…Planning officers assess achievements and implementation challenges
BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE– The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development convened a workshop with Planning Officers to review progress made in implementing the National Development Plan (NDP) 2023/24–2024/25 and to reflect on the country’s future development priorities.
According to the Ministry, the workshop, which took place on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, brought together planners from various sectors as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination, monitor implementation and accelerate the country’s development agenda.
Officially opening the engagement, Chief Economist Sifiso Mamba welcomed participants and thanked them for attending the important national planning exercise.
Mamba encouraged continued collaboration among planners and stakeholders in driving Eswatini’s development priorities and ensuring that national programmes deliver meaningful impact for citizens.
Report highlights progress in human development
During the workshop, the Ministry’s Consultant, Nokwazi Mathabela, presented the National Development Plan Progress Report, outlining progress made towards economic recovery and sustainable livelihoods for emaSwati.
According to the report, Eswatini continues to record improvements in several human development indicators, including life expectancy, access to education and healthcare services.
The report also highlighted progress in infrastructure development and electrification programmes aimed at improving the quality of life for communities across the country.
Officials noted that these achievements reflect Government’s continued efforts to improve social services and promote inclusive development despite existing economic and environmental challenges.
Digital reforms supporting service delivery
The presentation further highlighted several reforms and initiatives that continue supporting national development and improving public service delivery.
Among the initiatives mentioned were the Government in Your Hand digital platform and the Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS), both designed to improve efficiency and accessibility of government services.
The report also acknowledged the contribution of Tinkhundla-led development initiatives and broader digital transformation efforts aimed at strengthening governance and accelerating service delivery.
Officials said digitalisation remains a critical component of Government’s strategy to modernise public administration and improve citizen access to services.
Challenges continue affecting implementation
While the report acknowledged notable progress, it also highlighted several challenges affecting the implementation of the National Development Plan.
Among the key concerns identified were climate-related shocks, unemployment and other socio-economic pressures that continue impacting development efforts.
The report stressed the importance of strengthening monitoring systems, improving partnerships and enhancing collaboration among stakeholders to ensure successful implementation of national programmes.
Officials also emphasised the need for adaptive planning strategies capable of responding to emerging economic and environmental challenges.
Workshop strengthens coordination among planners
The workshop provided an important platform for engagement, knowledge sharing and collaboration among planning officers from different sectors.
Participants actively engaged in discussions on implementation strategies, development priorities and approaches aimed at improving coordination and accountability in national planning processes.
The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development reiterated its commitment to working closely with stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the National Development Plan and the achievement of inclusive and sustainable development goals for Eswatini.
The engagement forms part of broader Government efforts to strengthen evidence-based planning and improve the effectiveness of development programmes across the country.
(Courtesy Pic)
