BY MBONGENI NDLELA
LOBAMBA- Every morning, small business owners lift their shutters hoping for more customers. Young graduates scroll through job listings searching for opportunity. Parents quietly pray that tomorrow will be better than today. This year’s economic figures bring encouraging news for all of them.
Eswatini’s economy grew by 5.6% in 2025, with growth projected at 5.2% in 2026, according to Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg.
Presenting the 2026/27 Budget, the Minister signalled a major shift in direction for the economy. He told Parliament that this Budget marks a transition from stability to acceleration and described it as pro-growth, pro-discipline and pro-investment.
Over recent years, government prioritised strengthening reserves, improving debt management and restoring investor confidence. Those reforms are now translating into tangible results. Construction expanded by 17.1%, wholesale and retail trade grew by 9.7%, and the ICT sector surged by 38.2%.
Major infrastructure projects, including the Mpakeni Dam, renewable energy plants and digital investments, are driving this expansion. Despite global uncertainty, trade tensions and climate challenges, the Minister reassured the nation of Eswatini’s determination to move forward with clarity and courage.
Stronger economic growth improves government revenue, strengthens debt sustainability and creates space for more investment in education, health and rural development. For ordinary emaSwati, these figures are not just statistics. They represent expanding job prospects, stronger local businesses and improved public services. The message is clear: the economy is accelerating with purpose.
