BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – In a world where energy access determines economic opportunities, healthcare quality, and social development, Eswatini is making bold strides to bridge the energy gap.
Principal Secretary (PS) Lindiwe Mbingo took center stage at the Sustainable Energy Week (SEW) in Botswana, advocating for off-grid renewable energy as a game-changer in transforming lives and livelihoods across the Kingdom.
Speaking on a panel titled “Energy for Development: The Critical Role of Off-Grid Renewables in Empowering Lives and Livelihoods, “Mbingo outlined Eswatini’s ambitious vision to achieve universal electricity access by 2030.
With 88% of the country already electrified, she emphasised that reaching the remaining 12%, mainly rural and remote communities, requires innovative off-grid solutions such as mini-grids and solar home systems.
Lighting up the last mile
For decades, expanding electricity to remote areas has been a costly challenge, but Eswatini is proving that renewable energy is the future of universal electrification. Mbingo revealed that government has launched pilot mini-grid projects and solar-powered home systems to accelerate energy access in hard-to-reach areas. These efforts enhance rural livelihoods and reduce dependence on expensive fossil fuels, making electricity more affordable and sustainable.
Further extending this impact, government has introduced solar-powered water pumping schemes to address clean water shortages in rural areas.
“Access to clean water should never be a luxury,” stated Mbingo, emphasizing how these projects improve health, reduce household costs, and promote climate resilience.
Powering hospitals and saving lives
Electricity is a lifeline for the healthcare sector, and Eswatini is ensuring no hospital or clinic is left behind. Mbingo proudly shared Eswatini’s recent partnership with UNICEF Eswatini to install solar PV systems in rural and urban health facilities. This move is already making an impact—enhancing energy reliability, reducing operational costs, and ensuring critical services continue uninterrupted even during power outages.
Agriculture and business: the renewable energy revolution
The role of renewable energy in boosting agricultural productivity and economic empowerment was another focal point.
Mbingo highlighted Eswatini’s recent launch of the “Catalysing Renewable Energy Access and Transition in Eswatini” project. This initiative aims to empower smallholder farmers, MSMEs, women, and youth by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to access renewable energy financing.
With agriculture being the backbone of rural livelihoods, she stressed how solar-powered irrigation and renewable energy solutions are reducing reliance on erratic rainfall and high electricity costs, leading to greater food security and increased incomes.
A call for smarter energy policies
While Eswatini accelerates its shift to off-grid renewables, Mbingo emphasized the need for strong policy frameworks to support innovation and sustainability. She called for regional collaboration within the SADC bloc to ensure renewable energy adoption is not only widespread but also environmentally responsible.
“As we deploy more solar panels and batteries, we must think about their end-of-life management,” she cautioned, stressing the importance of proper waste disposal policies to prevent future environmental risks.
Eswatini’s leadership in the energy transition
With a clear vision and practical action plans, Eswatini is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy adoption in Africa. By harnessing the power of off-grid solutions, the country is not just closing the energy gap but also paving the way for economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability.
Mbingo’s powerful presentation at SEW 2025 reaffirmed Eswatini’s commitment to clean energy, inclusive growth, and a brighter future for all. As the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, Eswatini is proving that innovation, investment, and strong leadership can turn ambitious energy goals into reality.
(Pics: Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy Eswatini)
