Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Kingdom of Eswatini marked a pivotal and celebratory moment in its national development with the official launch of the project site for the 20MW Tsamela Solar PV Plant in Nduma, Motshane.
The landmark event, hosted by the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA), signifies a bold and determined step towards achieving energy security and sustainable development, aiming to drastically reduce the nation’s reliance on imported electricity.
The site launch, which officially commenced on December 5, 2025, was a convergence of national leadership, industry experts, and an eager local community. The commissioning ceremony was highlighted by the formal unveiling of the commemorative plaque by Prince Lonkhokhela, Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, Princess Sibahle, and Acting Chief Princess Salaphi of Nduma. This collective act of royalty and local leadership formally inaugurates the start of construction for a project of immense national significance.
In a powerful message directed at the host community, Prince Lonkhokhela underscored the critical role of local stewardship. The Minister specifically urged the residents of Nduma to safeguard the solar plant against theft and vandalism, stating:
“I argue the community of Nduma to safeguard this solar plant against theft and vandalism, since it is your own project and your ultimate asset. Its protection ensures that the benefits of national energy security and local development continue for generations.”
The Minister’s words firmly position the community as the primary custodians of this major national investment. The local leadership, represented by Acting Chief Princess Salaphi of Nduma, expressed her profound excitement and pride that the area is hosting the project, recognizing the positive future it brings to the region.
This excitement was also shared by Wilton Nkambulo, the Member of Parliament for Motshane, who conveyed his satisfaction that such a critical national asset is situated within his constituency, highlighting the anticipated local development opportunities.
ESERA CEO, Skhumbuzo Tsabedze, emphasised that the launch affirms the crucial step that the Kingdom is fully embarked on its journey to extract electricity with the sunlight. This 20MW capacity is central to Eswatini’s strategy to diversify its energy mix and bolster national stability by significantly reducing dependence on external power sources.
Providing key details on the project’s development schedule and economic benefits, Richard Gordon, Director of Anthem (the project developer, formerly African Clean Energy Development ACED), confirmed the immediate plans. Gordon announced that the construction phase will commence early 2026 and is estimated to last for a period of 18 months. The total cost of the project is projected to be E500 000 (five hundred thousand Emalangeni), representing a major injection of foreign direct investment into Eswatini’s infrastructure.
Critically, the project will also deliver immediate socioeconomic benefits through job creation. Gordon confirmed that the construction phase is projected to provide job opportunities, with over 150 citizens of Eswatini to benefit from jobs. This focus on local employment reinforces the commitment to shared prosperity alongside the pursuit of clean energy goals.
The 20MW Tsamela Solar PV Plant is thus not just an energy facility; it is a catalyst for economic empowerment and a testament to Eswatini’s resolute commitment to a cleaner, more secure energy future. The project stands as a cornerstone of Eswatini’s long-term energy master plan, promising a brighter, more sustainable future for the entire nation.
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