By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, Prince Lonkhokhela, recently met with energy investors to explore ways to expedite the completion of solar power projects currently underway in Eswatini.
According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, the minister engaged with chief executives and senior officials from independent power producers (IPPs) during the Africa Energy Week, focusing on the development of solar projects procured by the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA).
During these discussions, Prince Lonkhokhela conferred with representatives from InnoVent regarding the 10 MW Nsoko Project and Sturdee Energy, which is involved in the 30 MW solar projects at Balekane and Ngwenya. The minister emphasised the urgent need to fast-track the delivery of these solar initiatives.
As his efforts at Africa Energy Week continued, Prince Lonkhokhela met with a diverse group of investors interested in the potential for investment in Eswatini’s power sector, mining, and fuel production. These discussions were promising, leading the minister to commit to ongoing dialogue with relevant government ministries and parastatals to deepen conversations and advance shared interests.
Additionally, the minister had the opportunity to meet with the World Bank’s Regional Energy Manager. Their discussions centred on the recently approved ASCENT project, which aims to enhance Eswatini’s access to electricity and achieve the ambitious goal of 100% coverage by 2030. They also explored strategic areas of support, including an analysis of the impact of various power generation sources on electricity tariffs and future energy affordability in Eswatini. This evaluation, to be conducted by the World Bank, will provide essential insights for informed energy investment decisions.
Addressing a ministerial gathering of private and public companies, Prince Lonkhokhela articulated the multifaceted challenges hindering the timely development of energy projects. He outlined practical solutions to these obstacles, paving the way for more efficient progress in the energy sector. Furthermore, he highlighted Eswatini’s ongoing energy projects, showcasing the lucrative investment opportunities available within the country’s dynamic energy landscape.
In another significant meeting, Prince Lonkhokhela engaged with Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, the Minister of Electricity and Energy for South Africa. The two ministers discussed energy-related matters of mutual interest and committed to strengthening the existing relations between their countries. To further solidify these ties, Prince Lonkhokhela invited Minister Ramokgopa to Eswatini for continued discussions on energy cooperation.
The meeting between Prince Lonkhokhela and Dr. Ramokgopa marked a pivotal moment in the bilateral relations between the neighbouring countries, particularly as it took place during the ongoing 27th Africa Energy Forum (AEF) at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The AEF provided an invaluable platform for strategic discussions, fostering meaningful dialogue aimed at reinforcing existing ties and enhancing cooperation in the energy sector.
(Pics by : Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy Eswatini)
