Mbabane-The European Union has awarded a grant of E15 million to the Government of Eswatini to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with a particular focus on smallholder farmers, agribusinesses, and manufacturing businesses. The grant aims to assist these businesses in integrating renewable energy and improving energy efficiency as part of a four-year readiness programme running from 2025 to 2028.
This initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, with implementation support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The project is designed to help local businesses adopt renewable energy technologies, driving efficiency and profitability while contributing to sustainable economic growth.
The grant is also expected to enhance energy resilience in Eswatini, empowering businesses to make innovative, green investments that will benefit both the environment and the economy.
A formal announcement event will take place on Monday, 17 March 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Mountain View Hotel in Mbabane. The event will feature Hon. Dr. Tambo Gina, the Minister of Economic Planning and Development; HRH Prince Lonkhokhela, the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy; EU Ambassador to Eswatini His Excellency Mr. Karsten Mecklenburg; and UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Henrik Franklin.