Mbabane – More than 130 youth volunteers under the Eswatini Red Cross Society gathered for an information session on the European Union Youth Empowerment Fund, in a show of growing interest in community driven development initiatives.
The meeting, held yesterday, brought together young people from across the country to learn about funding opportunities aimed at supporting youth led projects. The initiative targets individuals aged between 14 and 30 who are eager to transform their communities through practical and sustainable solutions.
Ncamsile Gama, National Society Development and Volunteer Coordinator, described the turnout as significant. 
“This is huge! And it is very exciting to see,” she said.
“Through our partnership with European Union in Eswatini, we have gathered Youth from around Eswatini for the common purpose to capacitate young people in skills enhancement and use. The European Union in Eswatini has made a call for expression of interest to all Youth between 14 and 30 years, dreaming to change their community for the better; to put in an application for a community project within various fields such as concerning climate change and action, environmental issues and those such as touching on and contributing to sustainability, among others,” she continued.
The programme aligns with global efforts under the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, where young people are being encouraged to respond to challenges in their communities with innovative and sustainable ideas.
European Union representative Bhekani Magongo welcomed the strong turnout, expressing confidence in local youth.
“This is a global opportunity that Eswatini has participated in before and won. I am confident, therefore that we have the capacity and solutions our communities need. And we are presenting the funding opportunity for that,” he said while addressing attendees.
He further noted that the initiative seeks to support youth ideas with financial backing so they can be implemented as practical socio economic and environmental solutions, particularly in rural communities.
Adding a practical demonstration to the session, EU Youth Advisory Board member Miss Bandile Mnisi showcased a brick made from recycled baby disposable diapers. The innovation speaks to challenges faced by many communities where diaper waste poses environmental risks. Her demonstration illustrated how waste can be turned into useful products, offering solutions that address multiple challenges at once.
The call for expression of interest is open until March 31 and can be accessed through the European Union in Eswatini platforms.
