Times Of Swaziland: AFDB’S OVER E15BN LOANS, GRANTS TO TRANSFORM ESWATINI

AFDB’S OVER E15BN LOANS, GRANTS TO TRANSFORM ESWATINI
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Nhlanganiso Mkhonta on 13/11/2024 13:27:00


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.