By Mbongeni Ndlela
MBABANE – 2025 is shaping up to be a defining year in Eswatini’s modern development story.
Across every region, from the hills of Hhohho to the plains of Lubombo, transformational projects are reshaping lives, connecting homes, and securing the nation’s future.
Electrification, clean energy, vital infrastructure, and strategic reserves are no longer distant promises; they are happening now.
This feature highlights the groundbreaking government-led initiatives that are lighting up communities, fueling national resilience, and bringing prosperity closer to every Liswati.
- ASCENT Eswatini: Powering 50 000 Homes
Launched in February 2025, the ASCENT Eswatini initiative is a five-year programme that will connect 50 000 households (approximately 200 000 citizens) to reliable electricity through both grid and off-grid solutions. With a funding package of US$100 million (E1.81 billion) from the World Bank—including a US$39 million (E705.5 million) grant and a US$51 million loan (E922.5 million)—this project targets universal access by 2030.
- 2025 Highlights: Mapping, household surveys, and installation of solar mini-grids in Hhohho and Manzini.
“This initiative is about the people of Eswatini… ensuring every Liswati has access to electricity,” said Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla.
- Edwaleni Solar Power Station: 100MW of Clean Energy
Located near Matsapha, the Edwaleni Solar Plant is poised to become Eswatini’s largest solar-battery energy project. Developed by Frazium Energy, the site will deploy 75 000 solar panels and deliver up to 100MW of clean energy into the national grid.
- Construction: Ongoing since 2021, full commissioning expected in late 2025.
- Impact: Reduces dependency on electricity imports and supports the Southern African Power Pool.
- Strategic Oil Reserve: National Energy Security
In April 2025, His Majesty the King unveiled the model of the Phuzumoya Strategic Oil Reserve in Lubombo. Designed to store 80 million litres of fuel (40 million each for diesel and petrol), the reserve aims to provide a 60 to 90-day national buffer during global energy disruptions.
- Funding: Backed by an E5.2 billion loan from the Taiwan Eximbank.
- Timeline: Construction ongoing; full completion expected by 2028.
- Perspective: MP Sabelo Mtsetfwa noted, “This project may look expensive now, but it could make Eswatini an oil hub tomorrow.
- Rural Infrastructure Projects: Schools, Bridges & Homes
Through the Regional Development Fund (RDF) and Microprojects Programme, the Government of Eswatini is actively uplifting rural areas. Over 100 infrastructure projects are underway in 2025, covering:
- Education: Classrooms, kitchens, staff houses (e.g., Sibuyeni, Bhunya, St Paul’s).
- Community Services: Bridges, water tanks, clinics, latrines.
- Livelihoods: TLBs, tractors, livestock projects, and income-generating cooperatives.
“The RDF has already completed over 288 projects, benefiting thousands,” said Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg.
- Regional Reach and Impact
- Hhohho & Manzini: Early ASCENT rollouts, Edwaleni Solar, microgrid installations.
- Lubombo: Oil reserve construction, solar pilot sites.
- Shiselweni: Household electrification, agricultural empowerment projects.
- All Regions: RDF and Microprojects creating local jobs and enhancing services.
- Visuals and Statistics
- Electricity Access: Now at 86.4%, up from 82% in 2023.
- RDF Impact: 17 completed projects in early 2025 benefited 1,228 people and created 119 jobs.
- Energy Outlook: Eswatini set to generate 100MW solar, 40MW citizen-fed mini-grids, and secure national fuel supply.
Conclusion: A Brighter Tomorrow
From the glow of solar-powered bulbs in rural classrooms to the deep reserves of national energy storage, Eswatini’s government is delivering impactful, people-first solutions. These projects speak to a shared national goal: prosperity, sustainability, and dignity for every Liswati. 2025 is not just a year of plans; it is a year of power, progress, and purpose.
Eswatini Positive News will continue to spotlight these milestones and share stories from people experiencing transformation firsthand. Stay connected as we journey together toward a brighter, electrified future.
