BY MBONO MDLULI
EZULWINI – Eswatini’s tourism sector continues to be a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s economic transformation, with Government reaffirming its commitment to creating a stable and enabling environment for investment.
This was emphasised by Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg as he addressed the Tourism Nkwe Conference 2025, held on August 21, 2025 at Sharma House in Ezulwini.
Speaking before a distinguished audience that included Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, Cabinet Ministers, regional tourism leaders, the UN Resident Co-ordinator, the Pan African Tourism Board and captains of industry, Rijkenberg shared a message of optimism grounded in Eswatini’s positive financial outlook.
The Minister revealed that the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio currently stands at 40.7%, a level he described as “healthy and sustainable,” signalling to the world that Eswatini remains a fiscally responsible nation. “This stability creates an ideal landscape for both local and international investors to confidently pour their resources into our country, particularly within the tourism sector,” he said.
Rijkenberg further reported that Eswatini’s economy is projected to grow by 7.9% in the 2025/26 financial year, following growth of 4.8% in 2024. He said this robust performance reflects increased economic activity across all sectors and is set to benefit tourism directly.
“A growing economy means more of our citizens have the means to explore the wonders of Eswatini, thereby boosting domestic tourism. It also strengthens our international standing, making our Kingdom a more attractive destination for foreign visitors seeking unique and enriching experiences,” the Minister explained.
He praised the resilience of the tourism sector, noting that its contributions go far beyond visitor numbers. “Tourism is a powerful engine for job creation, a crucial source of foreign currency, and a catalyst for the development of our rural communities. The growth we see on paper is made real by the unforgettable memories you create for visitors and the livelihoods you support for our people,” he said.
The Finance Minister also commended the Hospitality and Tourism Association of Eswatini (HOTAES) for hosting the Tourism Nkwe Conference and for their tireless efforts in promoting the Kingdom. He said that through strong partnerships between Government, the private sector and communities, Eswatini’s financial and tourism success stories would continue to complement one another.
“In conclusion, our nation’s financial health is strong. Our low debt-to-GDP ratio and positive GDP growth provide a solid foundation for continued prosperity. At the heart of this prosperity is your sector, the very essence of Eswatini’s warmth and beauty. Together, we can make our country not just a financial success story, but also a world-renowned tourism destination,” Rijkenberg concluded to warm applause.
The Tourism Nkwe Conference 2025 drew delegates from across the region, including representatives from Botswana and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as tourism players from South Africa who expressed confidence that Eswatini could emerge as a destination of choice.
