BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Eswatini is taking proactive steps to strengthen its energy sector through international partnerships, leveraging technical assistance and funding opportunities from the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) and Korea-Africa relations programs.
The Hono’rable Minister HRH Prince Lonkhokhela met with Eswatini’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Menzie Dlamini, earlier this week to discuss strategies that will enable the Kingdom to benefit from these initiatives.
The discussions follow the TICAD 9 conference held in Japan in August 2025, which highlighted collaborative approaches to sustainable development across Africa, particularly in the energy sector.
During the meeting, the Honourable Minister and Ambassador agreed on the need for a coordinated approach to identify and access available opportunities. This led to the establishment of a multi-sectoral committee chaired by Ms Thabile Nkosi, Director of Energy at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy. The committee comprises representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC), and the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development.
The newly formed committee will undertake a thorough assessment of support programs offered through TICAD and Korea-Africa partnerships. Its primary responsibility will be to prepare and submit proposals that align with Eswatini’s energy development priorities. Committee members are expected to meet regularly, ensuring that proposals are comprehensive, timely, and in line with international requirements. Progress updates will be submitted to the Honourable Minister for guidance and further action.
This initiative reflects Eswatini’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and strengthening its global partnerships. By tapping into international expertise and funding, the Kingdom aims to enhance energy access, support national development plans, and contribute to regional energy security.
The collaboration with TICAD and Korea-Africa programs is expected to open doors for technical knowledge transfer, investment, and innovation, positioning Eswatini as an active participant in Africa’s energy transformation agenda.
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