private sector to act with shared purpose because nature cannot defend itself.
Umhlaba Uyimphilo Yetfu, Asiwonge.
