By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – A speech delivered by His Majesty King Mswati III in Zambia in 2023 has inspired a Zambian company to invest approximately E893 357 000 (US$50 million) in setting up a renewable energy factory in Eswatini.
Savenda Electronics Limited plans to establish the factory in the country, according to Joo Chunga, a representative of the company. The investment is expected to create about 400 jobs. Speaking on Eswatini TV’s Kusile Breakfast Show, Chunga stated that they have already secured markets in South Africa, Mozambique, and Madagascar.
Chunga explained that His Majesty the King was invited as an official guest to the 2023 Zambia International Trade Fair, where he encouraged Zambian businesses to consider investing in Eswatini. Following the King’s address, Savenda began working with relevant stakeholders to explore investment opportunities in the Kingdom.
He revealed that the company aims to establish a “three-in-one” manufacturing facility that will produce renewable energy solutions, including smart water meters, smart electricity meters, solar panels, and other related products. Chunga emphasized that Eswatini’s strategic location—close to both South Africa and Mozambique—makes it ideal for such an operation.
“We have a huge market in Maputo, Mozambique,” said Chunga, “and by being in Eswatini, we’ll be very close to that city. From Mozambique, it will also be easier to reach Madagascar, where we also have a market.” He added that Eswatini’s access to South Africa, the country’s largest trading partner, was another important factor.
Regarding timelines, Chunga stated that the first phase of the project is scheduled to begin next month, with the second phase expected to roll out by the end of the year. He said the company is looking to work with individuals who have technical and IT skills. However, youth with only high school education are also welcome, as long as they are trainable and willing to undergo necessary training to become productive members of the workforce.
