Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini’s journey to universal electricity access by 2030 received a significant boost today as Members of Parliament approved Loan Bills amounting to E1.734 billion.
This landmark decision will help extend electricity to an estimated 50 000 households, transforming the lives of nearly 200 000 people.
Passed in the House of Assembly on May 26, 2025, the two Loan Bills empower Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg to secure crucial funding from global partners. One Bill authorizes him to secure up to €37 million (about E752 million) from the International Development Association. The second Bill grants permission to secure a loan of up to €48.3 million (about E982 million) from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Chairperson of the Ministry of Finance Portfolio Committee, Lobamba Lomdzala MP Marwick Khumalo, passionately motivated fellow MPs to adopt the report on the Bills, supported by Mafutseni MP Sabelo Mtsetfwa. Khumalo emphasized the positive impact of the Bills: electrification of 15 000 rural households in the next five years, using innovative ready boards that bring power without the need for direct grid connections.
Highlighting the country’s remarkable progress, Khumalo shared that Eswatini now stands at 88% electricity access. The new funding aims to close the final gap and ensure every Emaswati household can benefit from clean, reliable energy.
The loans, repayable over 30 years in 60 semi-annual installments, come with a 10-year grace period, giving Eswatini room to grow its economy and strengthen communities before repayment begins. This investment, while adding to the nation’s E36.8 billion debt and a debt-to-GDP ratio of 41.2%, is widely seen as a necessary step for inclusive development.
MPs including Shawnette Henwood (Shiselweni I), Lindiwe Mamba (Shiselweni Region), Alec Lushaba (Hhukwini), Allen Vilane (Madlangemphisi), Nomkhosi Masuku (Ludzeludze), Joseph Souza (Lugongolweni), Deputy Speaker Madala Mhlanga (Mhlangatane), Bhekithemba Bhembe (Shiselweni II), Sicelo Jele (LaMgabhi), and Manzi Zwane (Nhlambeni) all lent their voices in support. They hailed the Bills as essential for the wellbeing of Emaswati and a brighter, more empowered future.
With Parliament’s backing, these loan agreements pave the way for a more electrified Eswatini—one connection, one family, and one community at a time.
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