The decision on the implementation of the electricity tariff hike will be announced tomorrow.
This will determine whether the hike will be implemented this year or not, and whether there will be any reduction from the 13.61% increase approved by the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA), following the E200 million injected by government to cushion the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC).
During the debate on the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy’s 2025/2026 financial year performance report yesterday, Minister Prince Lonkhokhela announced that a statement on the electricity tariff decision would be made on Friday, March 27.
The minister was responding to senators who had asked whether there would be an electricity tariff increase this financial year.
He said ESERA had already announced the proposed increase, after which the king, in his Speech from the Throne, called for engagement on the issue.
Government subsequently provided E200 million, with E100 million allocated for this year and another E100 million for next year.
He added that government offered this funding as a cushion and requested ESERA to review the proposal. He said ESERA and EEC had not yet returned with a final decision, but he had been informed that an announcement would be made tomorrow.
He acknowledged that the announcement was late, noting that it carries wide-ranging implications.
Senator Tony Sibandze appreciated government for the E200 million injection, describing it as a constructive step. However, he said it remained unclear what this meant in practical terms.
He asked the minister to clarify whether the electricity price increase would be effected this year or next year, and at what percentage.
“Electricity influences many aspects of life and in the past we knew that on April 1 we have had to adjust our prices.
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“This decision cannot be indefinite. Let us be informed whether a decision is likely by April or July. If there will be an increase, let us know, and if not, we will be relieved,” he said.
Senator Chief Ngangabani also appreciated government support but said the nation remained uncertain about how much it would contribute, despite the E100 million cushion for this year.
Senate Deputy President Ndumiso Mdluli commended the king’s Speech from the Throne, saying it showed concern for citizens as electricity costs continued to rise. He also noted that a previous 25-year agreement with Eskom had expired, while the new agreement covers 10 years.
He asked whether the shorter contract duration was intentional and what considerations informed the decision.
Senator Stukie Motsa welcomed the king’s directive for stakeholder engagement, noting that citizens were already under financial pressure. She also questioned what would happen as April 1 approaches, saying the public needs clarity.
Senator Linda Nxumalo highlighted that 70% of the country’s electricity is sourced internationally, while only 30% is produced locally. She warned that this dependence exposes the country to supply risks and called for a clear strategy on sustainable energy.
“We would like a clear strategy on how the country will ensure energy security. Beyond pricing, those we depend on may one day refuse to supply us,” she said.
Senator Chief Ngome Ndlangamandla acknowledged EEC’s rural electrification efforts but expressed concern about low local production. He urged increased investment in domestic electricity generation.
