By Mbono Mdluli
EZULWINI – Senators from the Ministry of Finance Portfolio Committee are currently participating in a workshop aimed at enhancing their understanding of both local and global financial issues.
This initiative began on May 21, 2025, at Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini.
Purpose of the Workshop
The primary goal of the workshop is to equip legislators with the necessary skills to comprehend financial dynamics, which is essential for carrying out their duties effectively. Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg emphasized the significance of this training, highlighting that it would enable senators to hold the government accountable and prevent excessive national debt.
The workshop also helped senators to understand the global financial trends and how they could help Eswatini take advantage of those trends, in order for the country to develop.
For instance, the minister highlighted that there were opportunities in the global space, where the country could have access to finance. This would help the country to be able to implement its developmental projects.
Key Topics Covered
The workshop addresses various aspects of fiscal governance, including:
– Macroeconomic planning
– Budget formulation
– Public Financial Management (PFM) reform
– Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) implementation
– Debt management
– Procurement systems
– Treasury operations
– Legal frameworks
These topics are crucial for senators to effectively scrutinize and guide public financial management processes in line with national development goals.
Importance of Understanding Global Trends
Senator Tony Sibandze, chairperson of the Ministry of Finance Portfolio Committee, noted that the workshop provides substantial value to their role. He remarked that legislators must understand the workings of the Ministry of Finance and the global economic landscape to fulfill their duties of legislation, representation, and oversight effectively.
Conclusion
This engagement is vital for fostering a strong interface between the executive and legislature, promoting transparency, reinforcing checks and balances, and ensuring that fiscal policy decisions are informed and accountable. By understanding local and global financial affairs, senators will be better positioned to contribute to the country’s development and financial stability.
(Pics by: Ministry of Finance)
