By 
By Delisa Magagula
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has announced the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund as part of His Majesty’s Government’s ambitious Programme of Action aimed at boosting national wealth and achieving accelerated economic growth.
Delivering the keynote address at the Eswatini Investment Conference held at Sharma House in Ezulwini, Dlamini outlined a comprehensive economic strategy under the theme ‘Igniting wealth and well-being for the Nation’
“I am happy to share that His Majesty’s Government will be establishing a Sovereign Wealth Fund to enhance national wealth creation for emaSwati and support continuous growth and development,” Dlamini said.
The Prime Minister stated that the Programme of Action is expected to create a business-ready environment that attracts large-scale foreign direct investment (FDI) into Eswatini. The government has set a bold target of not less than 12% annual economic growth.
“We are working towards a transformative agenda one that will result in high-impact investment, improved public service delivery, and inclusive development,” he said.
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Dlamini said the Programme of Action also focuses on good governance, policy reform, and investment in key social and economic sectors.
“It seeks to ensure effective public service delivery that addresses social challenges, enables investment in infrastructure, harnesses information communication technology, and channels resources for health, education, and skills development,” he said.
He emphasized that the government’s development plans are mindful of environmental sustainability.
“We are cognizant that such interventions should be mindful of the sustainability of our planet,” he added.
Highlighting recent progress, Dlamini said the country was already moving forward under the guidance of His Majesty King Mswati III.
“We are happy to share that under His Majesty’s leadership, we are gaining traction in several areas,” he said.
He cited the recent commissioning of the E5 billion Strategic Oil Reserve project, which aims to secure the country’s energy future.
“Three weeks ago, His Majesty commissioned the construction of the Strategic Oil Reserve, a project worth more than E5 billion,” Dlamini told delegates.
He also announced the official launch of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) earlier that morning, a new service designed to simplify the investor experience.
“We recently launched BOSS, which will streamline service delivery for investors,” he said.
Dlamini pointed to Eswatini’s economic performance over recent years, stating that the country has outpaced the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) average.
“Over the past few years, Eswatini’s economy has posted an average growth of 4.6%, above the SACU average,” he said.
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The Prime Minister said projections for 2025 are even stronger.
“We are forecasting 7.9% growth for the year ahead, but we want that growth to translate into meaningful development jobs, skills, opportunities for emaSwati.” He said.
He closed by reaffirming government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for sustainable investment and national development.
“With the Sovereign Wealth Fund, improved investor services, and a clear vision for the future, we are laying the foundation for a prosperous Eswatini,” Dlamini said.
