BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
EZULWINI- Matsapha-based manufacturing company Exipro Managing Director, Gavin Adamson, has made a strong and thoughtful submission on the proposed electricity tariff hike, calling for clarity, balance and long-term planning to safeguard jobs and industrial growth in Eswatini.
Speaking during a stakeholder consultation meeting held at Sibane Hotel, Adamson drew from over three decades of experience in manufacturing to highlight the growing pressure electricity costs are placing on local industry.
Adamson noted that while access to electricity for households remains important, the country must carefully balance this objective with the need to sustain factories that create jobs and drive economic activity. He explained that rising electricity costs directly affect the competitiveness of local manufacturers in global markets, making it increasingly difficult to produce affordably and retain employment.
He emphasised that his submission was not a criticism of the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC), acknowledging that the utility is working within the mandates given to it. Instead, he urged policymakers to reflect on the broader national direction, stressing that unclear and shifting strategies on electricity pricing create uncertainty for businesses planning for the future.
Adamson expressed concern about the current regulatory process, where tariff proposals move between institutions before final figures are determined, often changing along the way. He said such unpredictability makes it difficult for manufacturers to plan operations, set prices, and commit to long-term investment.
Highlighting Eswatini’s advantage as a small and closely connected nation, he called for stronger coordination between government ministries, regulators and industry players. According to Adamson, a clear, shared strategy on electricity pricing would help protect existing factories, attract investment and ensure sustainable development.
He further warned that sudden, steep tariff increases after periods of stability are difficult for international customers to understand, especially when suppliers are forced to adjust prices sharply due to rising input costs.
Adamson concluded by urging the country to think carefully about what it wants to achieve economically, stressing that protecting industry is essential for job creation, exports and long-term prosperity.
