Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini’s fiscal performance for the first half of the year shows positive momentum, with improved revenue collections and strong progress in financial reforms. Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg shared the latest updates during this week’s Finance in Focus episode, outlining key developments in the Mid-Term Budget Review and the government’s current cashflow position.
Rijkenberg announced that the country had collected E7.7 billion by the end of September, an increase from E7 billion during the same period last year. He applauded the Eswatini Revenue Service for expanding the tax base without raising tax rates.
“ERA is doing this without increasing the tax burden on citizens. What we’re seeing is broader participation and stronger compliance,” he said.
Although the initial six months are traditionally slower in revenue performance, he expressed confidence that the remaining half of the year will close the gap.
“We believe the numbers will balance out. The second six months historically perform much better,” he added.
The minister also addressed temporary cashflow pressures brought on by the recently implemented salary review. Despite the strain, he offered positive news: Parliament has approved two major arrears-clearance loans, and His Majesty has signed the loan bills. Once finalized with the OPEC Fund and the African Development Bank, the funds are expected within weeks. “When these loans come in, we’ll be able to settle all arrears and significantly ease cashflow constraints,” Rijkenberg assured.
Another major highlight was the rollout of the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMAS), which is transforming government operations from paper-based processes to a transparent digital environment. Supported by experts from Rwanda, the system automates approvals and flags delays. “If someone sits on a document, the system exposes it—yellow, then orange, then red,” the minister noted, emphasizing accountability.
As the country begins crafting its next national budget, Rijkenberg acknowledged that the year ahead will be tight due to salary adjustments, but he stressed the importance of efficiency and innovation.
“We remain on track. It’s a challenging path, but a progressive one,” he concluded.
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