BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
LOZITHA – His Majesty King Mswati III has expressed that he wished Eswatini’s Strategic Fuel Reserve Facility was completed years ago, saying the project would have provided much-needed protection for the country amid rising fuel prices.
The King made the remarks on Thursday when he received the Letters of Credence of Taiwan Ambassador-designate Ching-Lin Tsuei at Lozitha Royal Palace.
Speaking about Taiwan’s support for the project, His Majesty said the strategic reserve had come at an important time, particularly as fuel prices continued to rise.
“Only one wishes if only we had finished this some years back,” the King said.
The Strategic Fuel Reserve Facility is being constructed at Phuzumoya with Taiwan’s support and is intended to strengthen Eswatini’s fuel security by providing a buffer when the country faces disruptions in fuel imports. The facility is designed to hold 80 million litres, equivalent to an initial 60-day fuel reserve.
His Majesty said that although the project had taken time to materialise, construction was now underway and would provide important support to Emaswati once completed.
“But anyway, now it’s been in the process of being constructed. I’m sure it will provide the necessary support to all the people of this country, and we appreciate very much their support,” he said.
The King described the Strategic Fuel Reserve as part of the broader economic and development cooperation between Eswatini and Taiwan, alongside the planned Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park.
Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said in April that construction of the reserve facility was progressing according to schedule, while Taiwan has described the project as one of the two flagship initiatives in its expanding economic partnership with Eswatini.
The facility’s groundbreaking was held in April 2025, with Taiwan providing financial and technical assistance for the project.
Ambassador-designate Tsuei, in his remarks after presenting his credentials, said Taiwan would continue supporting Eswatini in strategic areas, identifying the Strategic Oil Reserve and Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park among projects under the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project.
He said Taiwan wanted to translate the longstanding political friendship between the two countries into tangible opportunities for economic growth and improved livelihoods.
The King said Taiwan’s contribution extended beyond the fuel reserve, noting cooperation in education, tourism, culture and other areas.
He also praised Taiwan’s contribution towards improving Eswatini’s economy, saying the country’s support was appreciated.
With fuel prices remaining a major concern for consumers and businesses, the King said the reserve would provide an important layer of protection once operational.
The project is expected to strengthen the country’s ability to maintain fuel supplies during disruptions while improving its resilience to international fuel market shocks.
His Majesty further assured Tsuei that he would receive the necessary support as he begins his duties as Taiwan’s new ambassador to Eswatini.
