Prime Minister Russel Mmiso Dlamini was left shattered and disappointed by the terrible state of government offices and institutions in the Shiselweni region.
He said the situation required urgent attention.
The premier toured several departments, including the regional administrator’s offices and ministries housed at the Nhlangano Tobacco Company Complex, a privately owned property where government pays thousands of Emalangeni in rent.
He was accompanied by Public Works and Transport Minister Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Minister Bongani Nzima, Tinkhundla Principal Secretary Nonhlanhla Dlamini, Education PS Naniki Mnisi and Shiselweni Regional Administrator Themba Masuku.
At the RA offices, Dlamini was appalled to find what he described as ‘‘nothing but a cage,’’ a small, windowless room without ventilation, suitable only for one occupant. Meetings with more than 10 attendants required an alternative venue, as the office has no conference room.
The PM also visited government departments housed in the same building, including agriculture, home affairs and revenue, before proceeding to the Regional Education Offices, the Nhlangano Agricultural Skills Training Centre (NASTC) and finally the Nhlangano Town Council.
“I am appalled by what I have seen and I don’t even know how to describe the situation. It clearly shows that government offices and establishments have been neglected in this region. It’s a wake up call to government and there is need to do something,” Dlamini told the media.
He said some offices resembled cabins and did not provide a healthy working environment. “Government officers, starting from the RA to all civil servants, should work in conditions approved by health authorities. What I have seen here is not a good picture of government institutions. Government has to spring into action and address this situation urgently,” he said.
The premier stressed that regional offices were the ‘heart and engine’ of the region, serving as the meeting point between government and the public. “The regional offices serve as government’s face. The first impression should be good and marketable. What I saw does not portray a good image of government,” he said.
Dlamini assured that the tour would be followed by action and tangible results, adding that similar inspections would be conducted in Lubombo, Manzini and Hhohho regions.
