
By Phiwa Sikhondze
To ease the financial burden on Eswatini’s citizens, the government through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, has reviewed the previously announced electricity tariff hike, originally set at 14.67%.
The hike for the financial year 2025/26 has now been set at 8%, while for the 2026/27 financial year it has been set at 7%.
This decision shared by the Minister of the aforementioned Ministry, Prince Lonkhokhela, at a press conference held today at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini, follows a review by the government.
According to the Minister, the government is dedicated to balancing the needs of both consumers and the energy sector. “This reduction reflects our determination to ensure that electricity remains affordable for all emaSwati, particularly in the face of the already tough economic conditions,” the Minister noted.
“Electricity consumers are encouraged to avoid wasteful consumption of electricity and adopt demand-side management practices and save power. This responsibility falls squarely in the hands of consumers and should go a long way in reducing unnecessary waste and high electricity bills,” the Minister urged.
Noting the financial gap that had triggered the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) to apply for the hike, the Prince pledged the government’s commitment to intervene and fill the gap.
“The Government will engage with EEC to ensure that the funding gap as a result of this intervention is addressed and met most prudently to ensure that EEC continues with normal operations,” he said.
Furthermore, the Minister expressed appreciation for the public’s input during the public consultations, as well as for the ongoing support from the EEC and the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA) in the process.

The Minister also acknowledged the leadership and guidance of His Majesty King Mswati III, whose counsel has played a crucial role in shaping the government’s approach to the issue.
“I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Emaswati for their input during the public consultations, EEC and ESERA. More profoundly, His Majesty’s leadership and wise counsel and guidance were given to us Cabinet at all times. I thank the Honorable Prime Minister, Hon. DPM, and cabinet for their full support on this important matter of plight,” he said.