By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – Eswatini’s development agenda is gaining momentum.
Just halfway through the 2025/26 financial year, the government has already disbursed E2.98 billion, representing 41 percent of the E7.2 billion annual capital budget. This strong mid-year performance signals a renewed drive to fast-track infrastructure development, enhance service delivery, and create jobs across the country.
According to the Ministry of Finance’s Budget Performance Report, the pace of capital spending reflects government’s determination to accelerate key national projects that support economic growth and improve the lives of citizens.
Strong Performance Across Key Ministries
Several ministries have recorded impressive capital budget releases.
- Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Home Affairs, and Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs received their full capital allocations, demonstrating efficient project execution and prioritization.
- The Royal Eswatini Police Service saw 97% of its annual capital budget disbursed, totaling E83.9 million.
- The Ministry of Health followed closely, with 99% of its budget released (E128.6 million)—a clear sign of government’s commitment to strengthening health infrastructure and services.
Energy and Infrastructure Take Centre Stage
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy emerged as the top recipient, securing E927 million, or 64% of its capital budget. These funds are powering major energy and water infrastructure projects designed to improve energy security and ensure sustainable resource management.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, a key driver of infrastructure development, recorded E351.5 million in capital releases (28% of its budget), reflecting ongoing construction and maintenance projects nationwide.
The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development received E858 million, or 47% of its allocation, supporting various national development and monitoring programmes. The Ministry of Finance also posted a solid performance, with E74.5 million released, covering 83% of its capital expenditure plan.
Accelerating National Development
The Ministry of Finance emphasized that while capital expenditure is on track, additional efforts are being made to ensure timely project implementation and avoid underutilization of funds. This aligns with the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP), which focuses on strategic investments in infrastructure, energy, health, and education to drive long-term national development.
A Positive Outlook
Mid-year data highlights Eswatini’s infrastructure-led growth strategy, prioritizing sectors that stimulate economic activity and enhance social welfare. Analysts view the strong spending in energy, public works, and health as a balanced approach to fostering growth and building resilience.
If this positive trend continues, Eswatini is well-positioned to meet or surpass its 2025/26 capital project targets, a testament to improved budget execution and a development-focused fiscal policy.
(
Courtesy Pic)
