BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE– Eswatini’s efforts to secure a sustainable and reliable energy future are gaining encouraging momentum following continued high-level engagements under the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) and Korea-Africa Energy support programmes.
The Honourable Minister, HRH Prince Lonkhokhela, recently advanced discussions with Ambassador Menzie Dlamini, Eswatini’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, focusing on strategic energy projects to be submitted for international consideration.
Building on earlier consultations, the meeting brought together a dedicated multi-sectoral committee representing the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Eswatini Electricity Company, and the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development. This collaborative approach reflects government’s commitment to inclusive planning and coordinated development in addressing the country’s energy needs.
During the engagement, the committee presented a range of well-considered project proposals aimed at reducing Eswatini’s power deficit and strengthening national energy security. Each proposal was discussed in detail, ensuring alignment with national priorities while meeting the technical and developmental requirements of both the TICAD framework and the Korea-Africa Energy initiative.
The discussions highlighted the importance of international partnerships in accelerating Eswatini’s transition towards improved energy generation and supply. By leveraging support from long-standing partners in Asia, the country is positioning itself to benefit from shared expertise, financing opportunities and innovative energy solutions.
These engagements also signal growing confidence in Eswatini’s development agenda, as global partners continue to show interest in supporting projects that contribute to economic growth, industrial development and improved quality of life for citizens. Reliable energy supply remains a cornerstone for job creation, investment attraction and service delivery across key sectors.
As preparations for project submission move forward, the continued collaboration between government institutions and diplomatic representatives underscores a unified national effort. The momentum generated through TICAD and Korea-Africa Energy talks offers renewed optimism that Eswatini is steadily advancing towards a more resilient, self-sustaining and energy-secure future.
(Courtesy Pic)
