Eswatini Economic Update: Raising the Game with Efficient State-Owned Enterprises

On August 7, 2023, The World Bank will publish the first edition of the Eswatini Economic Update, entitled Raising the Game with Efficient State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs),  in partnership with the Government of Eswatini.

The launch event will be addressed by Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly, World Bank Country Director for Eswatini and Eswatini’s Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg.

Presentation of the report will be followed by a panel discussion facilitated by the World Bank’s Resident Representative for Eswatini, Ikechi Okorie.

The report analyzes recent global and domestic economic developments, assessing Eswatini's short- and medium-term prospects. It also examines the role of SOEs in enhancing economic performance, evaluating their contribution to the economy, identifying limitations, and proposing areas and actions for reform. The report highlights the urgent need for action to achieve socio-economic aspirations, reduce poverty, and address high unemployment rates.

9:00-9:10am Welcome and Introductions by Marie Francoise Marie- Nelly, Country Director, WB

9:10-9:20am Opening Remarks by Hon. Neal Rijkenberg, Minister of Finance

9:20-9:30am Remarks by Marco Hernandez Ore, Practice Manager, WB

9:30-10:00am Recent Economic Developments and Outlook, Marko Kwaramba,
Sr. Economist, WB

10:00-10:30am Raising the Game with Efficient State- Owned Enterprises, Ana Cristina Hirata
Barros, Senior Governance Specialist, WB

10:30-11:00am PANELISTS

⁃            Mr. Ernest Mkhonta, Managing Director, Eswatini Electricity Company

⁃            Ms. Busangani Mkhaliphi, Director, Public Enterprise Unit

⁃            Mr. Sifiso Mamba, Chief Economist, Eswatini

⁃            Mr. Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, Director-Research, Central Bank of Eswatini

⁃            Mr. Sanele Sibiya, Economics Lecturer, University of Eswatini

11:00-11:30am Ouestions

11:30-11:40am Concluding Remarks by Marco Hernandez Ore, Practice Manager, WB