MBABANE - Construction of the E2.6 billion Mpakeni Dam has reached 51 per cent overall completion, as of the end of May 2026.
This reinforces the confidence that the landmark water infrastructure project will be delivered on schedule in April 2028.
Construction of the dam heavily funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) commenced on February 1, 2024 and is being undertaken by the Sakhalive Joint Venture, a consortium comprising China’s Sinohydro and Yellow River Engineering Consulting.
The project forms a central pillar of Eswatini’s long-term water security, agricultural development and rural transformation agenda.
Several critical milestones have already been achieved. Early enabling works, including the establishment of permanent offices and accommodation facilities for the Employer and Engineer, have been completed in full, marking the successful attainment of Milestone No 1.
River diversion works have also reached 100 per cent completion, achieving Milestone No 2 and creating favourable conditions for the next phases of construction.
The project has now advanced into some of its most technically demanding stages. Construction of the cut-off (diaphragm wall), which is essential for foundation stability and seepage control, has reached 80 per cent completion.
The cofferdam is virtually complete at 99 per cent, paving the way for intensified foundation and embankment works.
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… over E0.6m spent on Eswatini-based enterprises
MBABANE - The project has also stimulated local economic activity through procurement, with more than E660.2 million spent on Eswatini-based enterprises to date.
Skills development remains a key focus area, with over 150 individuals currently receiving technical and vocational training through the project.
This initiative reflects EWADE’s commitment to empowering young people through sustainable skills transfer and long-term employment opportunities.
EWADE Chief Executive Officer, Dr Samson Sithole, has attributed the strong progress registered at the Mpakeni Dam project to the collective commitment, leadership and support of all stakeholders involved in the implementation of the landmark national development initiative.
Dr Sithole paid special tribute to His Majesty King Mswati III for his unwavering support of the project, describing the King’s personal interest in its progress as a major source of inspiration and motivation for all those involved.
“We remain deeply honoured by the support of His Majesty King Mswati III, who personally visited the project site last year to assess progress, engage with project teams and encourage both the contractor and EWADE to continue driving this flagship national project forward,” said Dr Sithole.
“His Majesty’s visit underscored the strategic importance of the Mpakeni Dam Project to the country’s development agenda and reaffirmed the national significance of this investment.”
He noted that once completed, the project is expected to transform the lives and livelihoods of more than 100 000 emaSwati directly and indirectly through enhanced water security, agricultural development, employment creation and expanded economic opportunities. Dr Sithole further commended the Ministry of Agriculture, the EWADE Board of Directors, government, development partners, EWADE management and staff, the supervising consultants and the Sakhalive Joint Venture for their dedication and professionalism in advancing the project.
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