Africa-Press – Eswatini. According to the Central Statistical Office’s latest GDP bulletin, the nation posted a 0.5% quarter-to-quarter growth in the first quarter of 2025, a rebound from the -1.6% contraction experienced in the final quarter of 2024.
This uptick is being hailed as an early indicator that the country’s economy may be turning the corner after a turbulent 2024. Though the year-on-year growth dipped slightly by -0.25%, economists say the quarterly improvement is a more accurate measure of Eswatini’s short-term economic momentum.
The recovery is largely driven by renewed activity in key sectors like construction (up 25.9%), a rebound that suggests renewed investment in infrastructure. This follows government commitments to boost public works and regional development programs.
Additionally, the Tertiary Sector has continued its impressive run, growing 7.2% year-on-year, highlighting strong consumer demand and a thriving services environment. Notable gains were seen in financial services, wholesale and retail, and ICT.
“This growth gives us confidence that the policy measures introduced late last year are beginning to have a real impact,” noted an official at the Ministry of Economic Planning. “We’re seeing more jobs being created in services, renewed investor interest, and steady progress in digital transformation.”
Despite notable contractions in agriculture (-7.3%) and manufacturing (-13.2%), officials remain optimistic. “The economy is diversifying,” explained Director of Statistics Thembinkosi Shabalala. “While traditional sectors are struggling due to external shocks and seasonal impacts, our services sector is helping to carry the economy forward.”
The government has also been praised for its data-driven approach. GDP estimates are now calculated using the updated 2019 base year and aligned with the System of National Accounts (SNA 2008), offering greater accuracy and transparency.
Looking ahead, stakeholders are hopeful that Q2 will build on this positive momentum. With new investments in skills development, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure in the pipeline, the foundation appears set for a stronger economic performance in the second half of 2025.
The message is clear: while challenges remain, Eswatini’s economic engine is back in motion.
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