Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini continues to make significant progress in strengthening the country’s energy and natural resource sectors, as part of its broader vision to achieve sustainable development, economic growth and improved quality of life for all citizens.
In line with Government’s commitment to achieving universal access to safe and clean water by 2030, strategic partnerships have been forged to expand water infrastructure across the country. Working in collaboration with World Vision, Government has embarked on the construction and extension of piped water systems in 18 tinkhundla. This initiative is expected to greatly improve access to potable water, particularly in rural communities, while enhancing public health and socio-economic development.
Significant progress has also been made in strengthening national energy security. Construction works have commenced on the long-anticipated strategic fuel reserve facility, which will have an initial storage capacity of 80 million litres, equivalent to 60 days of national fuel supply. This project marks a major milestone in ensuring fuel availability, enhancing energy security and cushioning the country against supply disruptions.
In parallel, Government is finalising discussions with the Republic of South Africa for a new 10-year power purchase agreement. This agreement will reinforce electricity supply stability while supporting long-term planning for industrial growth and economic expansion.
As part of the “Nkwe” Programme of Action, Government continues to prioritise universal access to electricity. Through the Rural Electrification Access Fund (REAF), Phases 3 and 4 have been successfully completed, extending electricity to approximately 2 900 communities across the country. These efforts have significantly improved living standards, enhanced economic opportunities and supported social development in rural areas.
Further strengthening energy access, the Shiselweni Network Reinforcement and Access Project connected about 6 000 households to the national grid, while an additional 1 200 households were electrified through ready-board connections. These initiatives have helped bridge the urban-rural divide and stimulated local economic activity.
To diversify the national energy mix, Government signed a 40-megawatt power purchase agreement with Ubombo Sugar and launched the 75MW Anthem Tsamela Solar Project. Together with other renewable energy initiatives, these projects are expected to position Eswatini as a net energy producer by 2028, ensuring sustainable and reliable power for future generations.
Through these strategic investments, Government continues to lay a strong foundation for energy security, economic resilience and inclusive national development.
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