MBABANE – The Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE) has begun moving operations from its longstanding headquarters in Mbabane to a new location in Ezulwini.
The move, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, marks a significant shift in the Bank’s physical presence. The new premises are located along the MR103 Main Road, Ezulwini, not far from the Ezulwini Corner Plaza. The relocation forms part of a broader transformation programme that was set in motion during the CBE’s 50th anniversary celebrations on May 10, 2024, where His Majesty King Mswati III officiated at the sod-turning ceremony.
So far, senior executives including the Governor and select departments have already taken up residence at the Ezulwini site, with further relocations scheduled in phases. The Bank is repurposing property acquired in 2023 to accommodate staff while construction continues on a larger multi-purpose headquarters.
The ongoing Phase 1 development of the CBE Complex will house an 18-storey building that is expected to become a key landmark in Ezulwini. Plans for the complex also include a museum, an innovation hub, a secure data centre, and a multi-level parkade.
Despite the move, members of the public will still be able to access services at the Mbabane banking hall. These include coin and note exchanges, investment in Government securities such as treasury bills and bonds, and withdrawal of funds. This facility will remain open until further notice.
Suppliers and contractors have been informed that the Bank’s storage facilities in Mbabane will continue receiving deliveries until September 2025. After that, all goods and services must be delivered to the Ezulwini Complex.
Once the transition is finalised, the Mbabane buildings will be transferred to the Government for use by the Judiciary and other ministries.
For those travelling to the new site, motorists can use the offramp from the MR3 highway to join MR103, then continue past Ezulwini Corner Plaza where signage will guide them to the new complex. Minibus commuters heading toward Lobamba or Malkerns are advised to disembark at the stop just before the MTN/ICC roundabout.
The Central Bank has committed to issuing regular updates as the relocation progresses.
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