Africa-Press – Eswatini. The 2026/2027 National Budget is positioning Eswatini for a wave of economic activity, with Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg pointing a broad spectrum of opportunities aimed at empowering Emaswati through jobs, entrepreneurship, and community development.
Speaking during Finance in Focus, Rijkenberg explained that the new financial year, which began on April 1, is not just about numbers, but about unlocking real opportunities across key sectors of the economy.
“I thought I would just unpack a few of the areas where I believe this budget… is going to create opportunities for those looking at doing business and those seeking jobs,” said Rijkenberg.
At the centre of this transformation is the newly completed International Conference Centre (ICC), which is expected to redefine the country’s tourism and business landscape.
“It is absolutely… going to be a game-changer for our country,” Rijkenberg said, noting that the facility is set to attract frequent regional and international conferences.
“There’ll be two or three [meetings] a week… creating a huge demand for tourism… hotels, B&Bs… even if you have an extra room,” he added.
The budget also places strong emphasis on infrastructure, particularly road construction, which is expected to unlock both employment and business opportunities nationwide.
“There are a whole group of double-sealed roads being built… and there’s going to be a lot of work in that space,” he said.
A major 110km road project is also expected to stimulate economic activity along its route, encouraging the development of service businesses such as fuel stations and local markets.
Agriculture has received significant investment, with a strategic focus on transforming unused land into productive economic assets, especially for young people.
“We’ve got unemployment and we’ve got vacant land… if one puts these two together… you unlock unemployment,” Rijkenberg explained.
“It’s going to be opening up thousands of opportunities… leaning towards youth and women,” he added.
Rural communities are also set to benefit significantly, with the Community Development Fund (CDF) nearly doubling from E188 million to approximately E360 million.
“The budget has doubled… and there’s definitely going to be a lot of space there for contractors… and skills development,” he said.
In a deliberate move to decentralize economic activity, the government is expanding factory shell projects into rural areas, ensuring that jobs are created closer to where people live.
“We need to take the city to the people,” Rijkenberg said, underscoring a shift toward inclusive industrial development.
Rijkenberg concluded with a strong message of optimism, encouraging emaSwati to stay alert and proactive in identifying opportunities emerging from the budget.
“This is just the beginning… to give a heads up to those looking for jobs and opportunities where this budget could have a positive impact,” he said.
With strategic investments spanning tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, and community development, the 2026/2027 National Budget is shaping up as a catalyst for inclusive growth and national empowerment.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
