By Sizwe Dlamini
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has unveiled Eswatini’s ambitious “Nkwe” Programme of Action, a strategic initiative aimed at achieving a 12% annual GDP growth rate by 2028.
The Premier revealed this during the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) High-Level Segment of the 2024 Annual Retreat held at the UN Headquarters in Mbabane.
This bold target is central to Eswatini’s vision of transitioning from a middle-income to a high-income country, positioning itself from a developing nation to a developed one. The programme reflects a broader commitment to improving the well-being and quality of life for all citizens.
The retreat brought together key stakeholders, including Cabinet ministers, government officials, UN Resident Coordinator George Wachira, UN representatives, international development partners, and industry leaders.
The theme of the retreat, “Nkwe and SDG Acceleration – Assessing Progress, Addressing Challenges, and Identifying Opportunities,” highlights the commitment of His Majesty’s Government to advancing the SDGs both in Eswatini and globally.
In his address, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s focus on transformative development, with the primary objective of uplifting the 58.9% of the population currently living in poverty. The “Nkwe” Programme of Action reflects a broader commitment to improving the well-being and quality of life for all citizens through rapid economic growth and targeted interventions.
The government aims for transformational development, emphasizing rapid economic growth and addressing critical issues such as poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity. Ensuring that 100% of EmaSwati have access to essential services like water, electricity, and quality healthcare.
Dlamini added that energy security is a central component of the programme. “The government plans to maintain 100% renewable electricity generation while developing over 120 megawatts of renewable energy. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of transitioning Eswatini towards a green economy,” he said.
The PM, however, acknowledged the necessity of a balanced energy mix due to the impacts of climate change, particularly during droughts. To support industrialization and ensure energy reliability, the government will also utilize local minerals to generate clean energy.
“The theme of today’s session, “Nkwe and SDG Acceleration – Assessing Progress, Addressing Challenges, and Identifying Opportunities,” is particularly resonant with the government’s collective aspirations. His Majesty King Mswati III’s rallying call of ‘Nkwe!’ demands decisive action, urging us to accelerate our development efforts,” he concluded.