Eswatini submits ambitious NDC 3.0 to UNFCCC

The Kingdom of Eswatini has submitted its Third Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), strengthening its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and aligning them with national development priorities.

Eswatini has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2.24 MtCO?e in 2035 compared to the Business as Usual (BAU) scenario, representing a 115% increase in ambition from its previous NDC 2.0 target.

Officials describe the move as both a climate milestone and an opportunity to foster sustainable economic growth.

The NDC 3.0 was developed through a highly consultative process that included government, private sector, civil society, academia, and communities.

Stakeholders highlighted the importance of incorporating the voices of women, youth, and vulnerable groups.

“This was a country-driven process, designed to reflect the realities of emaSwati while meeting international standards,” the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs stated through a statement.

A major innovation in NDC 3.0 is the just transition framework, which ensures that the move to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy is equitable and inclusive.

The framework stresses the need to protect jobs, reskill workers, support rural communities, and create opportunities in green industries.
The enhanced NDC opens opportunities for investment in renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, sustainable forestry, and waste management.

Eswatini’s growing capital markets and financial sector are expected to play a role in financing green projects, while the international community may provide additional climate finance.

Officials note that aligning with NDC priorities can help local businesses access funding, strengthen competitiveness, and enter new markets focused on sustainability.

The government emphasizes the importance of mobilising climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity building to meet the new targets.

Partnerships with multilateral agencies, private investors, and development banks will be key to unlocking resources and expertise.
NDC 3.0 is part of Eswatini’s broader vision to build resilience against climate risks while stimulating inclusive growth.

“We are building a climate agenda that works for all emaSwati and strengthens the foundations of our economy,” officials said.

Challenges remain, including access to finance, technical capacity, and global economic uncertainty. However, the submission of NDC 3.0 positions Eswatini as a committed player in global climate action.

With its ambitious targets and inclusive framework, the Kingdom has signalled that climate action is not only an environmental obligation but also a pathway to a sustainable and resilient economy.