BY NOMTHANDAZO MAYISELA (INTERN)
MBABANE – As climate change continues to affect livelihoods, from farming to water supply, Eswatini is strengthening how it tracks and responds to these challenges through improved reporting systems, backed by a project worth about E23 million.
Stakeholders gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn on 30 April 2026 for the inception workshop of the Second Biennial Transparency Report and Fifth National Communication, key national processes that guide how the country measures and reports climate progress.
The initiative, which began in 2024 and runs over a 48-month period, is supported by the Global Environment Facility with an investment of about E23 million (USD 1.23 million). It reflects Eswatini’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, particularly the Enhanced Transparency Framework, which strengthens how countries report climate actions.
Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane said the transition marks a major shift in how the country approaches climate reporting. “This transition is not only symbolic, it represents a significant change in how we intend to manage climate risks,” she said.
She explained that the country is moving from traditional reporting systems to a more proactive approach focused on risk, early warning and resilience, with the next submission expected in December 2026.
Acting Principal Secretary Duduzile Nhlengetfwa Masina highlighted the importance of partnerships, noting that collaboration with institutions such as universities will strengthen the quality of data collected. “We are doing this work, but we are not doing it alone,” he said.
Officials stressed that accurate data across sectors such as energy, agriculture, water and forestry is critical in shaping policies that directly impact communities. The process is expected to improve decision-making, attract climate finance and ensure development efforts respond to real challenges on the ground.
As Eswatini advances its climate reporting, the focus remains on building a transparent system that protects lives, livelihoods and the future of its people.
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