The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy in Eswatini has reported a significant increase in revenue, collecting E143.4 million in the second quarter of the 2026/27 financial year. This represents a surge of over 200% from the previous quarter. The revenue growth is largely attributed to fuel and electricity levies. The Ministry's Second Quarter Performance Report, presented to Parliament by Minister HRH Prince Lonkhokhela, highlights the progress made despite various constraints.
The Ministry's report, covering the period from 1 July to 30 September 2026, shows steady delivery across its mandate. However, the Minister noted that the Ministry faced real constraints, including limited fuel and vehicles, shortages of drilling plants, procurement delays, staff vacancies, and vandalism of electricity infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the Ministry was able to realise positive results. The report was presented to both Houses of Parliament in October.
Major water infrastructure projects in Eswatini are nearing completion, according to the Minister. The Lower Maguduza hydro-power project, which has been long-awaited, is currently at 72% completion and is expected to be finished within the first quarter of the 2027/28 financial year. This project is a significant development in the country's energy sector. The Minister's presentation highlighted the progress made in various sectors.
In the water sector, the Department of Water Affairs has made significant progress in rehabilitating and implementing water and sanitation projects. These projects aim to promote economic and social development, with a focus on expanding rural access and developing sustainable water sources. The Department is working on several water schemes in collaboration with World Vision, targeting approximately 12,555 beneficiaries.
Seven water schemes are currently under construction, with progress ranging from 25% to 91%. The Mhlangatane-Mpofu scheme in Mhlangatane is at 91% completion, while the Kubuta-Moti scheme is at 65%. Other schemes, including Maseyisini-Nyamane, Maseyisini-Joppa, Mkhiweni-Mbelebeleni, Sigwe-Sibovini, and Shiselweni 11-Skhotseni, are also at various stages of completion. Two additional schemes, Luhlangotsini Extension Water Supply Scheme and Khuphuka Water Supply Scheme, are advancing at 70% and 60% completion, respectively.
The groundwater development program has exceeded its annual target. A total of 19 boreholes were drilled in water-stressed communities, surpassing the planned 15. The boreholes were distributed across various regions, including Hhohho, Lubombo, Shiselweni, and Manzini. Seventeen additional sites have been surveyed for future drilling. The hand-pump program also made progress, with nine new hand-pumps installed and 30 malfunctioning pumps repaired countrywide.
The St Peters Water Supply Scheme in Lubombo is 100% complete and awaiting official commissioning. This scheme is expected to provide a reliable source of water for the local community. The Ministry's progress in the water and energy sectors is a positive development for Eswatini's economic and social growth.
Key points
- The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy collected E143.4 million in revenue in Q2 2026/27, a 200% increase from the previous quarter.
- The Lower Maguduza hydro-power project is 72% complete and expected to be finished within the first quarter of the 2027/28 financial year.
- Groundwater development exceeded the annual target, with 19 boreholes drilled in water-stressed communities.
