By Delisa Thwala
Eswatini is positioning itself as a hub for sustainable economic growth, with 14 key investment opportunities identified in priority sectors.
These include food, beverage, renewable resources, alternative energy, and infrastructure.
This was revealed by United Nations Resident Coordinator George Wachira during the Private Sector-UN Senior Level Dialogue on the New United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2026–2030, held at Business Eswatini Headquarters today.
Wachira stressed the importance of collaboration between the private sector and development partners, noting that the identified opportunities aim to bolster economic growth, address unemployment, and promote environmental sustainability.
“These opportunities represent the future of Eswatini’s economy. We are focusing on areas that can create real, tangible change particularly in job creation and sustainable development,” said Wachira.
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“Food and beverage production, for example, has huge potential. If we can move from primary production to agro-processing and value addition, the sector can become a powerful driver of growth.” He added.
The 14 investment areas align closely with Eswatini’s development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to Wachira, renewable energy is a key focus, with the country’s natural resources offering significant opportunities for solar, wind, and bioenergy projects.
These investments could reduce Eswatini’s reliance on imported energy while contributing to climate resilience and energy security.
“Our aim is not just economic growth but inclusive growth,” added Wachira.
“We need to focus on investments that benefit every segment of society particularly women, youth, and rural communities. That is how we ensure no one is left behind.”
The event brought together key players from Eswatini’s private sector and senior UN officials to explore ways of aligning business strategies with the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.
Business Eswatini Chief Executive Officer Nathi Dlamini called on the private sector to take full advantage of the investment opportunities.
“We have the potential to transform Eswatini’s economy, but it requires a collective effort,” said Dlamini.
“The private sector must be proactive, innovative, and ready to collaborate with development partners.
These 14 opportunities are the blueprint for what’s possible. It’s now up to us to make them a reality.” He said in addition.
Dlamini noted that infrastructure development is another critical area, with a need for improved transport networks, affordable housing, and modern telecommunications infrastructure to support business growth and social development.
The focus areas for investment include Food and Beverage: Agro-processing and value addition to local produce
Renewable Resources: Green energy projects, particularly solar and wind energy
Alternative Energy: Bioenergy and waste-to-energy solutions
Infrastructure Development: Road networks, affordable housing, and digital infrastructure
Bridging Gaps and Creating Opportunities
During the dialogue, concerns were raised about the challenges that businesses face in accessing financing for green projects and infrastructure development.
Wachira assured attendees that the UN is committed to working with local partners to bridge those gaps.
“We are not just identifying opportunities; we are also looking at how to address the barriers to entry,” he said.
“Partnerships will be key—whether it’s working with banks to provide innovative financing solutions or supporting policy reforms that make it easier to invest in Eswatini.”
Private sector representatives expressed optimism about the framework, with many seeing it as a chance to unlock new markets and expand their operations.
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“This framework gives us a clear sense of direction,” said one business leader in attendance. “It’s a roadmap for the next five years, and it’s exciting to see such a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.”
As the dialogue concluded, Wachira reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Eswatini in achieving its development goals. “We are in this together,” he said.
“The path to sustainable development is one we must walk side by side with the private sector, government, and the people of Eswatini.”
The New United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2026–2030 will serve as a comprehensive strategy to guide investments and partnerships over the next five years, ensuring that Eswatini remains on a sustainable, inclusive growth trajectory.
Worth mentioning is that Private sector engagement is crucial for turning these opportunities into reality.
Wachira called on local and international investors to collaborate with the UN and government partners to overcome challenges such as limited access to financing and regulatory bottlenecks.
“The private sector is the engine of growth. When business leaders and development partners work together, incredible things happen,” said Wachira.
According to a 2024 report by the African Development Bank, African countries that prioritize investments in renewable energy and infrastructure experience GDP growth rates 2.5 times higher than those that do not.
Eswatini is poised to follow this trajectory if the identified sectors are fully tapped.
During the dialogue, concerns were raised about the availability of funding for large-scale projects.
Wachira assured attendees that the UN is committed to facilitating access to innovative financing solutions, such as green bonds and blended finance models.
“We are not just identifying areas for investment we are actively working to create an enabling environment,” said Wachira.
“Policy reforms, improved access to credit, and capacity-building initiatives will be key to achieving these goals.” He said.
