The EWADE is currently hosting a high-profile delegation from the African Development Bank (AfDB), led by Principal Hydrologist Dr Wael Soliman. 

Dr Soliman who serves as the Team Leader for two of Eswatini’s flagship projects, the Lower Usutu Smallholder Irrigation Project Phase II (LUSIP II) and the Mkhondvo–Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Project (MNWAP). The primary aim of the AfDB mission is to evaluate the progress of these transformative initiatives. These projects are designed to enhance agricultural productivity, create employment, and improve livelihoods in the Lubombo and Shiselweni regions. 

During the visit, the AfDB team toured vital infrastructures under construction, including the River Diversion channel and the Mpakeni Dam, which is the core of MNWAP.  

The delegation also had an opportunity to interact with farmers from the Ngcamphalala, Mngometulu, Myeni, and Matsenjwa communities, key beneficiaries of LUSIP II’s agricultural development efforts. These exchanges highlighted the profound environmental and social impacts of the projects, ensuring that they are not only technically sound but also inclusive and sustainable. The shift from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture has transformed these communities, allowing farmers to diversify their crops and secure stable incomes. 

Reflecting on the visit, Dr. Soliman expressed optimism about the far-reaching potential of the progress made at Mphakeni Dam: “The progress I have seen on-site has brought so much hope that Eswatini, particularly the Shiselweni Region, will be transformed. This is a step in the right direction, and I would like to reaffirm our commitment to completing this life-changing investment.” He went on to say: “It gives me joy that the MNWAP project is progressing well. It is pleasing to see that our involvement is bearing fruit. We are dedicated to supporting Eswatini in achieving this worthwhile goal.” 

Supervising for long-term impact 

The AfDB mission extended its focus beyond construction, reviewing critical components such as environmental safeguards, resettlement action plans, and the broader impact on local livelihoods. By directly engaging with the communities, the mission emphasized the importance of people-centered development that fosters long-term growth and sustainability. 

As part of the week-long visit, the AfDB delegation will continue to assess progress and hold further discussions with EWADE management, who have played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful implementation of these projects. 

Both LUSIP II and MNWAP are poised to significantly boost Eswatini’s agricultural productivity and economic development. The projects will directly benefit thousands of smallholder farmers, elevating entire communities from poverty and helping them transition to commercial farming. 

Particularly noteworthy is the success of LUSIP II in transforming communities. The mission expressed its gratitude for witnessing the tangible benefits—communities once battling poverty have now become empowered commercial farmers. The diversification of crops from the sugarcane-centric approach of LUSIP I was also celebrated, as it paves the way for more sustainable and varied agricultural production. 

For Eswatini, these projects represent more than just infrastructure development; they symbolize hope, empowerment, and a brighter future for all. The AfDB mission’s visit reinforces its commitment to supporting the country in realizing its ambitious vision of prosperity and growth for its people.