MBABANE – Government has responded to growing public questions around the Siphofaneni–Sithobela–Maloma–Nsoko and Maloma–Siphambanweni road project, assuring citizens that the development is progressing within transparent and internationally recognised procurement processes.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport confirmed this week that preparations for the MR21/MR14 road infrastructure project are advancing, following approval and funding secured through a loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB). The project is designed to boost economic growth, improve road connectivity in rural Eswatini, and create local job opportunities.
According to the Ministry, the project falls under the Open Competitive Bidding – International (OCBI) model as outlined in the AfDB Procurement Framework, meaning the tender is open to all contractors from AfDB member states, including Eswatini. Concerns raised around the project’s bid security requirements — ranging from 1% to 3% of the estimated project cost — were addressed as standard procedure for large-scale projects of this nature.
Previous infrastructure projects with similar requirements included the Manzini–Mbadlane Highway (E23 million bid security) and the Manzini Golf Course Interchange (E13.57 million), both of which attracted bids from emaSwati contractors. One was even implemented by a local firm.
The Ministry also clarified that local contractors are encouraged to participate either individually or through joint ventures. Furthermore, 30% of the civil works has been earmarked for subcontracting to local service providers. Additional project components will be tendered under National Competitive Bidding (NCB), strictly for domestic companies.
Government criticised media reports alleging exclusion of local players and lack of transparency, stating that the General Procurement Notice was published on 6 December 2024 in both local and international platforms, giving interested bidders six months to prepare.
Oversight for the entire procurement process rests with the AfDB, and every step — from bid invitation to final award — is reviewed by the Bank. This measure is in place as Eswatini’s own procurement policy remains under development. Section 5 (1) of the 2011 Procurement Act permits use of external frameworks where necessary.
Calls for the process to be halted were described as harmful to progress already made, which includes years of technical planning and stakeholder engagement. The Ministry warned that starting over could mean reappraisal of the project and potential loss of funding, also putting other infrastructure plans like the upcoming Phase II project at risk.
The update was issued by Minister of Public Works and Transport, Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, on 13 June 2025.
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