MBABANE – Standard Bank is playing a growing role in Eswatini’s push to cut reliance on imported electricity, using its financing muscle to support clean energy projects across the country.
The bank’s involvement follows a call made nearly three years ago by its Chief Executive, Mvuselelo Fakudze, who encouraged his team to take a more active role in shaping the country’s energy future. Since then, the bank has become a key player in funding infrastructure, particularly projects that help stabilise the national grid through battery energy storage systems.
Mlamuli Hlatshwayo, Head of Business & Commercial Banking, said the recent Energy Indaba showed just how important teamwork will be in solving the country’s energy challenges. “No single player can do it alone,” he said. “We need government, regulators, developers, communities, and banks working together.”
Vincenzia Leitich, who oversees power and infrastructure projects at the bank, believes stronger regional energy ties will also benefit Eswatini. She said shared power systems across borders are becoming more important in ensuring energy security and attracting investment on the continent.
Standard Bank is currently backing projects for homes, businesses, and government facilities, while also promoting partnerships between the public and private sectors to build the infrastructure needed for a more sustainable future.
The bank says it is committed to working with Independent Power Producers, government agencies and other key players to help Eswatini generate more of its own electricity and reduce its dependence on imports.
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