UNDP targets 5 000 jobs and 25 000 sustainable livelihoods in Eswatini
By Delisa Magagula
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has unveiled its new Country Programme Document (CPD) for Eswatini, setting out ambitious targets to create 5,000 direct jobs and support 25,000 sustainable livelihoods by 2030.
The initiative is designed to drive annual economic growth above 4 per cent, while strengthening governance, social cohesion, and sustainable development in line with the Kingdom’s national priorities.
According to the UNDP, the programme is the result of extensive consultations, evaluations, and lessons learned from previous interventions.
It aligns with both the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, while directly supporting Eswatini’s National Development Plan.
UNDP officials stated that the CPD also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) through two interconnected priorities which are promoting good governance and social cohesion and advancing sustainable and resilient economic development.
At the heart of the programme is the creation of new employment opportunities for Eswatini’s growing youth population.
UNDP emphasised that the goal is not only to generate 5,000 direct jobs but also to secure 25,000 sustainable livelihoods across different sectors.
“This programme responds to the pressing challenge of youth unemployment in Eswatini. By investing in sustainable livelihoods, skills development, and entrepreneurship, we aim to ensure that young people can contribute meaningfully to the economy,” UNDP said.
Officials further explained that job creation will be supported by policies aimed at strengthening the macroeconomic framework.
By addressing systemic challenges and promoting private sector growth, the programme targets consistent annual growth above 4 per cent.
Beyond economic development, the CPD places significant emphasis on improving governance and access to justice.
“By 2030, UNDP plans to ensure that at least 50 per cent of people interacting with the justice system including litigants, accused persons, and vulnerable communities have access to fair, fast, and affordable justice,” further read the UNDP statement.
According to the statement, this will be achieved through the establishment of small claims courts expanded access to legal aid, and the promotion of inclusive alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
According to UNDP, such reforms are aimed at reducing barriers to justice, especially for vulnerable groups, and fostering greater social cohesion.
“The CPD also prioritises digitisation to improve governance and service delivery
. UNDP targets a scenario where at least 25 per cent of the population can reliably access essential public services through digital platforms,” states the statement.
These services will include access to justice, healthcare, economic opportunities, and business support.
Officials explained that leveraging digital technologies will help to improve efficiency, accessibility, and transparency in government processes.
“Digitisation is not just about technology. It is about inclusion, ensuring that ordinary citizens, particularly in rural areas, can access the services they need without barriers,” UNDP stated.
The programme also addresses the need to protect Eswatini’s environment while promoting economic growth. By 2030, UNDP aims to mobilise at least $10 million in biodiversity finance through private sector engagement and resource mobilisation.
At the same time, the programme seeks to expand the nation’s renewable energy capacity by at least 4 megawatts, contributing to both energy security and climate resilience.
“These measures will help Eswatini transition towards a greener economy while protecting its rich biodiversity,” UNDP noted.
UNDP has also highlighted the importance of strengthening fiscal and resource management systems.
The CPD sets out to achieve a 3 per cent increase in domestic revenue mobilisation and to expand fiscal space by 5 per cent to support priority investments.
Additionally, the programme seeks to enhance governance and transparency in the management of public and local resources.
Officials stressed that effective financial management is crucial for ensuring that development outcomes are sustainable.
The CPD was developed in close collaboration with the Government of Eswatini and other stakeholders. It aligns with the country’s National Development Plan and responds to key national challenges, including unemployment, inequality, and climate change.
It is also framed within the global and continental development agendas, namely the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, ensuring that Eswatini’s development is part of a broader regional and international effort.
UNDP stressed that the success of the programme will depend on strong partnerships with government, civil society, the private sector, and international development partners. The organisation reiterated its commitment to working alongside all stakeholders to deliver tangible results by 2030.
“This programme is about building on lessons from the past while focusing on the future. It is about strengthening systems, creating opportunities, and ensuring that no one is left behind,” UNDP concluded.
By 2030, the Country Programme Document aims to deliver on five major outcomes:
Justice for those who need it most: At least 50 per cent of justice system users accessing fair, fast, and affordable services
Digitally enabled services for all, at least 25 per cent of the population accessing essential services through digital platforms.
Secure and grow the economy, creation of 5,000 direct jobs and support for 25,000 livelihoods, backed by 4 per cent annual economic growth.
Clean energy and biodiversity protection, $10 million mobilised in biodiversity finance and 4MW of renewable energy added.
Stronger development finance and governance 3 per cent rise in domestic revenue mobilisation and 5 per cent expansion of fiscal space.
Through these outcomes, UNDP seeks to ensure that Eswatini advances toward inclusive, sustainable development and that citizen’s benefit from stronger governance, economic opportunity, and environmental protection.
