Africa-Press – Eswatini. Government has made major progress in settling payments to suppliers, signalling stronger cash flow and renewed confidence in public finance management.
Speaking during Finance in Focus, the Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg confirmed that payments are now largely up to date.
“We have managed to catch up on suppliers here at the Ministry of Finance. At the moment, what will be outstanding are invoices that reached the Ministry towards the end of January,” Rijkenberg said.
This development marks a significant step toward strengthening trust between government and the business community, especially for companies that depend on timely payments.
Attention is now turning to outstanding Millennium Projects and EWADE payments, which are expected to be cleared once delayed funding is received.
“We are hoping early next week that the OPEC funding will come in. At that stage, we will be able to catch up on all these monies to Millennium Projects and outstanding capital projects,” Rijkenberg explained.
He emphasised that suppliers involved in these projects should expect improved payment timelines as funds are released.
The Ministry also issued an important reminder to businesses supplying government.
“Suppliers must please ensure that when they supply government, they are supplying on a government order,” he cautioned. “If you supply without an order, that is where payments get held up. If you follow the rule, your payments will come through smoother.”
This message comes as government prepares to close its financial books for the 2025/2026 financial year.
“The shut-off for orders being issued will be the 10th of February. Anyone who has stock to supply government must finalise before that date, otherwise they will have to wait for the next financial year starting in April,” he said.
A major highlight of the update is the rollout of the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMAS), a digital transformation expected to revolutionise public finance.
“This system is going to be very transparent and will streamline how ministries place orders and process payments,” Rijkenberg said. “From 1 April 2026, suppliers must make sure they have an order because without an order, you will not be able to get into the system.”
Meanwhile, preparations for the national budget are progressing smoothly.
“Cabinet has approved the budget, and the process is moving forward. The budget speech should be delivered towards the end of February,” Rijkenberg confirmed.
He added that the new budget will include the salary review, demonstrating government’s commitment to supporting public servants while maintaining fiscal discipline.
These developments highlight ongoing efforts to strengthen financial systems, support local businesses and enhance transparency, setting a positive tone for the new financial year.
