E5.7M WATER INVESTMENT SECURED

MBABANE - Eswatini is set to benefit from a funding allocation of US$299 656 (approximately E5.7 million) under the African Union (AU) Green Climate Fund (GCF) Readiness Support Initiative. This initiative is aimed at bolstering climate-resilient water investment planning.  According to the project presentation made by GWPSA Head of Communications Teresa Ndanga, Eswatini’s funding will be directed towards: Training for water sector stakeholders to enhance their ability to access and manage climate finance. Development of a systematic assessment of the country’s water and climate investment needs. Formulation of a climate-resilient water investment programme aligned with the AU’s broader AIP framework.

The funding was initially announced last year in February but implementation of the programme commenced in August last year. Due to the fact that the 15 participating member States are in different stages, some countries, including Eswatini, will be commencing utilising the funds this year. During a virtual press briefing held last Friday, it was announced that Eswatini stakeholders will be convening the trainings in the coming weeks.

Initiative

The initiative, which is spearheaded by the AU’s Africa Water Investment Programme (AIP) and delivered through the Global Water Partnership Southern Africa (GWPSA), seeks to enhance the capacity of participating countries to access climate finance. It is particularly significant for Eswatini, given the country’s growing vulnerability to climate change impacts such as droughts, floods, and water scarcity. This effort aligns with the AU Climate Change and Resilient Development Strategy and Action Plan (2022-2032), which underscores the urgent need for increased investment in water infrastructure across Africa.

Africa faces a massive financing gap in the water sector. According to the World Bank, the continent requires at least US$30 billion annually to meet Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), yet current investments stand between US$10-US$19 billion per year.  The GCF-approved funding of over US$6 million for this initiative is expected to help bridge part of this gap by strengthening national frameworks for water investment.Eswatini’s inclusion in the initiative reflects the country’s commitment to improving water security and resilience against climate change.

Establishment

The project, which officially launched in August 2024, will also see the establishment of a continental knowledge and investment platform, where participating countries can exchange best practices and collaborate on climate-resilient water investment strategies.The implementation phase will be led by a National Technical Coordinator, working closely with the country’s National Designated Authority (NDA) to ensure that Eswatini maximises the impact of the funding. The country’s efforts will also contribute to the broader AU goal of mobilizing US$30 billion in water investments per year by 2030.As climate change intensifies, investments in water infrastructure and climate adaptation measures are no longer optional but essential for Eswatini’s long-term development and resilience.

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