Africa-Press – Eswatini. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) announced a donation of US$5.4 million (approximately E97.2 million) aimed at implementing programs focused on environmental protection in Eswatini.
The announcement was made on June 5, 2025, during the World Environment Day commemoration at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini. The event was under the theme: “Ending Plastic Pollution.”
Key Highlights from the Event
– Attendees: The event was attended by several dignitaries, including:
– Minister of Housing and Urban Development Apollo Maphalala
– Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development Sikhumbuzo Dlamini
– Senator Lorraine Nxumalo
UNDP’s Message:
UNDP Eswatini Resident Representative Henrik Franklin emphasised the ongoing crisis of plastic pollution, describing it as a “slow, silent crisis” that poses a risk to biodiversity, human health, and economic growth.
Project Announcement
The donation supports a new initiative, endorsed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), titled:
“Reduced Risks to Human Health and the Environment through Reduction of POPs and U-POPs in Eswatini.”
– Funding Breakdown:
– Total: $5.4 million (E97.2 million)
– USD 4.9 million for investment (E87.3 million)
– USD 0.5 million for administrative fees (E9 million)
Project Objectives
The initiative targets three major waste streams:
Plastic waste
Healthcare waste
Electronic waste
Key actions include:
– Implementing household-level plastic waste sorting and collection in at least two regions.
– Introducing non-burn treatment technologies for healthcare waste.
– Supporting the phase-out of mercury in the health sector.
– Promoting green businesses and recycling models, especially those led by women and youth.
– Developing a take-back programme for electronics to manage toxic waste.
– Updating laws and enforcement systems to sustain progress.
Importance of the Initiative
Franklin highlighted that the project aligns with the theme of World Environment Day by establishing systems and community-led actions necessary to combat plastic pollution. He underscored the importance of making smart choices for long-term investment in sustainable growth.
Closing Remarks
As the event concluded, Franklin called for collective action to address plastic pollution, urging all stakeholders to work together in creating a cleaner, healthier future. The commitment from UNDP to partner with Eswatini reflects a shared vision for sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
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