By Sifiso Nhlabatsi
SITHOBELWENI – The African Development Bank (AfDB) has signalled that its support for Eswatini’s infrastructure development will extend beyond the E2.6 billion MR14/21 road project, with plans to explore additional investment opportunities along the transport corridor.
This was revealed by AfDB Deputy Director General for the Southern African Region, Moono Mpotola, during the official launch of the civil works for the MR14 and MR21 Road Upgrading Project at Sithobelweni on Thursday.
The launch was officiated by Russell Mmiso Dlamini, who described the project as a transformative investment that would improve connectivity, stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities for communities along the route.
Speaking on behalf of the AfDB, Mpotola reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting Eswatini’s development agenda, saying its partnership with the Kingdom goes far beyond providing finance.
“Our partnership extends beyond financing. It is a shared commitment to delivering lasting development that improves people’s lives,” she said.
She noted that the Bank would continue working with Government to identify other infrastructure opportunities that could further unlock economic potential in the areas served by the road project.
Mpotola also stressed that the project had been designed with inclusivity in mind, saying women would not be left behind in its implementation and expected benefits. She said the Bank remained committed to ensuring that development projects created opportunities for all members of society while improving livelihoods.
The MR14/21 project involves the upgrading of the Siphofaneni–Sithobelweni–Maloma–Nsoko (MR14) and Maloma–Siphambanweni (MR21) roads at a cost of E2.6 billion.
The project is expected to be completed within 36 months and will include the construction of bus shelters, pedestrian footpaths, footbridges and roadside market stalls aimed at improving safety and supporting local economic activity.
In his address, Prime Minister Dlamini expressed Government’s appreciation to the African Development Bank for financing the landmark infrastructure project.
He thanked the Bank’s leadership and technical team for their continued trust and collaboration with the Kingdom, while also acknowledging the Ministry of Public Works and Transport for its leadership in driving infrastructure development.
The Prime Minister further challenged the joint venture comprising Stefanutti Stocks, WBHO and Cheil Engineering to deliver a world-class project on schedule and within budget.
“The nation expects nothing less than world-class quality works, delivered on time and within budget,” he said before officially declaring the civil works for the MR14 and MR21 Road Upgrading Project launched.
Government believes the road will strengthen transport links between Siphofaneni, Sithobelweni, Maloma, Nsoko and Siphambanweni, improve access to markets and services, and contribute to economic growth in the country’s southern corridor while creating jobs during construction.
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