Africazine:
Eswatini is poised for a transformative investment in its road infrastructure, with nearly E2 billion allocated in the upcoming national budget.
This significant funding aims to repair, upgrade, and expand roads across the nation, addressing damage from extreme climate events and enhancing connectivity between urban and rural areas. The Minister of Finance highlighted the urgency of these improvements during his budget speech.
Eswatini’s Major Road Infrastructure Investment
The government of Eswatini is set to allocate nearly E2 billion in the 2026/27 national budget for road infrastructure. This investment is crucial for repairing and upgrading roads that have suffered due to climate change. The Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, emphasized the need for resilient infrastructure to withstand future climate impacts.
Key budget allocations include E164 million for feeder roads, E70 million for roads, bridges, and crossings, and E364 million for main and district double-sealed tarred roads. Notably, the Siphofaneni-Nsoko MR14-MR21 road project has a dedicated budget of E880 million.
Eswatini: Key figures on road infrastructure investment
- E2 billion for road infrastructure in the 2026/27 national budget
- E164 million for rehabilitation and maintenance of feeder roads
- E70 million for roads, bridges, and crossings
- E364 million for construction of main and district double-sealed tarred roads
- E880 million for the Siphofaneni-Nsoko MR14-MR21 road project
- E450 million from the Roads Authority Fund for maintenance and upgrades
Strengthening Connectivity and Safety in Eswatini
The investment not only focuses on road quality but also aims to improve road safety. The government is committed to aligning its efforts with the African Road Safety Charter and the National Road Safety Strategy, targeting a 50 percent reduction in road accidents and fatalities by 2030.
Transport experts believe that this infrastructure enhancement will significantly benefit Eswatini’s economy by reducing travel times, lowering transport costs, and facilitating trade and agricultural supply chains.
Next Steps for Eswatini’s Infrastructure Development
- Establishment and operationalization of the Roads Authority in 2026
- Implementation of climate-resilient engineering standards
- Final stages of negotiations for a E2.4 billion loan with the Development Bank of Southern Africa
Eswatini is making a strategic investment to enhance its road infrastructure, ensuring resilience against climate change and supporting economic growth.
