Matsapha- The Minister for Public Wokrs and Transport Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe has said the Japan-funded Green and Digital Transformation (GX-DX) Demonstration Project will do more than modernise King Mswati III International Airport.
Addressing stakeholder at the signing ceremony of the project yesterday, Ndwandwe said the initiative was aligned with government’s broader economic development strategy, describing it as an investment in infrastructure that would unlock business opportunities.
He said the project would support national priorities by promoting sustainable infrastructure, accelerating digital transformation and strengthening the country’s economic competitiveness.
“The project augers well for the continued development of King Mswati III International Airport as a strategic gateway for trade and connectivity in Southern Africa,” Ndwandwe said.
He said the introduction of renewable energy technologies, digital solutions and modern infrastructure would improve operational efficiency while strengthening the airport’s cargo and logistics capabilities.
According to the minister, those improvements would help facilitate trade, encourage investment and create opportunities for skills development and technology transfer, positioning Eswatini to take advantage of emerging opportunities in regional and international markets.
Ndwandwe said the collaborative nature of the project also reflected growing confidence among development partners in Eswatini’s aviation industry and its potential to contribute to economic growth.
He thanked the Government of Japan for financing the initiative, saying the investment demonstrated the strong partnership between the two countries and their shared commitment to innovation, sustainability and inclusive development.
The minister also acknowledged the continued support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), saying its partnership with government had contributed to projects that strengthen institutions and support sustainable economic transformation.
Ndwandwe noted with understanding that while the agreement marked an important milestone, the real value of the project would lie in its implementation.
“The true measure of our success will be seen in the outcomes we achieve, improved efficiency, enhanced connectivity, cleaner energy solutions, strengthened trade facilitation and expanded opportunities for economic growth,” he said.
Once implemented, the project is expected to improve the efficiency of airport operations while reinforcing King Mswati III International Airport’s role in supporting trade, investment and regional connectivity.
Discussion about this post