AFDB’S OVER E15BN LOANS, GRANTS TO TRANSFORM ESWATINI

MBABANE – The African Development Bank (AfDB) Group has provided sizeable loans and grants to the Kingdom of Eswatini to the tune of over E15 billion since 1972.

This was highlighted on Monday evening during the bank’s 60th anniversary commemoration held at the Hilton Garden Inn. These investments span essential sectors, from agriculture and water to transport, energy, and finance, each one a stepping stone towards a sustainable future. The most successful projects supported by the Bank Group include the Komati Downstream Development Project (KDDP), Lower Usuthu Irrigation Project (LUSIP I and II) and the Manzini-Mbadlane Road Project, the Ezulwini and the Manzini water supply and sanitation projects.

When delivering her remarks, Director General of the African Development Bank for Southern Africa Leila Mokaddem said with a E238.6 million (US$13.18 million) investment, the Komati Downstream Development Project has been a catalyst for change among smallholder farmers. Mokaddem said by providing essential irrigation infrastructure and credit support, this initiative has enabled the development of over 6 000 hectares, the formation of 27 farmer companies, and the creation of jobs for 1 482 people.

She stated that the project has brought clean water and sanitation facilities to thousands of households, enhancing both health and productivity. Altogether, these efforts have not only boosted economic growth, but also significantly improved the quality of life for entire communities. The director highlighted that the Lower Usuthu Smallholder Irrigation Project (LUSIP) I and II are shining examples of the Bank’s commitment to transforming agriculture. With a combined investment of E710.4 million (US$39.3 million), these initiatives have moved farming from a subsistence level to a commercial scale, strengthening rural economies and providing countless families with a more secure future.Through LUSIP, 60 farmer companies have been established, over 6 000 hectares of land developed, and more than 5 000 jobs created.

Procurement

By ensuring access to water and sanitation, this project has also fostered healthier, more resilient communities. From 2023 to 2024, the Bank collaborated with the Government of Eswatini on the Methodology for Assessing Procurement Systems (MAPS) assessment of Eswatini’s public procurement system, with findings presented just last week. The bank is excited to continue supporting the upcoming PEFA exercise to further enhance the effectiveness of public finance management in Eswatini.

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