MATSAPHA – The construction sector is stepping up its efforts to tackle the effects of climate change, joining national stakeholders in shaping Eswatini’s third Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0).
At a forum hosted at Esibayeni Lodge on 19 June, contractors, regulators and climate experts met under the theme “Adapting to Climate-Resilient Construction Practices in the Built Environment.” The event was convened by the Construction Industry Council (CIC) with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as part of the national climate response strategy.
The Minister of Public Works and Transport, Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, said the ongoing destruction of infrastructure by extreme weather had made it clear that resilient development could no longer be delayed. He called for continuous engagement between government and the industry to embed climate-smart planning into future infrastructure.
UNDP Resident Representative Henrik Franklin urged the sector to act quickly, describing the construction industry as key to delivering climate solutions through energy-efficient buildings, low-carbon infrastructure, and green jobs. He also acknowledged the UK Government’s financial backing through the NDC Partnership, which is driving the update of Eswatini’s climate commitments.
Franklin pushed for circular economy models, where construction materials are reused, reducing waste and costs in the long run.
Technical expert Excellent Hachileka, brought in by UNDP, unpacked the socio-economic benefits of green infrastructure. He said investing in eco-friendly systems could double or triple job creation compared to traditional projects, while empowering communities, upskilling youth, and stimulating local businesses working with renewable materials.
CIC CEO Maqhawe Mnisi said the industry has pledged to adopt climate-smart interventions in both new projects and ongoing operations. He announced a partnership with the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) to launch a course focused on installing and maintaining solar power systems.
Director of Meteorology, Duduzile Nhlengethwa-Masina, explained that NDC 3.0 is aligned with Eswatini’s broader climate strategies including the Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) and the National Adaptation Plan. She also pointed to the Green Finance Taxonomy Project—run by the Central Bank in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs (MTEA)—as a key opportunity for construction players to attract climate-aligned finance.
Standard Bank’s Barry Schutzler told delegates that banks are ready to back climate-resilient projects, saying urban development must be planned with sustainability in mind.
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