Mbabane- The Mkhondvo-Ngwavuma Augumentation Program (MNWAP) Phase 1 project is set to provide significant benefits to the Shiselweni region, with an estimated 4, 600 farmer households, expected to see a projected income increase of at least E158,750.
This initiative, which forms part of Eswatini’s ongoing efforts to address climate change challenges, aims to enhance agricultural productivity, improve water security, and foster socio-economic development.
The Commercial Director at Eswatini Water and Agricultural Enterprise, Musa Masilela emphasized the importance of the project in supporting the government’s strategy for sustainable development.
“Climate change has brought about extreme weather patterns,” he noted. The Director added that the nation’s water levels aren’t the same throughout the year, so constructing more dams the nation can ensure better storage and mitigate the risks.
The project’s goals go beyond water security but go as far as stimulating economic growth, alleviating poverty, empowering communities through enhanced food security, job creation, and economic development.
“The transformation of the Shiselweni region through this project is not just about farming, its about empowering individuals to stand on their own, create income, and contribute to the economy,” said Masilela.
As the project progresses, the completion of the Mpakeni Dam in 2028 will mark the beginning of the long-term impacts of the MNWAP, with Phase 1 of production projected to begin 2030.
With its focus on agricultural development, infrastructure, and sustainable project management, the MNWAP promises to improve the lives of families and stimulate economic growth, particularly in the Southern region of Eswatini.
….EWADE pens a deal with Isiphethu, Lasicon, and Consult Co JV
In a significant leap toward transforming Eswatini’s agricultural sector, the Mkhondvo-Ngwavuma Water Augumentation (MNWAP) has secured a pivotal E157 million contract for the supervision of its Mpakeni main Conveyance System.
The official hand over of the contract was held at the Royal Villas Hotel. Ezulwini last week. The contract is for the consultancy services related to the construction supervision of the Mpakeni Dam main conveyance pipeline, secondary distribution, and on-farm development.
The signing ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including EWADE officials and the joint venture representatives, who are set to oversee the project’s execution.
Kensington Muchawunweyi, representing the joint venture, emphasized the far-reaching impact of the project, calling “prestigious” not only for its technical challenges but also for its potential to improve the lives of thousands of Emaswati.
“The essence of this project is poverty alleviation.” He added that the success of this initiative will protect and uplift 100,000 lives.
Making his keynote address, EWADE CEO Samson Sithole, underscored the importance of local involvement in the project, in line with Eswatini’s Construction Industry Council (CIC) Act.
“This collaboration not only brings in expertise but ensures that our local workforce can step up to larger roles as we continue to develop critical infrastructure for Eswatini,” Sithole explained.
The joint venture sees Isiphethu Engineers, a South African company, holding a 60% stake, while the two local companies, Lasicon and Consult Co. share the remaining 40%. This partnership ensures that Emaswati benefit from skills transfer and gain the expertise needed to contribute to future phases of the project.
The MNWAP aligns with the country’s broader goals for sustainable development, particularly Eswatini’s 2030 vision. Musa Masilela, EWADE’s Commercial Director, outlined the transformative potential of the project, which aims to increase agricultural productivity, improve food security, reduce poverty, especially in the Shiselweni region. The project’s long-term plans include constructing three dams -Mpakeni, Ethemba, and a third yet-to-be-finalized location-to irrigate up to 30, 000 hectares of land.
“Agriculture is central to Eswatini’s future,” Masilela remarked. By improving water access and crop yields, we can enhance food security, meet domestic demands, and create economic opportunities for farmers.”
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