Eswatini Sugar, in partnership with ED&F Man Sugar, has officially handed over three newly renovated classrooms to Dlalisile National Primary School in Hlane, marking a significant milestone in their shared efforts to uplift education in rural communities.
The E281,337 project, implemented in collaboration with Micro Projects, has transformed the learning environment, creating a brighter and more inspiring space for both teachers and learners.
The handover ceremony, attended by representatives from Eswatini Sugar, ED&F Man Sugar, Micro Projects, and the school community, celebrated a project that demonstrates the impact of strong industry partnerships in driving community development.
Delivering remarks during the event, Daniel Polak from ED&F Man Sugar expressed his appreciation for the long-standing relationship between his company and Eswatini Sugar, describing the initiative as an investment in the future of Eswatini’s children.
“We have worked closely with Eswatini Sugar for many years, and this partnership continues to strengthen communities,” Polak said. “The children of Eswatini are the future of our industry and our communities, and we are proud to play a role in improving their learning environment.”
The renovations covered three classrooms that were previously in a state of disrepair. The project included the installation of new chalkboards and noticeboards, replacement of old bookshelves, repairs to floors and walls, and fresh paintwork throughout.
According to Mongezi Zwane, the project manager from Micro Projects, all works were completed to a high standard, and the project will be monitored under a six-month defect liability period to ensure sustainability.
“We are proud of the quality of work achieved here,” Zwane said. “The classrooms have been completely revitalized and now provide a conducive space for learning. I would like to thank the contractor for his commitment and Eswatini Sugar for their continued support in making this possible.”
CEO of Eswatini Sugar, Banele Nyamane, commended the high-quality finish of the renovated classrooms, noting that the standard of workmanship was so impressive. He applauded the dedication of all stakeholders who made the project a success, from planning to completion.
“The transformation we see here is remarkable,” he said. “These classrooms now meet a very high standard, and we are grateful to everyone involved for ensuring that learners in Hlane can enjoy a dignified and inspiring environment.”
He further thanked ED&F Man Sugar as the first customer of Eswatini Sugar to give back to Eswatini’s society, urging the community and school administration to maintain the new structures.
New Dawn
For Dlalisile National Primary School, the renovations have ushered in what the head teacher, Maria Simelane, described as “a new dawn.” She recalled the poor conditions that previously made teaching and learning difficult, with cracked floors and discoloured walls that created a discouraging atmosphere.
“Before this project, our classrooms were in a dilapidated state and not conducive for learning,” she said. “Thanks to Eswatini Sugar and ED&F Man Sugar, our learners now have safe, bright, and comfortable classrooms that motivate both teachers and pupils. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on the lives of many young learners and the community as a whole.”
While expressing deep gratitude, Simelane also appealed for continued support to renovate other classrooms that remain in poor condition.
“Several other classrooms are still in a state of disrepair,” she said. “We humbly request further assistance to help us complete the renovation of the remaining blocks so that every learner can benefit from a safe and inspiring learning space.”
ED&F Man Sugar is a leading global commodities trading company headquartered in London, with decades of experience in the sugar industry. The company sources, trades, and distributes sugar across the world, maintaining strong relationships with producers and refiners in key sugar-producing regions. ED&F Man Sugar has been a long-standing and valued customer of Eswatini Sugar, purchasing high-quality sugar for international markets.
For Eswatini Sugar and ED&F Man Sugar, the initiative is part of their ongoing corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitment to support education, community development, and social progress within Eswatini’s sugar belt.