Eswatini Sugar has donated E170,000 to support environmental conservation, healthcare access, and youth sports in Eswatini, underscoring its commitment to community development despite challenging market conditions.
The announcement was made at the company’s headquarters in Mbabane on Tuesday. The funds were allocated to three beneficiaries: Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC), the Rotary Club of Mbabane, and the Eswatini Schools Sports Association. The announcement was made at the company’s Mbabane headquarters, with media, partners, and staff in attendance.
Addressing attendees, Eswatini Sugar CEO Banele Nyamane emphasized the company’s enduring dedication to improving the lives of disadvantaged groups across the country. “We are here today because we are an organization that believes steadfastly in improving the lives of disadvantaged groups in Eswatini, as far as we can. Equally, we recognize the role played by the organizations we partner with to achieve this,” said Nyamane.
Despite challenging market conditions, including the collapse in sugar prices and adverse weather that reduced members’ returns, Nyamane highlighted that Eswatini Sugar contributed E1.7 million to various initiatives in the 2025/26 financial year. “Even though our financial fortunes are not looking good, today we are pleased to announce an additional E170,000 in donations to three strategic and important causes,” he said.
The donations were allocated as follows:
Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC): E50,000
The contribution will support the upcoming Earth Hour Commemoration on March 28, a global initiative that encourages energy conservation and environmental stewardship. “By supporting the Big Switch Off, we are not just turning off our lights; we are turning on a powerful message that, together, we can conserve energy, protect our environment, and shape a more sustainable future for everyone,” Nyamane explained.
EEC’s Environmental Specialist, Dr. Constance Van Zuydam, expressed appreciation for the support and emphasized the importance of collaborative action on climate change.
“This generous donation will go a long way in raising awareness and supporting activities ahead of Earth Hour. Climate change affects us all, and it is crucial that industry, professionals, and individuals come together to promote sustainable practices.”
Rotary Club of Mbabane: E70,000
The donation will support the Club’s Medical & Dental Health Outreach Programme in Ndzevane in March, which provides essential healthcare services to children and communities in remote areas. Funds will be used to acquire a mobile dental unit, improving the quality and reach of care. Bafana Mhlabane, President of the Mbabane Rotary Club, thanked the Association for its continued support over the years. “Eswatini Sugar has been a partner in this programme for 18 years, and their support has been instrumental in enabling us to serve thousands of people who would otherwise have limited access to healthcare,” Mhlabane said.
Eswatini Schools Sports Association: E50,000
The contribution will support the National Schools Athletics Competition in March, promoting physical activity, wellness, and talent development among school-going children. Bongani Siyaya, Inspector of Schools, noted that physical education is now part of the national curriculum and that the partnership with Eswatini Sugar reinforces investment in children’s development. “An investment in children is an investment in the future,” Siyaya said.
Nyamane concluded by acknowledging the limitations of the company’s resources and urging beneficiaries to use the funds effectively. “Resources are never ever adequate to meet the dire need on the ground. But we remain hopeful that with this modest contribution, you can be our hands and feet in the work that we are not able to directly carry out ourselves,” he said.