BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – Eswatini is entering an exciting new phase of economic opportunity, with strategic investments, strong financial governance, and citizen-focused reforms positioning the country for sustained growth, Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg has announced.
Speaking during the latest Finance in Focus address, the Minister outlined key developments shaping the economy, highlighting the completion of the International Convention Centre (ICC), proactive financial oversight, and expanded access to government services as major milestones.
At the centre of this progress is the newly completed ICC, which the Minister described as a transformative national asset.
“When we opened it, one could see it was an absolute world-class facility… we really believe it’s now going to start paying back,” he said.
He emphasised that the facility is expected to significantly boost tourism and position Eswatini as a leading destination for international conferences.
“Because it’s so beautiful, I think there’s going to be a huge demand for conferences to be held here… we can now box above our weight,” he added.
The shift from heavy investment into the ICC toward revenue generation marks a turning point, with the project set to contribute meaningfully to economic growth.
Beyond infrastructure, the Minister addressed public concerns around financial integrity, offering strong reassurance about Eswatini’s global standing. He highlighted the country’s swift action against emerging financial crimes as evidence of robust systems.
“The fact that we have caught these things out… proves that we are doing the right thing… we should actually be able to go up in our ratings,” he said.
On fiscal policy, the Minister clarified ongoing discussions around sugar taxation, noting the importance of balancing public health considerations with protecting a key national industry.
“Sugar isn’t bad for you… it’s too much sugar that’s bad for you,” he said, adding that any policy would carefully target excessive consumption rather than undermine the sector.
Government is also actively managing global economic pressures, particularly rising fuel and fertiliser costs linked to international developments. A stabilisation fund is already in place to cushion citizens from fuel price shocks.
“The cushion can last for quite a while… to help Eswatini not to have that full impact of that fuel price,” he explained.
At the same time, engagement with the African Development Bank is underway to address fertiliser cost increases and safeguard agricultural productivity.
In a move to bring services closer to the people, the Minister announced a major decentralisation milestone: all post offices across the country are now equipped to process tax and commerce-related payments.
“All the post offices… are now open to be able to do all of the tax payments… so hopefully one doesn’t have to come to the major centres,” he said.
This initiative is expected to improve efficiency, reduce travel costs, and enhance productivity for emaSwati.
Overall, the Minister’s address paints a picture of a resilient and forward-looking economy, anchored by strategic investments, responsive governance, and a clear commitment to inclusive growth.
