Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Kingdom of Eswatini is bringing the national budget closer to its citizens than ever before.
This September, the Ministry of Finance will embark on a nationwide consultation drive, known as Budget to the People, ensuring EmaSwati’s voices directly shape the country’s financial priorities for 2026.
Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg announced that beginning September 10th in Manzini, and continuing across all four regions, government teams will engage Bucopho, community leaders, and development committees to gather real input from the people.
“This process is about making the budget reflective of the true needs of emaSwati,” Rijkenberg explained. “Last year, we held high-level meetings. This year, we are going deeper into communities so that citizens can truly influence the budget that affects their daily lives.” He further encouraged Emaswati to send suggestions via the ministry’s official online platforms.
Reforms Strengthening Eswatini’s Global Standing
While listening to citizens at home, the Finance Minister is also leading internationally. This week, Rijkenberg travels to Addis Ababa for the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (Selmalug) summit. Eswatini has been working hard to improve its financial governance after previously passing only 14 of 40 required compliance standards.
Through reforms spearheaded by Parliament, Cabinet, and His Majesty King Mswati III, the nation has made dramatic progress.
“We now believe Eswatini will pass at least 14, if not all 15, of the current review measures,” Rijkenberg noted confidently.
Facing Regional Uncertainty with Confidence
The Minister also reassured Emaswati amid concerns over possible U.S. sanctions against South Africa. While acknowledging Eswatini’s deep economic ties with its neighbour, he reminded citizens that history shows resilience: during South Africa’s sanctions era before 1994, Eswatini recorded some of its highest growth levels.
“Even if shocks come, it will not mean doom and gloom for our nation,” he said.
“Eswatini has a way of adapting and thriving, even in challenging times.”
A Future Shaped Together
From community halls in rural Eswatini to high-level meetings in Addis Ababa, the Kingdom is writing a new chapter of accountability, inclusion, and resilience. Budget to the People is more than a consultation exercise, it is a promise that national development begins with listening to citizens and delivering on their priorities.
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