Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini has officially confirmed the receipt of US $5.1 million, equivalent to approximately E87.8 million, under a cooperation arrangement with the United States, a development that significantly strengthens the nation’s border-management and migration-control capabilities.
Government Sets the Record Straight During Mid-Term Budget Review
During the Ministry of Finance’s Mid-Term Budget Review in Parliament yesterday, Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg openly clarified the status of the funds. He confirmed that government has indeed received the money and immediately began steps to ensure its correct handling, transparency, and alignment with national legislation.
Rijkenberg emphasised that no funds will be spent outside proper procedure, and the entire amount will be channelled through the Consolidated Fund, where Parliament will exercise full oversight through the statutory appropriation process.
A Boost for Eswatini’s Border-Management Capacity
The US$5.1 million package is earmarked for initiatives that will strengthen Eswatini’s border-control systems, improve migration-management infrastructure, and reinforce national security. This includes modernised border systems, enhanced migration frameworks, improved oversight capacity, and strong long-term institutional resilience.
Transparency and Accountability at the Forefront
The Minister reiterated government’s commitment to strict financial discipline, assuring MPs that the NDMA or any agency cannot spend unappropriated funds, and that all receipts will undergo parliamentary scrutiny. He assured the nation that the ministry will ‘clean up’ any irregularities to ensure compliance with the law.
A Win for National Interests
The government’s confirmation and clear outline of next steps demonstrates its commitment to protecting national interests, advancing security and development, ensuring transparent handling of international cooperation funds, and strengthening systems for long-term benefit.
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