AGP Executive Report

Health Access & Sustainability: King Mswati III inaugurated the E200m Khanyisile Hee Yeon Medical Centre in Ezulwini, urging government and partners to protect it and complete remaining phases so specialised services can keep serving communities long-term. Energy & Environment Regulation: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy began consultations on draft rules to curb substandard electrical and electronic products, aiming to improve public safety, energy efficiency, environmental sustainability and consumer protection. Clean Water & Emissions Focus: In his Independence message, King Charles III praised Eswatini’s efforts to tackle environmental challenges and build resilience, while also highlighting the UK–Eswatini partnership. Digital Transformation: EPTC is seeking a US$26m (E455m) World Bank-backed loan for the Digital Eswatini Project, and retail/wholesale firms are lining up for the e-invoicing pilot to modernise tax administration. Tourism Safety: The Eswatini Tourism Authority warned against “overnight” informal accommodation rentals that bypass grading and inspections, risking fire, sanitation and consumer protection failures. Green Youth Innovation: MTN Eswatini launched the PachiPanda Challenge for youth solutions under “Nature Meets Innovation,” pushing ideas for the green economy. Wildlife Crime Alert: Police found explosives hidden in Peak Timbers forest, with preliminary links to illegal mining—raising fresh concerns for environmental crime enforcement.

Healthcare Access: His Majesty King Mswati III opened the renamed Khanyisile Hee Yeon Clinic in Nyonyane, saying it beats the healthcare access target by bringing services within five kilometres and supporting universal health coverage gains. Energy & Environment Regulation: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has started nationwide consultations on draft rules to curb substandard electrical and electronic products, aiming to protect public safety, improve energy efficiency and strengthen environmental sustainability. Wildlife & Land Protection: Police found explosives hidden in Peak Timbers forest, with preliminary links to suspected illegal mining—raising fresh concerns about environmental crime and human safety. Indigenous Knowledge & Climate Resilience: Eswatini’s indigenous knowledge sector was valued at over E50 million annually, as officials push to document practices and use them to strengthen health systems, climate resilience and livelihoods. Green Innovation for Youth: MTN Eswatini launched the 2026/27 PachiPanda Challenge, inviting young people to build sustainable solutions for a green economy under “Nature Meets Innovation.” Tourism Safety: The Eswatini Tourism Authority warned against “overnight” informal accommodation rentals during festivals, saying ungraded, uninspected stays can breach safety rules and undermine consumer protection.

Climate Policy: King Mswati III announced Eswatini’s Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0, pledging to cut 2.24 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, with an estimated E43 billion needed to deliver the plan. Energy & Environment Regulation: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has started nationwide consultations on draft 2026 regulations to crack down on substandard electrical and electronic products, improve energy efficiency, and protect public safety and consumers. Tourism Safety & Compliance: The Eswatini Tourism Authority warned that informal “overnight” rentals during major events can breach bed-levy rules and municipal standards, risking visitor safety due to lack of grading and inspections. Green Economy Youth: MTN Eswatini launched the 2026/27 PachiPanda Challenge, inviting youth to build sustainable solutions for the green economy under “Nature Meets Innovation.” Capital Markets: The Eswatini Stock Exchange unveiled its Kwakhanya 2030 strategy to reposition the bourse as a driver of wealth creation and economic transformation. Forest Crime Watch: Police found explosives hidden in Peak Timbers forest, with preliminary links to illegal mining, prompting an investigation.

Climate Policy: King Mswati III announced Eswatini’s Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0, targeting a 2.24 million tonnes greenhouse gas cut by 2035, with about E43 billion needed to deliver the plan. Water Security: In the Speech from the Throne, the King urged accelerated investment and regional cooperation to reach clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% of people already have access. Energy & Environment Regulation: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy began consultations on draft 2026 regulations to crack down on substandard electrical and electronic products and improve energy efficiency and public safety. Biodiversity & Illegal Mining: Police found explosives hidden in Peak Timbers forest, with preliminary links to illegal mining—raising fresh concerns for environmental crime enforcement. Digital Transformation: EPTC is seeking a US$26m (E455m) World Bank loan for the Digital Eswatini Project, backed by a government guarantee bill. Tourism Safety: The Eswatini Tourism Authority warned against “overnight” informal accommodation rentals, saying ungraded, uninspected stays can endanger visitors and undermine bed levy rules. Green Youth Innovation: MTN Eswatini launched the 2026/27 PachiPanda Challenge, calling on youth to build sustainable solutions for the green economy. Women in Agriculture: Applications for the Woman Farmer of the Year Competition close Friday, September 11.

Climate Policy Update: King Mswati III announced Eswatini’s Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0, targeting a cut of 2.24 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, with about E43 billion needed to deliver the plan. Water Security: In the Speech from the Throne, the King urged accelerated investment and regional cooperation to reach clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% of the population already has access. Energy & Environment Regulation: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy launched nationwide consultations on draft 2026 regulations to curb substandard electrical and electronic products, improve energy efficiency, and protect public safety and environmental sustainability. Wildlife/Forest Safety: Police found explosives hidden in Peak Timbers forest, with preliminary links to illegal mining; an investigation is underway. Indigenous Knowledge & Resilience: A SADC workshop heard that indigenous crafts, agriculture and medicine contribute over E50m annually, with calls to document practices to strengthen climate resilience and health systems. Tourism Safety & Compliance: The Eswatini Tourism Authority warned against “overnight” informal accommodation rentals that bypass grading and inspections, risking safety and undermining the bed levy system. Green Economy Innovation: MTN Eswatini launched the 2026/27 PachiPanda Challenge, inviting youth to build sustainable solutions under “Nature Meets Innovation: Unlocking Africa’s Green Economy.”

SADC Chairmanship Prep: Eswatini has kicked off a government-wide induction to prepare ministries and agencies for its SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation chairmanship, with a Sept 8–10 programme covering peace, security, policing, immigration, corrections, anti-corruption, refugees, and parks & wildlife. E-invoicing Pilot: Retail and wholesale businesses have stepped forward to volunteer for the Eswatini Revenue Service’s Electronic Invoicing Solution pilot, signalling growing readiness for digital tax administration. Green Economy for Youth: MTN Eswatini launched the 2026/27 PachiPanda Challenge, inviting young innovators (18–35) to build sustainable solutions under “Nature Meets Innovation: Unlocking Africa’s Green Economy.” Climate & Energy Efficiency: Stakeholders are being consulted on Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting, while Eswatini also faces El Niño warnings of hotter conditions and drought risk. Environmental Security: Police found explosives hidden in Peak Timbers forest, with preliminary links to illegal mining, renewing pressure to crack down on environmental crimes. Water & Emissions Commitments: King Mswati III announced a Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0 plan to cut 2.24 million tonnes of greenhouse gases by 2035, and urged accelerated investment to secure clean water for all by 2030.

Climate & Water Security: King Mswati III says Eswatini has submitted its Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0 and targets cutting 2.24 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, with about E43 billion needed to deliver. He also renewed calls for clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% of people already have access. Weather Risk: Eswatini Meteorological Services warns of a very strong El Niño from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027, with eastern areas potentially exceeding 40°C and a seasonal rainfall pattern that could bring heavy rain in parts of the Highveld. Energy Efficiency Policy: MNRE, ESERA and the EEA invite stakeholders to comment on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting, with consultation workshops in Hhohho, Manzini, Shiselweni and Lubombo. Environmental Crime: Police found explosives hidden in Peak Timbers forest, with preliminary links to illegal mining; an investigation is underway. Green Economy & Business: UNDP urges Eswatini businesses to adopt technology and resource efficiency for sustainable growth, while Government backs making the Mavuso Trade hub year-round to support ongoing enterprise and investment. Youth Innovation: MTN Eswatini launches the PachiPanda Challenge under “Nature Meets Innovation,” inviting youth to build sustainable solutions for the green economy.

Climate Policy: King Mswati III announced Eswatini’s Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0, targeting a 2.24 million-tonne greenhouse gas cut by 2035, and said the country will reform laws and strengthen institutions to deliver it. Water Security: In his Speech from the Throne, the King urged accelerated investment and regional cooperation to reach clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% of the population already has access. Energy Efficiency: MNRE, ESERA and EEA invited stakeholders to comment on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting, with consultation workshops starting 8 September. El Niño Watch: Eswatini braces for a very strong El Niño season (Oct 2026–Mar 2027), with forecasts pointing to above-normal temperatures and a high chance of historic conditions. Environmental Crime: Police found explosives hidden in Peak Timbers forest on 4 September and linked the discovery to suspected illegal mining, warning of risks to people and the environment. Energy Costs & Competitiveness: The EU flagged rising energy costs as a threat to MSMEs and urged partnerships to protect development gains. Local Growth & Green Farming: Agriculture leaders pushed green production and high-value crops, including agroprocessing and composting/renewables, to unlock sustainable trade opportunities.

Climate Policy: King Mswati III says Eswatini has submitted its Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0 and plans to cut 2.24 million tonnes of greenhouse gases by 2035, with an estimated E43 billion needed to deliver. Water Security: In his Speech from the Throne, the King urged accelerated investment and regional cooperation to reach clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% of the population already has access. El Niño Watch: Eswatini Meteorological Services warns of a very strong El Niño from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027, with eastern areas facing very high temperatures (over 40°C possible) and seasonal rainfall patterns under close monitoring. Energy Efficiency & Standards: MNRE, with ESERA and EEA, invites public input on Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting, with consultation workshops starting 8 September. Energy Ownership & Investment: PM Russell Dlamini calls for energy partnerships that build local ownership—targeting over 1,000MW domestic generation by 2030 and pushing Independent Power Producers to be developers and owners, not just contractors. Capital Markets: The Eswatini Stock Exchange unveiled “Kwakhanya 2030” to reposition the bourse as a driver of wealth creation and business growth through capital markets. Business & Green Agriculture: Agriculture leaders urged green production and high-value crops, including composting and renewable energy-linked opportunities, while officials pushed MSMEs to move from survival to productivity and competitiveness. Local Recognition: Mbabane City Council won best exhibitor and innovation awards at the Eswatini International Trade Fair, as government backs turning Mavuso into a permanent trade and investment hub.

Climate Policy: King Mswati III announced Eswatini’s Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0, targeting a 2.24 million tonnes greenhouse-gas cut by 2035, with an estimated E43 billion needed to deliver. Water Security: In the Speech from the Throne, he urged accelerated investment and regional cooperation to reach clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% of the population already has access. El Niño Watch: Eswatini Meteorological Services says El Niño is likely to be historic, with above-normal temperatures and a strong chance of drought-like conditions from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027. Energy Efficiency & Standards: MNRE, ESERA and EEA invited stakeholders to comment on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting. Energy Sector Push: Government says it wants indigenous ownership in power—targeting 1,000MW+ by 2030 and opening the sector to IPPs as developers, investors and owners. Business & Finance for Sustainability: ESE unveiled its Kwakhanya 2030 capital markets strategy, while UNDP urged smarter tech and energy management for MSMEs. Local Economy & Trade: Mbabane City Council won best exhibitor at the Eswatini International Trade Fair as plans for a permanent Mavuso trade hub move forward.

Climate Policy: King Mswati III says Eswatini will cut 2.24 million tonnes of greenhouse gases by 2035 and has submitted its Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0, backed by about E43 billion and plans to strengthen laws and institutions. Water Security: In his Speech from the Throne, the King urged accelerated investment and regional cooperation to reach clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% access so far. Extreme Weather Watch: Eswatini Meteorological Service warns of a very strong El Niño from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027, with eastern areas possibly exceeding 40°C and drought risk rising. Energy Transition: Government invited stakeholders to comment on Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances, while the PM pushed for indigenous energy ownership and opened the sector to IPPs as developers and owners. Business & Energy Costs: EU and UNDP voices at EITF-linked forums warned rising energy costs are squeezing MSMEs, urging smarter efficiency investments. Capital Markets: The Eswatini Stock Exchange launched “Kwakhanya 2030” to reposition the bourse as a driver of wealth creation and business growth. Soil & Farming: Farmers were urged to test soil health and use targeted inputs to fight erosion, overgrazing, nutrient loss and changing weather. Public Health Recall: NCC recalled WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo after bacteria concerns, including exports to Eswatini.

Climate Policy: King Mswati III announced Eswatini’s Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0, targeting a 2.24 million tonnes greenhouse-gas cut by 2035, with about E43 billion needed to deliver it. Water Security: In his Speech from the Throne, he urged accelerated investment and regional cooperation to reach clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% of the population already has access. Energy Transition: PM Russell Dlamini said Eswatini aims to exceed 1,000MW of domestic generation by 2030 and opened the sector to Independent Power Producers as developers and owners, not just contractors. Energy Efficiency Rules: MNRE, ESERA and EEA invited stakeholders to comment on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting, with consultation workshops in multiple regions this week. El Niño Watch: Meteorological forecasts warn of a very strong El Niño season from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027, with eastern areas possibly exceeding 40°C and rainfall patterns shifting. Business & Growth: Government and partners pushed MSMEs to move from survival to growth, while UNDP urged smarter, need-based technology and energy management to protect profitability. Capital Markets: The Eswatini Stock Exchange unveiled “Kwakhanya 2030” to reposition the bourse as a national engine for wealth creation and investment.

Climate Policy: King Mswati III unveiled Eswatini’s Paris Agreement-compliant NDC 3.0, targeting a 2.24 million-tonne greenhouse gas cut by 2035, with an estimated E43 billion needed to deliver it. Water Security: In his Speech from the Throne, the King urged accelerated investment and regional cooperation to reach clean water for all by 2030, noting 75% of the population already has access. Energy Transition & Local Ownership: PM Russell Dlamini called for “Africa First” energy ownership, saying Eswatini aims to exceed 1,000MW of domestic generation by 2030 and wants investors to build local capacity—not just act as contractors. El Niño Warning: Eswatini Meteorological Services warned of a very strong El Niño season (Oct 2026–Mar 2027), with eastern areas facing very hot conditions and rainfall patterns under close monitoring. Energy Efficiency Standards: MNRE, with ESERA and EEA, invited stakeholders to comment on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting. Green Agriculture: Government urged farmers to shift to green production and high-value crops, linking composting, renewable energy and agro-processing to sustainable trade. Tourism & Environment: The Reed Dance boosted tourism, with international visitor numbers rising and revenue reaching E1 billion.

El Niño Watch: Eswatini Meteorological Services says a very strong El Niño is likely from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027, with eastern areas possibly hitting above 40°C and a seasonal rainfall pattern under close monitoring. Energy Standards Consultations: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, with ESERA and EEA, invites public input on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for fridges, air conditioners and lighting, with workshops in Hhohho, Manzini, Shiselweni and Lubombo. Power for Industry: PM Russell Dlamini says Eswatini aims to exceed 1,000MW of domestic generation by 2030 and has opened the electricity sector to IPPs as developers, investors and owners—not just contractors. Local Ownership Push: Dlamini also calls for “Africa First” energy partnerships that build jobs, skills and indigenous companies, linking energy investment to industrialisation. Green Agribusiness: Agriculture leaders urge farmers to shift to green production and high-value crops like coffee, ginger, bamboo and turmeric, with agro-processing and renewable opportunities. Business Costs & Efficiency: EU and UNDP voices warn that rising energy costs and inefficient operations are squeezing MSMEs, urging smarter tech and energy management that makes business sense. Climate-Smart Finance & Markets: Government challenges MSMEs to connect training, finance and market access, while Eswatini’s Stock Exchange plans a capital markets seminar during the Trade Fair. Soil Health Reminder: Farmers are urged to test soils and use liming to reverse fertility loss from erosion, overgrazing and nutrient mining.

El Niño Alert: Eswatini Meteorological Services warns of a very strong El Niño from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027, with eastern areas possibly hitting above 40°C and a seasonal split in rainfall (Highveld 400–500mm vs Lowveld 200–300mm), urging the public to watch updates. Energy Efficiency Consultations: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, with ESERA and EEA, invites stakeholders to comment on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for appliances like fridges, air conditioners and lighting, with workshops in Hhohho, Manzini, Shiselweni and Lubombo from 8–11 Sept. Energy Security Push: PM Russell Dlamini says Eswatini aims to exceed 1,000MW of domestic generation by 2030 and expand local ownership through hydropower, biomass cogeneration, clean coal and solar with storage, while opening the sector to IPPs as developers and owners. Green Agribusiness & Soil Health: Agriculture leaders urge a shift to green production and high-value crops (coffee, ginger, bamboo, turmeric) plus agro-processing, while soil experts stress soil sampling and liming to fight erosion, overgrazing and nutrient loss. Business Costs & Competitiveness: EU and UNDP voices at the Powering Profit Symposium warn that rising energy costs are squeezing MSMEs, calling for smarter, need-based technology and renewable energy that actually cuts operating costs. Local Climate Tech: A young entrepreneur is using AI tools to help smallholder farmers anticipate weather risks, plan irrigation and diagnose pests—linking climate resilience with better farm decision-making and records.

Energy Standards Consultations: Eswatini’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, with ESERA and the EEA, invited stakeholders to comment on proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards for fridges, air conditioners and lighting, with workshops set across Hhohho, Manzini, Shiselweni and Lubombo. El Niño Drought Watch: The Eswatini Meteorological Service warned of a very strong El Niño from Oct 2026 to Mar 2027, with a 90%+ chance of El Niño conditions and a historic likelihood, plus warmer-than-normal temperatures. Power for Industry: PM Russell Dlamini said Eswatini aims to exceed 1,000MW of domestic generation by 2030 and has opened the sector to IPPs as developers and owners, not just contractors—linking energy security to jobs and industrialisation. Business Costs and Growth: At the Powering Profit Symposium, the EU flagged rising energy costs as a threat to MSMEs, while Government urged firms to move from survival to growth through productivity, technology and better market access. Green Farming Push: Agriculture leaders called for green production and high-value crops (coffee, ginger, bamboo, turmeric) plus agro-processing and renewable opportunities. Trade Fair Expansion & Green Prizes: King Mswati III urged urgent expansion of EITF facilities as exhibitor numbers outgrew Mavuso, and the fair rolled out green-economy prizes like electric scooters and eco-tourism packages. Climate-Security Link: Eswatini urged the AU to act on conflict warnings early, warning that climate stress and migration can trigger instability.