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MBABANE – Eswatini has taken a step towards bolstering food security and climate resilience with the successful completion of the feasibility studies and detailed designs for MNWAP.
The implementation progress and results report (IPR), compiled in November 2024 and finalised in July 2025, confirms that the study has been completed to a ‘highly satisfactory’ standard, laying the groundwork for one of the kingdom’s most ambitious agricultural infrastructure projects.
The report was published by the African Development Bank (AfDB) yesterday, as the main funder of the programme.
Driven by the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE), the project is not only transforming the landscape of Shiselweni, but also setting new standards in infrastructure delivery and national empowerment.
Mkhondvo - Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Programme (MNWAP) is a large-scale water resources development initiative designed to harness the potential of the Mkhondvo and Ngwavuma River systems.
At its core, the programme is anchored on:
- Construction of the Mpakeni Dam
- Development of downstream irrigation networks
- Augmentation of existing water systems to improve supply reliability for both commercial and small-holder farmers.
The project forms part of Eswatini’s broader strategy to expand irrigated agriculture, reduce vulnerability to drought and secure long-term food sovereignty.
The studies were financed under the Middle Income Country Fund Technical Assistance Facility with a total allocation of UA 2.2 million (approximately E58 million). Of this, 99.23 per cent has already been disbursed, with only a marginal balance remaining. The project, managed by the Ministry of Agriculture – Co-operatives Department, was implemented within schedule, avoiding the delays that often characterise major feasibility undertakings.
Both the outcome and implementation ratings were graded as ‘highly satisfactory.’
Full article available in our publication.
The Mkhondvo-Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Programme is anchored on the construction of the Mpakeni Dam, the development of downstream irrigation networks and augmentation of existing water systems. (Pic: Courtesy)