The African Development Bank (AfDB) has expressed satisfaction with the implementation of major projects it is financing in Eswatini. A delegation of senior advisors and advisors representing 30 countries visited several projects, including the Lower Usuthu Smallholder Irrigation Project Phase II (LUSIP II) and the Mpakeni Dam. The delegation paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini to discuss the progress of these projects.
LUSIP II, approved by the AfDB in 2016 with a loan of about US$63 million, aims to expand irrigated agriculture and transform smallholder farmers into commercial producers. The project will develop infrastructure to irrigate about 5,000 hectares and directly benefit a further 1,000 households. This project aligns with the AfDB's goals of promoting agricultural development and improving the livelihoods of rural communities.
The Mpakeni Dam is part of the Mkhondvo-Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Programme (MNWAP), a major water and irrigation development initiative in the southern part of Eswatini. The first phase of the project, which includes construction of the Mpakeni Dam and downstream conveyance infrastructure, was estimated at 83 million units of account (UA) in AfDB project documentation. The overall cost of the dam and associated works is estimated at about €400 million.
The AfDB is also supporting other initiatives in Eswatini, including the Eswatini Road Infrastructure Improvement Programme Phase I, with a total cost of US$175.71 million. The programme includes upgrading the Siphofaneni-Sithobela-Maloma-Nsoko (MR14) road and aims to improve connectivity and mobility in rural and urban areas. Additionally, the bank is supporting the MNWAP's Phase 1A and Phase 1B components, including the main conveyance from Mpakeni Dam.
During the meeting with the AfDB delegation, Prime Minister Dlamini welcomed the positive assessment of the projects visited and expressed his government's appreciation for the AfDB's continued partnership in advancing Eswatini's development agenda. The discussions also explored opportunities for deeper cooperation on strategic mega projects, including industrial parks, the Intermodal Transport and Logistics Project, and the SADC University of Transformation.
Prime Minister Dlamini emphasized that development partnerships should ultimately translate into tangible benefits for the people of Eswatini. He urged the AfDB to consider procurement frameworks that would create greater opportunities for qualified local businesses and young people to participate in and benefit from projects implemented in the kingdom. This would help major investments achieve benefits beyond infrastructure development.
The AfDB's continued support for Eswatini's development initiatives is crucial for the country's growth and development. The bank's investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and other sectors are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of Emaswati. The government's commitment to strengthening partnerships with development institutions will be essential in achieving the country's aspirations.
Key points
- The African Development Bank has given a positive assessment of projects it is financing in Eswatini, including LUSIP II and the Mpakeni Dam.
- The AfDB has invested in several projects in Eswatini, including the Eswatini Road Infrastructure Improvement Programme Phase I and the Mkhondvo-Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Programme.
- Prime Minister Dlamini has urged the AfDB to consider procurement frameworks that would create greater opportunities for qualified local businesses and young people to participate in and benefit from projects implemented in Eswatini.
