Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Government of Eswatini is seeking to secure E800 million to fund youth-led agricultural projects in an effort to tackle unemployment and boost national food security.
The proposal was debated in Senate after Senator Tony Sibandze, Chairperson of the Senate Portfolio Committee on Finance, tabled a report supporting the passage of a bill that will authorise Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg to borrow the funds on behalf of the State.
Addressing Senate President Lindiwe Dlamini, Sibandze urged fellow senators to adopt the report, arguing that the loan would serve as an essential investment in Eswatini’s future.
“The youth must be supported in every way possible because they are the future of this country,” he said. “They lack job opportunities, and this initiative will provide meaningful employment through agriculture.”
Senator Chief Ngome Ndlangamandla seconded the motion, stressing that government could not ignore the growing crisis of youth unemployment.
“We cannot stand aside and watch the youth sink into poverty,” he said. “As policymakers, we must empower them to secure the future of this country.”
Several senators spoke in support of the loan, praising government for prioritising the economic empowerment of young people. Senator Prince Ngangabani noted that the agricultural focus would also help strengthen national food self-sufficiency.
Senate Deputy President Ndumiso Mdluli echoed the sentiment, saying the loan would not only uplift young people but also stimulate the broader economy.
Senator Chief Mvimbi Matse also commended government for “remembering the youth when securing development funding,” while Senators Stukie Motsa and Celumusa Mndvoti described the initiative as a concrete step toward long-term national development.
Senate President Lindiwe Dlamini eventually called for a vote, and the report was adopted — clearing the way for Minister Rijkenberg to secure the E800 million loan.
The funding is expected to support large-scale agricultural projects, skills development, and job creation among Eswatini’s young population, though further details on implementation have not yet been announced.
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