BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE– Eswatini has allocated E6.13 million for follow-up mineral surveys and feasibility studies as the country steps up efforts to explore its mineral wealth and attract investment into the mining sector.
The allocation will support further investigation of mineral targets identified through the country’s geological survey programme, with the findings expected to help establish the potential for future mining projects.
The development comes as Eswatini Solid Minerals Company prepares to participate in the National Mining Companies Forum during African Mining Week 2026, scheduled for October 14 to 16 in Cape Town, South Africa.
According to a report published by Energy Capital & Power on October 2, 2026, Eswatini will use the international mining platform to showcase opportunities in its mining industry, including coal, gold, iron ore and other mineral resources.
The forum will bring together state-owned mining companies, investors and industry stakeholders to discuss strategies for mobilising capital, developing commercially viable projects and strengthening Africa’s participation in the mineral value chain.
Eswatini’s participation provides an opportunity to present its mineral prospects to potential investors and technical partners while exploring partnerships that could support further geological investigations and mining development.
The E6.13 million allocation highlights the importance of exploration and feasibility work in determining whether identified mineral deposits can be developed into commercially sustainable mining operations.
Such studies are important in establishing the extent and quality of mineral resources, assessing technical requirements and examining the financial viability of proposed projects before major investments are made.
Eswatini’s mineral development ambitions include coal, gold and iron ore, resources that could create opportunities for investment, employment and economic activity if viable deposits are developed responsibly.
The foreign industry report also highlighted government plans, announced in July, to work with a mining partner on formal gold extraction. Under the reported plan, gold produced domestically would be purchased by the State and held as part of the country’s national reserves.
This initiative, alongside the exploration allocation, forms part of the broader effort to establish a stronger foundation for the country’s mining industry.
The planned participation of Eswatini Solid Minerals Company at African Mining Week will place the country’s mining ambitions before an audience of investors, mining companies and other stakeholders interested in opportunities across Africa.
The National Mining Companies Forum is expected to examine how state-owned mining institutions can attract investment, establish partnerships and advance projects from geological potential to commercial development.
Discussions will also address financing, investment readiness, critical minerals, regional value chains and mineral beneficiation, which involves processing minerals to increase the value retained in producing countries.
For Eswatini, the opportunity extends beyond promoting its mineral resources. Engagement with international investors and industry experts could help identify technical expertise, financing options and partnerships needed to advance exploration and evaluate future mining projects.
However, the E6.13 million allocated for surveys and feasibility work should not be confused with funding for the construction or operation of a mine. Further technical assessments will be necessary to determine which mineral targets can support viable commercial operations.
African Mining Week 2026 will be held under the theme “Mining the Future: Unearthing Africa’s Full Mineral Value.” The event is intended to connect mining stakeholders and investors while encouraging the development of Africa’s mineral resources and greater value addition within the continent.
Eswatini’s participation will therefore provide a platform to communicate its exploration priorities, present investment opportunities and engage potential partners as the country seeks to establish the commercial potential of its mineral resources.
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(Courtesy Pic)
