AGP Executive Report

CAF Women’s Champions League-COSAFA Qualifier: Silver Strikers Ladies have arrived in Gaborone, Botswana, for their first match on Friday against Mozambique’s Costa do Sol, with the team drawn in Group B alongside South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns and eSwatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs; games will be streamed on CAF TV, FIFA+ and COSAFA channels. Crime & Governance: The Madlanga Commission heard WhatsApp messages alleging suspended SAPS Sergeant Fannie Nkosi helped push a plan to buy “grabber” cellphone surveillance tech via a Czech supplier, using SAPS stamps and force details, with links to late taxi boss Jothan Msibi and alleged attempts to sell the devices to eSwatini. Migration & Regional Politics: Liberia agreed to accept up to 1,200 third-country deportees from the US over a year, with the first 20 expected Thursday, insisting the arrangement is “humanitarian” and that deportees will be treated as “guests.” Banking & Finance: The Central Bank of Eswatini posted a E40.8m profit for the year to March 31, 2026, but reported a E266.6m total comprehensive loss after revaluation losses. Energy & Environment: Eswatini Air joined IATA CO2 Connect to voluntarily report passenger carbon emissions using standardised fuel-burn data. Housing & Social Support: DPM Thulisile Dladla handed over six houses to vulnerable families in Mpolonjeni, Nkilongo and Lubulini constituencies. Economic Policy: PM Russell Dlamini urged a shift from budget support to “productive” borrowing aligned to job creation and sustainable returns, as OPEC Fund talks focus on expanded agricultural support. Climate Risk: NDRMA warned of a very strong El Niño, with NOAA now putting the chance above 90%, calling for stronger preparedness. Unemployment & IP: A copyright-focused discussion argues that stronger intellectual property systems could help turn Eswatini’s creativity into sustainable livelihoods as unemployment remains high. Sports & Culture: Mbabane Highlanders face Kaizer Chiefs on Friday in a behind-closed-doors pre-season match, while Mhlume Country Club hosts a Princess Frozen Musical Experience and evening live music on August 22.

Madlanga Commission & Surveillance Tech: Evidence at the inquiry alleges suspended Sgt Fannie Nkosi used an SAPS stamp and force number to help a Czech-linked plan for “grabber” phone-interception devices, with late taxi boss Jothan “King Mswazi” Msibi and others pushing the deal as an SAPS demonstration before resale in eSwatini. Construction & Governance: A new National Construction Industry Policy flags corruption, weak tendering, poor oversight and unfair competition as threats to Eswatini’s E1.43bn construction sector, calling for reforms to improve transparency and fair contracting. Regional Leadership & Trade: King Mswati III assumed the SADC Troika chair for Politics, Defence and Security, while the Durban summit backed initiatives like the SADC Tourism UNIVISA and stressed industrialisation through infrastructure, agriculture and critical minerals. Economy & Policy Direction: Economist Dr George Choongwa urges Eswatini to prioritise economic stability over aggressive growth amid external shocks. Transport Costs: Public transport operators propose raising bus fares to E15 for up to eight kilometres, citing higher operating costs and vehicle depreciation. Border Enforcement: Mpumalanga police seized 630kg of suspected dagga in a truck from Eswatini at Oshoek, worth over R4m, and arrested the driver. Agriculture: Farmers are urged to prepare soils for spring with fertility checks and soil testing after winter dormancy. Business & Skills: Eswatini’s draft National Trade Policy targets wider export markets and stronger MSMEs, while a Taiwan-backed skills showcase is set to expand in 2027. Sports (Business Angle): CAF Champions League-COSAFA qualifiers are next for eSwatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs and other regional teams.

Madlanga Commission: Evidence presented in the inquiry alleges suspended Sgt Fannie Nkosi used his SAPS stamp to help a Czech-linked plan to sell “grabber” cellphone surveillance devices, with WhatsApp chats tying late taxi boss Jothan Msibi and alleged “Big Five” cartel members to misrepresentations to foreign buyers and a proposed demonstration for SAPS. Cross-border drugs: Mpumalanga police arrested a suspect and seized a Volvo truck at Oshoek Port of Entry carrying 49 bags of suspected dagga (about 630kg) worth over R4m, with the vehicle reportedly linked to an Eswatini logistics firm. Trade policy: Eswatini is drafting a new National Trade Policy aimed at wider export markets, value addition and stronger local MSMEs, with focus on trade facilitation, cutting non-tariff barriers and better access to finance. Aquaculture jobs: Government is expanding inland fish farming via the Maguga Dam project after commissioning an aquaculture research and production centre, targeting reduced imports, job creation and food security. Regional business diplomacy: SADC leaders meeting in Durban backed a regional tourism UNIVISA and industrialisation push, while Zambia is set to host the 47th summit. Transport costs: Public transport operators have proposed raising minimum bus fares to E15 for up to 8km and increasing taxi fares, citing higher operating costs and vehicle depreciation.

SADC Summit Outcomes: Leaders meeting in Durban backed a SADC Tourism UNIVISA and pushed a new industrialisation push focused on infrastructure, agriculture and critical minerals, while also renewing calls for Zimbabwe sanctions removal. SADC Chair Shift: South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa took over the SADC chair and Zambia will host the 47th Summit in Lusaka. Regional Integration for Trade: King Mswati III urged full inclusion of landlocked states in the North–South Economic Corridor, highlighting Ngwenya–Oshoek as Eswatini’s key trade gateway. Transport Costs: Public transport operators want bus fares raised from E10 to E15 for up to 8km, citing higher operating costs and vehicle depreciation. Cross-Border Security: Mpumalanga police seized 49 bags of dagga worth over R4m at Oshoek Port of Entry from Eswatini-linked plates. Road Infrastructure: AfDB-funded road safety audits were awarded to Atana for Eswatini’s MR14 and MR21 roads under a 7-month consultancy. Local Economy & Procurement: Government plans to require 80% local sourcing of construction materials in public projects to keep jobs and value in Eswatini. Trade Data: Eswatini’s merchandise trade deficit widened to E1.05bn in the first four months of 2026/27 as imports outpaced exports. ESCCOM Probe: ESCCOM investigations allege about E17m was diverted into a finance manager’s personal accounts via invoice bank-detail changes. Business Opportunities: IDCE is inviting local suppliers to register on its supplier database before 21 August. Education Win: UNESWA student Vuyelwa Karabo Simelane won the 2026 SADC tertiary essay prize, taking US$2,000 (about E32,340).

Drug Enforcement: A truck carrying suspected dagga worth over R4m was intercepted at Oshoek Port of Entry from Eswatini; police found 49 bags (about 630kg) and arrested the driver, with investigations now tracing the consignment’s origin and destination. Corporate Earnings: RCL Foods warned of a sharp earnings slump, blaming weaker sugar performance (including Royal Eswatini Sugar) and a downturn in pet food, with headline earnings per share expected to drop 30%-35%. Governance & Housing: Nkaba MP Hope Shiba says he will move to halt evictions and demolitions of about 1,000 homes built on farms, citing concerns over ownership authenticity and lack of basic services like electricity. Public Sector Accountability: ESCCOM says an investigation has uncovered alleged diversion of about E17m into a finance manager’s personal accounts via falsified invoice bank details, alongside alleged misuse of an ESCCOM card. Trade & Procurement: Eswatini’s merchandise trade deficit widened to E1.05bn in the first four months of 2026/27 as imports rose faster than exports; meanwhile government plans to require 80% local sourcing of construction materials in public projects to boost jobs and reduce imported inputs. SADC Watch: Leaders meet in Durban for the 46th SADC summit on security, trade and industrialisation, with migration a key flashpoint as South Africa takes over the chairmanship and anti-migrant “March and March” plans protests outside the summit. Business Support: IDCE opened a supplier registration drive for local firms ahead of its procurement needs, with applications closing 21 August.

SADC Summit Watch: Leaders meet in Durban for the 46th Ordinary SADC Summit, with trade, critical minerals, industrialisation and security on the agenda as South Africa takes over the chairmanship and migration remains a flashpoint. Migration Pressure: Anti-migrant “March and March” plans to march and picket on the summit’s final day, demanding stricter visa controls, tighter asylum rules and action against employers hiring undocumented workers. Regional Security Push: Malawi’s Enock Chihana urged SADC unity to tackle crises in eastern DRC, Madagascar and Mozambique, backing Eswatini’s incoming role in the Organ Troika. ESCCOM Probe: An ESCCOM investigation alleges about E17m was diverted into a finance manager’s personal accounts through invoice bank-detail changes and possible card misuse. Trade Balance: Eswatini’s merchandise trade deficit widened to E1.05bn in the first four months of 2026/27 as imports outpaced exports. Local Content Drive: Government says it will enforce 80% local sourcing of construction materials in public projects to keep jobs and value in Eswatini. Energy & Cost Risks: UNDP urged Eswatini to use renewable energy for energy security and resilience, while fuel subsidy funding is under pressure after Strait of Hormuz disruptions. HIV Focus: UNAIDS highlights that Eswatini is among countries that have reached the 95-95-95 targets, even as local data shows new infections remain a concern for the 2030 goal.

SADC Security Push: Malawi’s Second Vice-President Enock Chihana urged Southern African leaders to respond to regional crises in Congo, Madagascar and Mozambique with “openness, mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose,” as he prepares to represent Malawi at high-level SADC summits in Durban. Energy & Cost Pressures: UNDP urged Eswatini to use renewable energy to strengthen energy security and unlock investment value, while Eswatini’s fuel “cushion” spending was flagged as a short runway—government spent E147m in June to keep prices low, with reserves for under six months. Street Reintegration: Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla said her office will assess people living on the streets for family reintegration, and where no support exists, work with chiefs to allocate homes. Governance & Health Scrutiny: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini said government is within rights to investigate The Luke Commission (TLC) after serious allegations from former employees and MPs. Local Markets: Eswatini’s stock market edged up in July, with market capitalisation rising 0.10% to E7.053bn. Business & Trade: India and SACU moved closer to preferential trade talks after signing terms of reference, aiming to expand export markets and investment links. Household Finance: A rise in debt consolidation loans reflects mounting cost-of-living pressure on emaSwati households. Sports & Economy: The EFA said it avoided about E325,000 in coaching salaries over five months while Sihlangu lacked a permanent technical team.

Creative & Media Collaboration: Makotopong Sound Studios (MSS) and Lokuhle Media Group teamed up with artist AkuseKhula at the Eswatini Theatre Club to strengthen the local creative industry through production, management and marketing support. Cyber & Family Law Risk: A growing Facebook “baby-daddy shaming” trend could trigger serious penalties under Eswatini’s cybercrime and data protection laws, including fines up to E100 000 and possible imprisonment. Governance & Healthcare Scrutiny: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini says government is within rights to investigate The Luke Commission (TLC) after allegations from former employees and MPs, including concerns over governance and clinical practices. Energy & Regional Shock: Unions in South Africa and Eswatini, NUM and TUCOSWA, warn Eskom restructuring could raise electricity costs for Eswatini, which relies heavily on imported power. Markets & Finance: Eswatini’s stock market edged higher in July, while the Central Bank says retail bonds are set to be rolled out soon to broaden trusted investment options. Business & Infrastructure Spend: EWADE reports over E739.2m already spent on Eswatini-owned firms for the under-construction Mpakeni Dam, supporting nearly 200 local contractors and suppliers. Sports Economy: The FNB Eswatini Challenge ended with Australian Austin Bautista winning E396 250, while local clubs face player movement ahead of the 2026/27 season. Public Health: HIV prevention data shows about 4 220 new infections in 2024, raising concern over progress toward the 2030 “zero new infections” target.

Fuel Subsidy Pressure: Government says it spent about E147m in June to cushion emaSwati fuel costs, with only ~E860m left in reserve—about six months at current spending—raising questions as oil-market uncertainty continues. Financial Markets: Central Bank of Eswatini Governor Dr Phil Mnisi says retail bonds are set to be rolled out soon, aiming to broaden public access to trusted investment options and deepen local money and capital markets. Local Business & Infrastructure: EWADE reports E739.2m already spent on Eswatini-owned firms for the under-construction E2.6bn Mpakeni Dam, supporting nearly 200 local contractors and suppliers. Trade & Regional Integration: SACU and India signed Terms of Reference to start negotiations on a Preferential Trade Agreement, with talks expected to begin within a month and focus on areas like goods, rules of origin and customs procedures. HIV Prevention Update: NERCHA reports about 4,220 new HIV infections in 2024, up from ~4,000, threatening the 2030 “zero new infections” goal and pointing to ongoing structural barriers. Sports & Economy: Mbabane Swallows face an exodus of key players ahead of 2026/27, while the FNB Eswatini Challenge saw local hopes miss the E396k top prize as international competition tightens. Energy Compliance: EEC warns owners of grid-connected solar systems to register or face a E15,500 penalty, citing safety and regulatory compliance concerns. Entrepreneurship & Jobs: EITF 2026 expects over 70,000 attendees, positioning the fair as a major business and green-economy opportunity.

China-Africa Trade: China’s zero-tariff policy for imports from 53 African countries is already lifting sales and market access, with Eswatini excluded because it recognises Taiwan. Fuel Subsidy Watch: Government says it spent about E147m in June to cushion emaSwati fuel costs, with only around E860m left—roughly six months at current burn rates—raising pressure on the subsidy model. Financial Markets: The Central Bank of Eswatini says it will soon roll out retail bonds to broaden trusted local investment options. HIV Prevention: Eswatini recorded about 4,220 new HIV infections in 2024, up from around 4,000, threatening the 2030 “zero new infections” goal and pointing to persistent structural barriers. Electricity Regulation: EEC warns owners of grid-connected solar systems to register or face a E15,500 penalty, citing safety and compliance concerns. Trade & Growth: Eswatini’s 58th International Trade Fair (Aug 28–Sep 6) targets 70,000+ attendees, while EITF-linked sport sponsorship (E200,000) highlights business opportunities beyond the pitch. Regional Trade Talks: India and SACU signed ToR to start negotiations on a preferential trade agreement, with Eswatini among the member states. Local Business Spend: EWADE says the under-construction Mpakeni Dam has already injected about E739.2m into local businesses via nearly 200 Eswatini firms.

Crypto & Remittances: South Africa’s draft Crypto Asset Manual could let authorised providers use crypto in the background to settle some cross-border remittances, without senders buying or holding crypto, with caps of ZAR 5,000 per transaction per day and ZAR 25,000 monthly. Financial Markets: The Central Bank of Eswatini says it will soon roll out retail bonds to broaden trusted investment options for households and diversify local markets. Public Performance & Governance: Eswatini’s first-ever Government Performance Report for 2025/26 shows overall performance at 48%, up from 22% earlier, but with uneven results across ministries. Energy Costs & Compliance: EEC says it can apply for tariff adjustments every two years; meanwhile owners of grid-connected solar systems are warned to register with Phehla Sikwati or face a E15,500 penalty. Trade & Regional Integration: India and SACU signed terms of reference to launch preferential trade talks, with negotiations expected to start within a month. Local Business Spend: EWADE’s Mpakeni Dam has already injected about E739.2m into Eswatini-owned firms, supporting nearly 200 contractors and suppliers. Agriculture Shock: A cold snap in Hawane killed cattle, with smallholders reporting losses above E60,000. Trade Fair Momentum: EITF 2026 is projected to draw over 70,000 attendees, with a green economy theme aimed at boosting sustainable trade opportunities.

Retail Bonds: Central Bank of Eswatini Governor Dr Phil Mnisi says CBE will soon roll out retail bonds to broaden trusted investment options for locals. Financial System Strategy: Mnisi also outlined four priorities—modernising and deepening money/capital markets, safe innovation, purposeful financial inclusion, and strengthening institutional capability. Electricity Tariffs: Natural Resources and Energy Minister Prince Lonkhokhela says EEC can apply for tariff reviews every two years under its agreement with ESERA, noting Eswatini currently imports about 70% of power. Solar Compliance: EEC warns owners of grid-connected solar systems to register with the Phehla Sikwati campaign or face a E15,500 penalty. Edible Oil Levy: NAMBoard will enforce a 24% levy on imported edible oils from September 1, tightening compliance with existing law. Trade & Market Access: India and SACU signed Terms of Reference to launch negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement, with talks expected to start within a month and conclude within a year. Regional Integration Scorecard: SADC says it’s improving on security and agriculture but still falls short on growth, jobs and youth unemployment. Local Business Spend: EWADE reports E739.2m already spent on Eswatini-owned firms for the Mpakeni Dam, supporting nearly 200 local contractors and suppliers. Agriculture Shock: A cold snap in Hawane killed cattle, with smallholders reporting losses above E60,000. Governance & Police: Senate President’s allegations against police officers prompt PM Russell Mmiso Dlamini to say “no interference” and that claims should be investigated. Sports & Sponsorship: Green Mamba sign Nhlanhla Ngwenya ahead of CAF deadlines, while Orchard Insurance backs Nsingizini Hotspurs with E40,000 for CAF Women’s Champions League. Trade Fair Push: EITF 2026 expects over 70,000 attendees, with MulaSport pledging E200,000 to sport activities in the fair programme.

India–SACU Trade Talks: India and the Southern African Customs Union (including Eswatini) signed Terms of Reference to restart negotiations on a Preferential Trade Agreement, with talks expected to begin within a month and conclude within a year, targeting tariff cuts on selected goods such as automobiles, pharmaceuticals and industrial machinery. Electricity Costs & Tariffs: Eswatini Electricity Company says it can apply for tariff reviews every two years; officials also flagged EEC’s worsening finances (losses and heavy reliance on imported power) as it prepares another application, while EEC warned solar owners to register or face a E15 500 penalty. Energy Compliance & Losses: EEC reported major financial strain from vandalism and copper theft, and warned of yet another electricity tariff hike as it seeks to recover costs. Trade & Business Calendar: Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) 2026 is set to draw over 70 000 attendees from Aug 28–Sep 6, with a green-economy theme aimed at boosting sustainable trade. Agriculture Value Chains: A World Bank review highlights maize, dairy, beef and vegetables as high-potential value chains, but says Eswatini needs more market-linked investment to unlock growth. Sports Funding: Orchard Insurance injected E40 000 into Nsingizini Hotspurs Ladies ahead of the CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers.

Electricity & Tariffs: Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) says it can seek another tariff review, with the minister stressing the utility’s right to apply every two years and that any change depends on ESERA’s process; EEC is also reported to be in the red (E231.1m) amid cost pressures, including imported power and losses worsened by vandalism and copper theft. Food Imports & Levies: NAMBoard will enforce a 24% levy on imported edible oils from September 1, saying it’s the minimum rate under existing law aimed at tightening compliance and protecting local production. Trade & Market Access: India and SACU (including Eswatini) have signed Terms of Reference to restart talks on a Preferential Trade Agreement, targeting completion within a year and focusing on goods like automobiles, pharmaceuticals and industrial machinery. Youth & Skills: UNESWA VC urges early retirement planning, while a Student Leadership Conference challenged over 80 student leaders to apply leadership, entrepreneurship and branding skills beyond campus. Governance & Business Environment: Government performance improved to 48% for 2025/26, and the Natural Resources ministry warned businesses to verify procurement notices after a fraudulent tender circulated online. Social Protection: After a cold front, 114 street children and vulnerable people were relocated to shelters with food and warm clothing.

Government Performance: HMCS topped the 2025/26 assessment with a 75% score, while overall government performance rose to 48% from 22% in the first quarter, though the report notes HMCS’s role is mostly supporting. Trade & Investment: India and SACU signed terms of reference to restart talks on a Preferential Trade Agreement, with negotiations aimed to start within a month and wrap up within a year—potentially reshaping tariff outcomes for goods like vehicles and pharmaceuticals. Electricity Costs: ESERA’s recent 13.61% tariff hike is being followed by signals of another application for 2027, as EEC reports E231.1m losses and warns financial pressure may push further increases. Energy Sector Risk: EEC says copper theft and vandalism are worsening losses, while ESERA and EEC stress applications don’t automatically mean immediate consumer price jumps. Social Protection in Cold Weather: Government moved 114 street children and vulnerable people to safety as a severe cold front hits, with municipalities urged to shelter and support the most at risk. Youth & Jobs: EYEOP targets 30,000 young people (at least 15,000 young women and 5% youth with disabilities) with skills and entrepreneurship support. Agriculture Value Chains: A World Bank review flags maize, dairy, beef and vegetables as high-potential value chains, urging market-linked investment to unlock growth. Customs Facilitation: SACU expands its AEO pilot to Namibia, Botswana and South Africa, testing faster border clearance for accredited traders.

Electricity Tariffs: Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) says it will apply for a 2027 tariff review in October, with ESERA’s process running through November and any changes only taking effect from April 2027—EEC warns a filing doesn’t automatically mean higher bills, but it expects a likely increase based on current financials. ENPF Governance: Labour Minister Phila Buthelezi assured senators the Eswatini National Provident Fund board will be fully constituted by end of September after a board dissolution and vetting concerns. Youth Jobs Funding: Government’s EYEOP will target 30,000 young people over five years, including at least 15,000 young women and about 1,500 youth with disabilities, with skills and entrepreneurship support. Farm Monitoring Upgrade: EWADE handed over E300,000 in tablets and laptops to agriculture extension officers to capture real-time farm data under IFAD-funded SAPEMP. Trade Facilitation: SACU is expanding its Regional AEO pilot—starting 18 August—to Namibia, Botswana and South Africa to speed up cross-border clearance for accredited traders. Tourism Push: Eswatini Tourism Authority launched the kingdom’s events calendar in Mozambique to boost regional travel and cross-border spending. Data Breach Watch: ESCCOM says most reported personal data breaches originate in the financial sector, urging stronger compliance with the Data Protection Act. Waste & Climate Risk: Environmental Authority warns open burning is fuelling disaster risks, including wildfires and harmful air pollution.