Mbabane– Government has increased funding for community projects and industrial infrastructure under the 2026/2027 national budget, a move expected to expand job opportunities in rural areas.
Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg revealed that the Community Development Fund (CDF), managed by Microprojects, has nearly doubled from E188 million to about E360 million following parliamentary adjustments.
He said the fund supports the construction of infrastructure such as classrooms, bridges and community facilities, mainly through local contractors.
Rijkenberg explained that contractors awarded these projects are required to include and train young people, contributing to skills development while delivering infrastructure.
The minister noted that these projects are already having a noticeable impact in rural communities, where access to development had previously been limited.
In addition to community projects, the government has increased investment in factory shells, which are expected to create employment both during construction and after completion.
Rijkenberg said the factory shell programme is now being expanded beyond industrial hubs like Matsapha, with new facilities planned closer to rural communities. This approach is intended to allow workers to remain within their communities while accessing employment.
He explained that the strategy is supported by ongoing road construction, which improves access to areas targeted for industrial development.
“The idea is to bring jobs closer to where people live, rather than having everyone move to urban centres,” he said.
Rijkenberg also encouraged emaSwati to remain alert to emerging opportunities linked to the budget, particularly in construction, agriculture and small business development.
He said further details on the budget would continue to be unpacked in upcoming editions of the Finance in Focus programme.
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