BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE– Economist Thembinkosi Dube has encouraged emaSwati to adopt smarter and more sustainable lifestyle habits to ease pressure brought by the recent increase in fuel prices.
The economist was speaking during an interview with Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS) on May 7, 2026, where he shared practical ways families can manage their finances and reduce daily expenses during the current economic climate.
He said one of the most effective ways households can save money is by establishing backyard gardens to produce vegetables at home. According to the economist, home gardening can help families reduce grocery expenses while also promoting food security.
The economist also encouraged families to embrace travelling together whenever possible instead of using separate vehicles. He said carpooling within households and among colleagues could significantly reduce fuel costs and help families stretch their budgets further.
He further advised consumers to plan shopping trips carefully by buying necessities at once rather than making several trips to town. He said proper planning could help households save both fuel and time.
In addition, Dube encouraged people to adopt energy-saving habits at home such as using LED lights, reducing unnecessary electricity usage and maintaining vehicles regularly to improve fuel efficiency. He also highlighted the importance of budgeting wisely, cooking more meals at home and avoiding unnecessary spending.
He noted that while fuel price increases present challenges, they also create an opportunity for families to embrace more disciplined financial habits and sustainable living practices.
His remarks follow the announcement by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy of new fuel prices effective Friday, May 8, 2026. Under the new adjustments, unleaded petrol (ULP 95) increased from E22.35 per litre to E25.27 per litre following a rise of E2.92. Diesel (50ppm S) increased from E25.20 per litre to E31.60 per litre after rising by E6.40, while illuminating paraffin moved from E19.50 per litre to E26.28 per litre following an increase of E6.78.
Government attributed the increases to developments in the global oil market, including rising international crude oil prices and supply disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Economic analysts have indicated that adopting practical cost-saving measures early can help households better manage the impact of rising transport and commodity prices.
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(Courtesy Pic)
