By Ayanda Dlamini
Ubombo Sugar Limited (USL) has taken another decisive step toward strengthening Eswatini’s energy security by signing a E850 million Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract with India’s ISGEC Heavy Engineering Ltd.
The contract signing at the Hilton Garden Inn took place less than 24 hours after Ubombo finalized its significant 40MW power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Eswatini Electricity Company, a deal supported by ABF Sugar through a substantial E1.5 billion investment commitment.
The EPC contract officially marks the start of the implementation phase of the energy expansion project, which is scheduled to reach commercial operation by June 2028.
Speaking at the ceremony, USL Managing Director Muzi Siyaya called the agreement a moment of national importance.
“Today is more than just a contract signing; it is a commitment to the people of Eswatini. The strict delivery deadlines in this EPC agreement demonstrate our commitment to disciplined, efficient, and punctual execution. This project will provide the energy capacity our nation desperately needs, without delays,” he said.
…Why Isgec was chosen: experience, capability, and global credentials
ISGEC Heavy Engineering Ltd became the preferred EPC partner after Ubombo Sugar described the process as intense, merit-based, and highly competitive.
The company’s choice is based on a mix of experience, skill, and worldwide reputation.
With over 90 years of experience in engineering, sugar processing, power systems, and industrial plant solutions, ISGEC offers unparalleled expertise in the industry.
Its highly diversified portfolio, spanning power generation, oil and gas, environmental engineering, steel, cement, and other advanced industrial processes, positions the company as a comprehensive, one-stop solution provider for complex EPC projects.
ISGEC’s vertically integrated, in-house manufacturing facilities for boilers, pressure vessels, castings, process equipment, and heavy structures provide greater control over quality, cost, and delivery timelines, reducing project execution risk.
Additionally, its strong technology partnerships with global leaders such as Hitachi Zosen and Titan Metal Fabricators ensure access to advanced engineering solutions tailored to current industrial needs.
The company also boasts a proven track record across Africa, particularly in delivering high-efficiency boilers and power systems for major sugar and industrial clients.
Overall, these qualities make ISGEC a partner that combines experience, dependability, and technical expertise, qualities that Ubombo recognized as vital for a project of national significance.
According to Ubombo Sugar, these factors made Isgec an ideal fit in terms of experience, reliability, and technical depth.
ISGEC’s head of international marketing, Yogesh Marwah, said that the company is honored to be chosen for a project of such national importance.
“ISGEC’s relationship with the sugar industry goes back to our founding. We understand the technology, the operational pressures, and the performance expectations.”
“Our 90-year legacy in engineering, our vertically integrated manufacturing, and our global collaborations allow us to deliver world-class solutions. We are proud to partner with Ubombo Sugar in advancing Eswatini’s energy landscape,” said Marwah.
Siyaya noted that only a few companies worldwide can produce the advanced boiler plant required for this project. These specialized manufacturers are based in just three countries—France, China, and India—highlighting the technical precision and global expertise needed for the initiative.