Mbabane- Eswatini has been granted accreditation for fuel testing by Southern African Development Community Accreditation Services( SADCAS), certificate was handed over to Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, Prince Lonkhokhela.
The Minister together with members of the SADC were touring at the ESERA fuel testing laboratory, according to CEO Sikhumbuzo Tsabedze Eswatini has become one of only four countries in the continent to get accreditation from the SADC accreditation body which happened on the 11th of March 2024.
The Minister expressed his overwhelming joy and gratitude towards the success of the project. He mentioned during interview that the country used to sample fuel in South Africa, and cost E14 000 each test. Fortunately enough the ESERA has worked tirelessly to make certain that fuel testing happens locally. “ This is a significant milestone, not only for our organisation, but for the Country at large , as we strive towards excellence in ensuring that good quality petroleum products are consumed in Eswatini, in accordance with industry standards” said the Ministry.
He also mentioned that other countries in the continent would be bringing their fuel for testing and they will be working on legislation and regulations to inform the practice. This will help in economy of the country, as different countries will be paying money to get their fuel tested. Tsabedze, mentioned that the reality was that there was a lot of fuel adulteration which happens in the region, so now as one of the labouraties; it meant Eswatini was now going to be one of the key players in terms of conducting tests.
According to the regulator, the laboratory is the only provider of fuel testing services in the country and it’s accreditation brought about international recognition, as global markets would accept the country’s result more readily, knowing that the laboratory was accredited. Doctor Makhaya said “ it an accomplished to receive accreditation, but it’s an even greater achievement to maintain accreditation “ meaning that a lot needs to be done for it to continue being a success.
