By Phumelele Mkkhonta
The use of plastic bags will soon be history in the country.
Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jabu Mkhonta-Simelane has announced the total ban on plastic carry bags in the Kingdom of Eswatini and this will be as of December 1, 2024.
The Minister announced on Wednesday at the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs in Mbabane.
 0yuytDuring the briefing, the Minister, who also doubles as the Mbabane West Member of Parliament, said in the exercise of the powers conferred under Section 89 of the Environmental Management Act, 2002,
The Minister of Tourism and Environment Affairs through Legal Notice No. 155 of 21 May 2021, published the Control of Plastic Bags Regulations to regulate the production, importation, and use of plastic bags;
promote the reuse, recycling, and safe handling of plastic bags; and ultimately ban production, importation and use of plastic bags in Eswatini.
“Pursuant to Regulation 14 of the Control of Plastic Bags Regulations, 2021 and a landmark decision aimed at combating environmental degradation and promoting sustainable practices,
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His Majesty’s Government today announces a total ban on all single-use plastic carrier bags.
This measure effective 1st December 2024 from the issuance of a Government gazette, marks a significant step towards eliminating plastic pollution and safeguarding our planet for future generations,
including positioning of the Kingdom of Eswatini as a tourism destination of choice in Southern Africa.â€
“The period between now and November will allow the manufacturers to bring in new innovations as they evolve to environmentally friendly products.
Single-use plastic bags have long been a symbol of environmental harm in the country, clogging waterways, endangering livestock, and contributing to the global plastic crisis.
Global research has confirmed that microplastics are one of the leading causes of some of the emerging health risks such as carcinogenicity and endocrine disruption in humans,†said the Minister.
Justifying the move to ban plastics, she further said recognising the urgent need for action, Government had undertaken comprehensive deliberations and consultations with stakeholders to inform this decisive policy action.
Under the terms of the ban, according to the Minister, all retailers, supermarkets, manufacturers, and vendors will be prohibited from selling or providing for free single-use plastic shopping bags to customers.
“This encompasses bags made from traditional plastic materials, including polyethene and polypropylene, regardless of thickness.
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Consumers are encouraged to embrace reusable alternatives such as cloth bags, paper bags, or durable tote bags.
This ban aligns with our commitment to environmental stewardship and underscores our responsibility to adopt sustainable practices in every facet of society for a low carbon economy.â€
She further said to ensure a smooth transition and widespread compliance, the Government would engage in public awareness campaigns and provide support to businesses for transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives, including encouraging research and development on locally produced none-plastic alternatives.
“The country is also aware that plastic carrier bags and not the only problematic single-use plastic products.
It is for this reason that the ministry has drawn a 12-month roadmap to phase out all Styrofoam, also known as Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) products.
Necessary considerations will also be taken to produce a private sector-driven Extended Producer Responsibility framework for all other packaging products to ensure producers are responsible for the end-of-life waste management of their products.â€
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“We call upon all citizens, businesses, local authorities, and law enforcement agencies to join hands in this collective effort.
Together, we can make a tangible difference in preserving the beauty and integrity of our country for generations to come.â€
Plastic Ban a victory for Eswatini – Yibutse Green Action
Kudos to the Government of Eswatini!
Yibutse Green Action, a non-profit organisation that encourages youth participation in the climate change response and environmental stewardship, says the total ban on single-use plastic carry-bags, was a welcome, yet long overdue step in the right direction for the country.
“This bold, brave, and laudable move by the government is in step with leading countries of the world. It puts Eswatini on the pedestal to achieve great strides in the fight against plastic pollution.
We applaud the Honourable Minister of Tourism and Environment Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane for the bold, future-focused decision.
As Yibutse Green Action we strongly support this move and hope that the whole country will join us in applauding this future-conscious decision,†said Musa Ndlangamandla, the Executive Director of Yibutse Green Action.
