GOVT PRIORITIZES PROCUREMENT REFORM FOR 2025 GROWTH

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By Mbono Mdluli

MBABANE – Procurement inefficiencies highlighted by Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini are a top priority for government in 2025, according to Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg.

Rijkenberg expressed optimism that addressing these inefficiencies would significantly contribute to the nation’s goal of economic prosperity. As part of Eswatini’s 2023–2028 Government Policy Statement, the country has set its sights on achieving first-world status by 2030.

The minister further emphasized the importance of debt resolution.

He stated that government plans to work closely with legislators, including senators and members of parliament, to address procurement challenges and resolve outstanding debts.

Key to these efforts is the full implementation of the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) this year. Introduced in 2024, IFMIS is a web-based platform designed to enhance efficiency and accessibility in financial management. Its capabilities include planning, budgeting, procurement, debt management, and payroll, enabling seamless remote operations.

While acknowledging that 2024 had its share of challenges, Rijkenberg highlighted several successes that bode well for the future.

Among these were notable strides in economic growth, which he believes will help tackle pressing issues like poverty and unemployment.

Positive developments in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Stabilisation Fund were also noted. With a target of E1.5 billion, the fund received an initial deposit of E375 million in April 2024, and the government plans to contribute the remaining E1.125 billion in the 2024/25 financial year.

Rijkenberg celebrated Moody’s recent upgrade of Eswatini’s credit rating, describing it as a significant achievement. This development was echoed by Business Eswatini CEO E. Nathi Dlamini, who highlighted the positive impact on the private sector.

Another major milestone was Eswatini’s listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) in May 2024, raising E4 billion for vital developmental projects.

With these accomplishments in place and a renewed focus on procurement and financial efficiency, Eswatini is poised to advance its developmental goals and set the stage for a prosperous future.

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