Building More Than a Dam: 50 Diploma Holders Gain Hands-On Experience as MNWAP Powers Skills Transfer in Eswatini.
September 26, 2025His Majesty King Mswati III honoured the Mpakeni Dam project with a Royal Visit and commendation on 13 October 2025, marking a significant moment in the national drive to strengthen water security and agricultural development in Eswatini.
The E2.6 billion project, implemented by the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) under the Mkhondvo–Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Programme (MNWAP), continues to make steady progress towards transforming livelihoods and landscapes in the Shiselweni Region.
During the tour, His Majesty expressed appreciation for the milestones achieved to date including visible construction progress and the creation of nearly 800 employment opportunities for emaSwati. His Majesty further commended EWADE for prioritising community empowerment and ensuring that families affected by the development are resettled in modern, dignified homes equipped to support sustainable livelihoods.
Currently at 34% completion, the project has seen major advances in key components such as the permanent camp, diversion chamber, cofferdam, and diaphragm wall. Once complete, the dam will irrigate up to 30,000 hectares of farmland, unlocking vast agricultural potential from St Philips to Siphambanweni, and strengthening Eswatini’s food security.
Beyond infrastructure, EWADE has placed strong emphasis on capacity building, with graduate engineers and technicians gaining hands-on experience at the project site. To date, over E660 million has been channelled to local contractors, service providers, and suppliers ensuring that the project’s economic impact is felt directly by emaSwati.
Our CEO Dr Sithole noted that the Royal visit serves as both a recognition and an encouragement to continue driving impact through inclusive and sustainable development.
“We are deeply honoured by His Majesty’s commendation. The Mpakeni Dam is more than a structure it represents opportunity, empowerment, and a shared vision for a water-secure Eswatini,” he said.
As the project moves steadily toward completion in 2028, EWADE remains committed to ensuring that the Mpakeni Dam becomes a lasting symbol of resilience, growth, and national progress.
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