BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE– Forests in Eswatini are increasingly being recognised not just as green cover, but as engines of wealth, jobs, and community pride.
A recent workshop in Shiselweni has equipped local leaders with the tools to harness these natural resources for economic growth.
The workshop, held at Hilton Garden Hotel, brought together chiefs from across the Shiselweni region and was hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, represented by Mandla Tshawuka, Minister of Agriculture. The programme received E7 million in funding from the World Bank and focused on sustainable forest management, tree planting, and developing profitable enterprises from forest products.
“Forests can do more than provide timber or firewood — they can create livelihoods, skills, and opportunities for our youth and women,” said Tshawuka. “Through this programme, chiefs are learning how to guide their communities in responsibly harnessing forest resources while generating economic benefits.”
A key session was led by the Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC), which presented the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP 3.0). Dr Wisdom Dlamini highlighted how protecting wetlands, rivers, and forests directly supports local industries such as agriculture and tourism. For instance, catchment areas around Malolotja Nature Reserve supply nearly 20% of the water used in Eswatini’s sugarcane industry, demonstrating that biodiversity is a critical economic asset.
Chiefs also received guidance on zoning, sustainable grazing, and community-led forest enterprises. The Ministry emphasised training for local farmers on value chains for timber and non-timber forest products, including bark harvesting, beekeeping, and weaving. Women and youth are expected to be the primary beneficiaries, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive economic growth.
Regional Administrator Themba Masuku welcomed the participants, stating:
“The country’s development rests in the hands of chiefs. By equipping you with knowledge on forests, biodiversity, and economic opportunities, we ensure that communities prosper while our natural heritage is preserved.”
The workshop successfully integrated culture, conservation, and economic planning, positioning forests as both ecological and economic infrastructure. By the conclusion of the programme, participants will be equipped to generate employment, promote local entrepreneurship, and safeguard Eswatini’s forests for future generations.
