Eswatini is set to accelerate the implementation of two demonstration projects aimed at enhancing water security, climate resilience, and sustainable agricultural practices in the country's shared river basins. The Mpakeni Dam Sustainable Utilisation Plan and the Lomati Farmwise Smart Agriculture Project are central to a five-day Technical Alignment Workshop. This workshop is convened by the Incomati and Maputo River Basins Commission (INMACOM) with the Joint River Basin Authorities (JRBA) Project Board.
The projects are part of Component 4 of the GEF 8 IncoMaputo Project, which seeks to translate basin-level planning into practical interventions that address environmental pressures and community needs. INMACOM Executive Secretary Sindy Mthimkhulu emphasized the importance of the workshop in ensuring that pilot interventions move forward with clear responsibilities and collective ownership. The programme aims to bridge momentum with alignment, ensuring compliance and clarity in Eswatini's pilot interventions.
The Mpakeni and Lomati interventions are expected to demonstrate approaches that improve land and water resource management while supporting dependent communities. Key areas under Component 4 include water-efficient agriculture and solar pumping, rehabilitation of water delivery infrastructure, and biodiversity conservation. The programme also covers restoration of degraded areas, aquatic ecosystem monitoring, and institutional capacity development. These efforts aim to enhance sustainable benefits for communities dependent on shared water resources.
A five-day workshop is underway to strengthen collaboration between JRBA, INMACOM, the Global Water Partnership Southern Africa (GWPSA), and the Project Management Unit. The workshop ensures implementation complies with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) requirements. Participants are being oriented on fiduciary, procurement, safeguards, reporting, and quality assurance requirements. Discussions also assess the readiness and scope of the pilot interventions.
The workshop includes a field visit to assess the projects against ground conditions and identify areas for improved implementation sequencing. Partners are expected to validate a Joint Work Plan, targeting a field-informed implementation assessment and a shared understanding of project delivery. The goal is to finalize a revised budget-aligned work plan and a delivery acceleration plan. This will enable effective project execution and enhance water security and ecosystem resilience.
The GEF 8 IncoMaputo Project, funded by the Global Environment Facility and implemented by UNDP Eswatini, is executed by GWPSA. The project supports basin-wide planning, climate and disaster risk preparedness, and improved data and information systems. It also focuses on source-to-sea management to strengthen water security and ecosystem resilience across the Incomati and Maputo basins. The broader programme aims to create sustainable benefits for communities dependent on shared water resources.
The implementation of the Mpakeni Dam Sustainable Utilisation Plan and the Lomati Farmwise Smart Agriculture Project marks a significant step towards achieving these goals. By improving water security and climate resilience, Eswatini can enhance sustainable agricultural practices and support communities dependent on shared water resources. The success of these projects will serve as a model for future interventions in the region, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient water management system.
Key points
- Eswatini is implementing two demonstration projects to improve water security and climate resilience in shared river basins.
- The projects are part of the GEF 8 IncoMaputo Project, which aims to translate basin-level planning into practical interventions.
- The programme is funded by the Global Environment Facility and implemented by UNDP Eswatini, with a focus on sustainable benefits for communities dependent on shared water resources.
