BY MBONO MDLULI
LOBAMBA – The Eswatini government has allocated E1.12 billion for the comprehensive revamping of the country’s road infrastructure.
This initiative was announced during the Budget Speech by Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg on February 14, 2025.
Allocation of Funds
The budget breakdown for the road revamp is as follows:
– E371.67 million: Road maintenance and major rehabilitation
– E636.12 million: Construction of new roads
– E200 million: Surfacing of rural roads
– E30 million: Microprojects for concreting rural roads
This totals to E1.21 billion allocated to the roads program, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure.
Recent Developments
One notable achievement is the opening of the Nhlangano–Sicunusa road (MR13) in 2024, which faced disruptions during its initial implementation. The government aims to ensure year-round accessibility, especially in rural areas, which is vital for economic development and connectivity.
Ongoing Initiatives
The government is pursuing a phased approach to upgrading roads, with significant improvements noted on:
– Siphocosini-Motshane road (D78)
– Siteki-Tikhuba road (D12)
Additionally, the Roads Authority Act (2023) aims to enhance road infrastructure maintenance by establishing a dedicated Roads Authority.
Funding Mechanism
Starting March 1, 2025, an additional 40 cents will be added to the fuel price to fund the operations of the Road Agency Fund, facilitating better maintenance of national, regional, and local road infrastructures.
Attention to Government Buildings
The government’s focus extends beyond roads; there is a recognized need to address the poor state of Government Buildings. An inclusive approach is being adopted to ensure proper maintenance, preserving both integrity and value for users and custodians alike.
