Mbabane – Last week (Tuesday 18 and Wednesday 19), we witnessed a remarkable gathering at the Third EU Green Power Transformation Forum 2024, as participants filled up a conference room at the Happy Valley Hotel. This event brought together supporting partners, crucial industry players and participants to shape the future of sustainable energy in the kingdom of Eswatini and beyond. The forum not only highlighted the pressing need for a transformative approach to green power but also showcased the collaborative spirit that drives our collective efforts toward a sustainable future.

Technical assistance from GIZ, GET.invest and GET.transform, funded by the European Union delegation to Eswatini and co-organized by Business Eswatini and REAESWA,  the forum attracted industry players and leaders, policymakers, and innovators who shared insights and strategies on advancing renewable energy technologies and projects in Eswatini. Engaging discussions focused on enhanced power sector governance, planning and regulation for a clean energy transformation in Eswatini. Other discussions involved Renewable Energy aspirations of Eswatini which was followed by an in-depth presentation on the Renewable Energy Grid Integration and all this happened on the first day. On the second day an excellent team of panellists discussed at length the improved market due to mobilised private sector investment in renewable energy. Participants had the opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and explore innovative solutions that can propel Eswatini towards its ambitious renewable energy goals. The private sector already has multi billion projects in the pipeline some of which may become a reality in the coming year.

BE would like to extend her heartfelt gratitude to all the stakeholders and partners whose unwavering support made this event the resounding success that it was. Their commitment to sustainability and innovation is instrumental in driving the green power projects which are now under review. A very special thanks to our esteemed speakers and panelists for sharing their expertise and inspiring us with their vision for a sustainable future.

The enthusiasm and engagement from all participants were truly commendable. Their contributions enriched the discussions and underscored the importance of collective action in addressing climate change. Business Eswatini together with the EU are forging a path toward a greener, more sustainable Eswatini. As our theme this year stated, we are working on catalysing investments and power sector reforms to support the energy transition in Eswatini and if the presentations and deliberations are anything to go by, we as a country are on a steady trail to achieve this.

As we reflect on the outcomes of this forum, we have a deep sense of gratitude towards the European Union delegation to Eswatini who have recommitted themselves, through Ambassador Karsten Mecklenburg, to continue supporting the forum. Let us continue to collaborate and innovate as we work towards a sustainable energy future for generations to come. Thank you once again for being part of this transformative journey in Eswatini.

By Management