MP Futhi’s commitment to GBV, women empowerment, and fortifying Tinkhundla governance
In 1956, a unified group of women in South Africa coined the famous phrase “Wathint’ abafazi, wathint’ imbokodo,” which translates to “you strike a woman, you strike a rock.”
This powerful expression has become symbolic for women throughout Africa who are determined to stand strong like rocks in various fields and contribute to positive change.
Lubombo Member of Parliament Futhi Ngcamphalala, affectionately known as MaMkhize, embodies this spirit of resilience and empowerment, serving as a role model for many young women in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Originating from the heart of Lubombo, in the rural community of Ncandweni – Nkanini/Lusabeni under Nkilongo Inkhundla, Ngcamphalala has emerged as an extraordinary woman. Her journey from the corridors of the United Nations to the esteemed chambers of Parliament exemplifies a deep commitment to service and empowerment, inspiring countless young girls in her region and beyond.
As a Member of Parliament, she has pledged her commitment to progress and the advancement of women’s empowerment, aligning her efforts with His Majesty King Mswati III’s vision of propelling Eswatini towards becoming a first-world country.
Experience
Ngcamphalala’s extensive experience spans across continents, where she has diligently served in various capacities within the United Nations from 2012 to 2023. Her tenure as an International/Diplomatic Personnel took her to diverse corners of Africa and Europe, shaping her into a seasoned professional with a profound understanding of global dynamics and development challenges. With a rich educational background, she holds a Master’s Degree in
Public Administration which she acquired in
Nairobi, Kenya. She also holds other notable accolades from various institutions in
Africa and abroad.
The Member of before served in the
Parliament, Parliament,
United Nations Mission in South Sudan to the United Nations Operation in Somalia, holding roles as an Administrative/Development Officer and Community Development Officer. She also had her tenure at the United Nations Global Service Centre in Brindisi, Italy, and the United Nations Regional Service Centre in Entebbe, Uganda, where she served as a Training Officer which she asserted that it further honed her expertise in capacity building and organizational development.
Transitioning to the United Nations Office in Geneva and the UNDP Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office Service Centre in Johannesburg, Ngcamphalala served as a Human Resources Officer, contributing to the recruitment and development of talent vital for driving socio-economic progress in the region. Despite encountering setbacks in the political arena, Ngcamphalala’s resilience and determination propelled her forward. In the 2023 elections, she contested under her constituency in Nkilongo but faced defeat in the secondary elections. Undeterred, Ngcamphalala expressed that she redirected her focus to the Women’s Regional elections, where she stated that she was driven by her immense ambition to effect positive change. In the regional elections, she emerged victorious and secured her seat in the House of Assembly for the 12th Parliament as Lubombo Member of Parliament.
Impact
In response to a questionnaire from the Eswatini Financial Times regarding her decision to persevere, Ngcamphalala expressed her intrinsic drive to make a meaningful impact, “I am an ambitious person, and I always want to achieve great things not only for my benefit but beneficial to a larger circle of people. I always want to use my skills and knowledge to make a positive difference in the country and the world at large. I believe any person has something unique to offer, and I want to use my gifts to help others.”
Moreover, in her stance on women empowerment, Ngampahalala articulated, “I have a passion for working with the youth, women, and the girl child. My aim is to spearhead development initiatives in various fields including youth and women empowerment programs, agriculture, transport, infrastructure, and education.” She added that she aspires to cultivate a sense of independence and self-reliance among the youth and women of Lubombo and the nation as a whole, ensuring that communities are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to create job opportunities and alleviate unemployment.
“It is imperative to expose the youth to mechanisms that facilitate their access to information and technology, empowering them to engage in business ventures, particularly in renewable energy. Creating a conducive environment tailored to the needs of the people is paramount.” The Member of Parliament expressed. “I strongly advocate for the availability of vocational training to empower the youth and women, enabling them to initiate income-generating projects and achieve self-sufficiency.”
Ngcamphalala addressed the pressing issue of gender-based violence, emphasizing its detrimental impact on women and girls within the country. She pledged her strong commitment to collaborate with the government and other stakeholders to address this pervasive challenge. The Member of Parliament acknowledged that despite efforts made, much more action is required to effectively tackle gender-based violence and foster a safer environment for all individuals in the country.
Furthermore, on the upcoming King’s birthday celebration, Ngcamphalala expressed her gratitude to His Majesty King Mswati III for his exceptional leadership and praised the unique Tinkhundla system of Governance which is cherished by emaSwati. She conveyed her heartfelt wishes to His Majesty, stating, “On this joyous day, Your Majesty, may it bring you the deepest respect, countless reasons to smile, good health, and long life. May your special day be filled with joy and blessings befitting a Leader of your calibre. Bayethe wena Waphakathi.”