Africa-Press – Eswatini. Government has positioned green energy as a major economic opportunity, urging businesses to invest in renewable energy and efficiency solutions during the Earth Hour commemoration held at House on Fire on 28 March 2026.
Director of Energy Thabile Nkosi speaking on behalf of HRH Prince Lonkhokhelo, Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, during the Earth Hour 2026 commemoration organised by the Eswatini Electricity Company.
Nkosi told the business community that Eswatini’s transition to a low carbon economy offers a “triple win” of reducing costs, creating jobs and protecting the environment.
“This transition is not a burden. It is an opportunity for innovation, for investment, for job creation, and for long term energy security,” she said.
She said government has placed energy security at the centre of the development agenda, with clear targets to deliver reliable, affordable and sustainable energy while meeting commitments under the Paris Agreement. She added that the Energy Master Plan 2034 and strengthened legislative frameworks aim to unlock investment, drive innovation and support private sector participation.
Nkosi identified energy efficiency as the fastest and most cost effective way for businesses to cut expenses and improve competitiveness. “By prioritising efficiency, we reduce demand, lower costs, minimise emissions and strengthen national resilience and economic competitiveness,” she said.
She called on companies to integrate sustainability into their operations by expanding investment in solar, biomass and other clean energy solutions, while aligning with the national goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
UNDP Resident Representative Henrik Franklin said Eswatini is accelerating its shift to a low emissions, climate resilient economy, with growing investment in renewable energy expected to create jobs for youth and women.
He said the transition will also strengthen the country’s competitiveness in export markets such as the United States and the European Union, while warning that climate change continues to threaten agriculture, infrastructure and economic stability.
The event, held under the theme “The Biggest Hour for Earth”, brought together government, business and development partners to highlight climate action as both an environmental necessity and an economic opportunity.
Nkosi urged emaSwati to move beyond symbolic participation and adopt sustainable practices in how they invest, build and consume.
“Let us power change, for today, for tomorrow, and for generations to come,” she said.
