An AIDS epidemic, on a scale unknown anywhere else in the world, is devastating Eswatini (formally known as Swaziland). In the face of their suffering, the Swazi people cling to an ideal they call “ubuntu”, the essence of humanity that tells us we are all connected and should care for each other. Energy Atlantica is proud to partner with the Hampton-Piggs Peak Partnership to care for our neighbours, the people of Eswatini…the people of Piggs Peak and surrounding areas.
The Story
Ms. Thandi Nhlengethwa, Director of The AIDS Information and Support Centre (TASC) in Swaziland, visited Hampton High School in Hampton, NB in 2004. Mark Bettle, the founder of HPPP, was invited to listen to her presentation by a teacher at Hampton High School.
Mark listened to Thandi convey statistics about the impacts of HIV/AIDS in Swaziland and learned that they have the highest incidence of HIV/AIDS and the lowest life expectancy in the world. He listened as Thandi told the stories about teenage girls raising younger siblings; 80-year old grandmothers caring for as many as 12 grandchildren in a one-room hut; and 6-year old children being afraid of dying, because death is all they see and was immediately compelled to help.
Mark travelled to Piggs Peak, a town in Swaziland, to see the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS first hand. Through several meetings with the people of Piggs Peak and residents of the Town of Hampton, the Hampton-Piggs Peak Partnership was formed.
“Thanks to the help of Energy Atlantica who took the lead on donating and recruiting local business executives, Hampton-Piggs Peak Partnership is sending 500 youth to school in Eswatini, Africa! Education is not free there so without help these kids would not be able to attend high school. We have doubled our impact in two years! Each year, as donations are made, more children are added to the program, changing lives, and providing hope for a better future for individuals and communities.”
Mark Bettle, Chief Executive Officer at Hampton-Piggs Peak Partnership Inc
Mark Bettle & Siyabulela Mandela, great grandson of Nelson Mandela
“My wife Ashley and I are grateful to support the Partnership. We believe education is the key to change; the kids in Eswatini endure unimaginable challenges throughout their lives. Helping feels good!”
Todd McDonald, CEO & President Energy Atlantica
Todd McDonald first met Mark Bettle through a professional working relationship that spanned over 15 years. Over that time, they built a strong mutual respect grounded in shared values and dedication. When Mark retired, he introduced Todd to the Hampton-Piggs Peak Partnership, a charity close to his heart. Todd was deeply impressed by the meaningful work being done to support children and families in Eswatini.
Wanting to contribute in a meaningful way, Todd brought the cause to Energy Atlantica. The company quickly embraced the initiative and is now proud to support the education of over one hundred children—young people who would not have the opportunity to attend school without this vital support.
“We saved her future. This is the good work you are doing here. Thank you so much Canada.”
Sinenhlanhla Motsa, a 17-year-old girl who cares for her 5-year-old sister. TK, who works for the charity, shared her struggles: “Three years ago, Sinenhlanhla was forced to drop school because no one was going to pay for her school fees. Secondly, she was taking care of her sister. She was a maid for two of her rich neighbours, making money for their food and necessities”
“She put some money aside from another homestead she was doing washing for so that she could go back to school in 2024. But she didn’t manage to pay for third term. This girl was going to school and taking the little one to a pre-school paid by the government. She passed Form 2 and I wonder how she managed to pass with all this extra work as a maid and doing washing for the other homestead. During December school holidays she made enough money to finish up last year’s fees.”
“This year, Sinenhlanhla gave up because of the situation she is living under. She was quitting school. That’s where I came in. I arranged with a Member of Parliament here to help take care of the little sister including breakfast, clothes, and pre-school uniform. Then I told Sinenhlanhla she was selected by us to go back to Enkhaba High School for her Form 3. She still cares for her little sister but with no concern about necessities.”
“The support from Hampton has shown us that dreams can come true. It changed my life. I hope to give back, both as a teacher and possibly as a sponsor myself.”
Nokuthula Tsela was 21 and out of school when the Piggs Peak Partnership stepped in. She had dropped out in Grade 8 due to financial hardship and had lost hope. With our support, she returned to Grade 8 and graduated high school at the age of 25. She went on to earn her degree from the University of Eswatini and become a high school teacher in Mbabane, shaping the futures of the next generation.
