BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
LUYENGO – Eswatini has reached a major national infrastructure milestone, with 88% of the country now connected to the national electricity grid, while only 12% of communities remain unconnected, reflecting steady progress in expanding energy access and strengthening inclusive development across both urban and rural areas.
The progress was highlighted by Dr. Constance Van Zuydam, Environmental Specialist at Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC), during the MTN Bushfire Bring Your Fire Live Dialogues held at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA), Luyengo Campus, on May 19, 2026.
The achievement reflects sustained national investment in electrification projects and positions Eswatini among countries with strong electricity access levels in the region.
The dialogue was held under the theme “Powering the Future: Balancing Development, Sustainability, and Access” and brought together a multi-sector panel, held in successful collaboration with the Department of Meteorology, Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC), World Vision Eswatini, MTN Foundation, Eswatini Environment Authority, and Lungisa Energy Solutions.
Dr Constance van Zuydam said the country has made significant progress in expanding electricity access across the national grid, while also noting the continued reliance on imported power.
“As a country, we are currently sitting at an 88% access rate. This means 88% of Eswatini is now connected to the national electricity grid, while only 12% of communities remain unconnected, and we are working tirelessly to ensure that this portion of the country is also connected,” she said.
She further noted that despite this achievement, Eswatini continues to import over 70% of its electricity from neighbouring countries, while domestic generation accounts for about 30%, mainly from hydro and solar sources, including four hydro power stations and a 10-megawatt solar plant.
The dialogue highlighted that the 88% connectivity rate reflects strong infrastructure expansion and improved electricity service delivery across the country, while discussions emphasised the need to continue strengthening system reliability, efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Participants further noted the importance of aligning energy development with environmental responsibility, with emphasis on efficient resource use and climate-conscious planning.
The Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA) stressed the need to protect ecosystems alongside infrastructure growth, warning that environmental degradation can undermine climate resilience and public health.
Private sector partners including World Vision Eswatini, MTN Foundation and Lungisa Energy Solutions highlighted the growing role of innovation and collaboration in advancing clean energy solutions and supporting sustainable development initiatives.
While 88% of the country is now connected to the national electricity grid, stakeholders confirmed that efforts continue to extend access to the remaining 12% of communities, with a focus on inclusive electrification that supports education, healthcare, economic growth and digital transformation.
The Luyengo dialogue reaffirmed that Eswatini’s electricity access progress represents a major national milestone, with continued investment expected to further strengthen the country’s energy security and sustainability pathway.
The MTN Bushfire Bring Your Fire Live Dialogues continue to serve as a national platform for inclusive development and sustainability dialogue in collaboration with key government, private sector and development partners.
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