Africa-Press – Eswatini. Minister for Natural Resources and Energy Prince Lonkhokhela has outlined the country’s intention to generate as much as 1500 megawatts of electricity from domestic production once the Libhuku mining and power generation project is fully developed.
He made the remarks during the signing ceremony where the coal mining licence was formally acknowledged.
Prince Lonkhokhela said the planned energy capacity represents a significant shift in Eswatini’s long-term energy strategy, which has historically relied heavily on imported electricity from regional utilities.
He said part of the projected output will be supplied to the national grid while surplus electricity will be sold to South Africa, noting that discussions with that country’s natural resources authorities are already underway.
“We want Eswatini to produce its own electricity at a scale that supports national demand and creates opportunities for export. We are engaging our counterparts in South Africa to structure future sales once the plant is in operation,” said the minister.
He noted that several companies had already approached the ministry and the EEC seeking opportunities to partner on the mining and power generation aspects of the project.
According to the minister, the licensing approval has accelerated interest and positioned Eswatini as an emerging player in regional energy production.
The minister emphasised that the project aligns with the broader development direction expressed by emaSwati during the recent Sibaya national dialogue. He said Cabinet views the mining sector as a catalyst for economic expansion, job creation and industrialisation.
“Cabinet has a strong view that the mining sector must play a central role in reviving our economy and creating opportunities for emaSwati. This coal project speaks directly to that national vision,” he said.
Meanwhile Chairman of the Minerals Management Board, Prince Guduza, pledged full support to the minister and Cabinet to ensure the project’s success.
He said the board will maintain strict compliance oversight in line with constitutional requirements.
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