BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
LOBAMBA – Members of Parliament have welcomed Zimbabwean businessman Sir Wicknell Chivayo’s proposed investments in Eswatini, describing them as a potential boost to the country’s energy and economic development, while urging government to ensure the projects are successfully implemented.
The matter dominated the House of Assembly Portfolio Committee First Quarter Performance Reports debate, with MPs welcoming foreign investment while calling for transparency and regular updates on implementation.
Hhukwini MP Alec Lushaba welcomed the arrival of the Zimbabwean investor, saying the proposed investments in the energy sector had the potential to support Eswatini’s development agenda.
He said government should provide all necessary support to ensure the investment succeeds.
“We should ensure that the investor gets the proper help and assistance he needs,” he said.
Nhlambeni MP Manzi Zwane also sought an update on what he described as the investor’s good news for the country.
“Why is the ministry not addressing the issue of the E3 billion solar plant? Give us direction about this investor who is coming with good news, Minister,” he said.
Chivayo recently announced plans to invest approximately E3 billion in a 300-megawatt solar power project in Eswatini through his company, Intratrek Holdings, in partnership with Chinese electrical manufacturer CHiNT Electric. The project is intended to operate as an Independent Power Producer and increase domestic electricity generation while reducing reliance on imported power.
The investment proposal followed Chivayo’s recent visit to Eswatini, during which he met His Majesty King Mswati III to discuss renewable energy, infrastructure development and investment opportunities. Reports indicate the project is expected to be developed on a 120-hectare site allocated for the investment.
Responding to MPs, Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Prince Lonkhokhela acknowledged that the matter had generated significant public interest.
“The issue of the Zimbabwean investor is a big issue. MPs are right to worry why I have been quiet on the issue,” he said.
The minister assured Parliament that government was actively working to facilitate the investment.
He said the investor had already been allocated land where the project would be undertaken.
“We are embracing the investor. He has even been given land where he will work, and we are expecting that he will get a licence soon,” the minister said.
Prince Lonkhokhela further acknowledged the role played by Prince Lindani in supporting the investment process.
“We thank Prince Lindani for the great assistance he has offered to the investor. He knows the investor personally,” he said.
The minister explained that an official from the ministry responsible for licencing had not attended Parliament because he was busy dealing with matters relating to Chivayo’s investment proposal.
Earlier this month, Chivayo announced that the first phase of the solar project would be financed from his company’s own resources while regulatory processes continue. The first phase is expected to comprise 50MW before expansion to the full 300MW capacity.
(Courtesy Pic)
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