Times Of Swaziland: EWADE AWARDS E3.3BN CONTRACTS IN 2023/24

EWADE AWARDS E3.3BN CONTRACTS IN 2023/24
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Nhlanganiso Mkhonta on 13/12/2024 08:51:00


MBABANE - EWADE has made a significant impact on the business community by
awarding contracts amounting to E3.343 billion for goods, services and works
across MSMEs.
This is according to the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise
(EWADE) annual report for the 2023/24 financial year ended March 30, 2024.
Notably, E712.509 million (21.3 per cent) was allocated to micro, small and
medium enterprises (MSMEs) for activities such as bush clearing, land
preparation, supply and installation of irrigation systems, and various other
goods, services, and construction works. “This reflects our strong commitment
to supporting local businesses and promoting economic growth,” said EWADE.
In addition, E2.630 billion (78.7 per cent) was awarded to a joint venture for
the construction of the Mpakeni Dam, underscoring the organisation’s
investment in large-scale infrastructure projects. EWADE’s procurement
function is dedicated to ensuring that all procurement activities are conducted
in strict adherence to applicable laws, regulations and funding agency
requirements, while upholding the organisation’s internal policies and
procedures.
The organisation’s strategic objectives are centred around compliance, risk
mitigation, sustainability, and value creation. To support the sustainable
development of Eswatini’s economy, EWADE is committed to empowering local
MSMEs, fostering innovation and competition and promoting the inclusivity of
local communities. “We recognise the vital role that MSMEs play in job
creation and economic growth, and we are dedicated to supporting their
development,” added EWADE. In the 2023-2027 periods, the EWADE’s commercial
strategy has focused on embedding commercialisation to ensure the
organisation’s long-term sustainability, particularly in light of the nearing
full development of Eswatini’s major water basins.
The strategy addresses the need for financial independence by fostering growth
in precision agriculture, ecotourism, renewable energy, and consultancy
services, aiming to reduce reliance on government subvention.
Diligent
The EWADE Commercial Department has set diligent goals to implement the State
enterprise privatisation policy, generate E10 million in annual revenue over the
next five years and expand into foreign markets. The strategy also emphasises
the development of business enterprises and a portfolio of projects, with key
focus areas including ecotourism, precision agriculture, consultancy services
and renewable energy. A strategic emphasis on development, financial human
capital sustainability, governance and business development is driving this
transformation.
By improving staff competencies and establishing an enabling governance
framework, EWADE is positioning itself to become a leader in the marketplace,
while creating jobs and fostering economic growth in Eswatini. The commercial
strategy marks a significant shift towards financial self-reliance, with the aim
of evolving the Commercial Department into a fully self-sustained subsidiary,
contributing to the broader national development agenda.