To make its services more accessible and convenient, the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA) has partnered with the Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC) to decentralise access to licence application forms.
The partnership enables licence applications in the electricity and petroleum sectors, regulated by ESERA.
Within the electricity sector, available licence application forms include Generation Licence and/or Exemption, Supply Licence, Distribution Licence, Transmission Licence, Export Licence, and Import Licence.
In the petroleum sector, available forms include the Petroleum Wholesale Licence, Commercial Consumer Licence, Petroleum Retail Licence, LPG Wholesale Licence, and LPG Retail Licence.
The initiative was officially announced at Mountain View in Mbabane by ESERA Chief Executive Officer, Sikhumbuzo Tsabedze, who said the move addresses a long-standing challenge in public service delivery.
“ESERA is a Category A parastatal. It is deliberately small in size because other institutions can support our operations,” he explained. “The previous board developed a strategy, endorsed by Cabinet, which called for an expanded footprint even as we remain lean. This partnership is one way to achieve that.”
Tsabedze recalled that during implementation, they observed a rise in people transporting fuel in cans, emphasising the need for greater public access to regulatory services. “Fuel is a dangerous regulated product. It must be licensed,” he said. “We must ensure that EmaSwati, especially those far from Mbabane, can obtain the licences required by law.”
While ESERA has embraced digital platforms, Tsabedze mentioned that many people still lack reliable internet access or digital literacy. “One of our core values is accessibility. That’s why we’re utilising the extensive network of post offices. This makes it easier for citizens to apply, especially in rural areas.”
He added that the initiative also tackles safety concerns. “In winter, we’ve seen people burn coal or use fuel improperly, leading to fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. This partnership helps regulate usage through easier licensing.” he said.
“A lot of people don’t realise that LPG, which is commonly referred to as Handigas, is a regulated and dangerous product.”
Representing EPTC Managing Director Themba Khumalo, Chief Postal Officer Sabelo Dube welcomed the collaboration, confirming that Eswatini has 36 post offices nationwide. “We are proud to serve as a communication channel for ESERA. Our staff will assist at all outlets, and all completed forms will be sent to ESERA for processing.”
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