BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE– Eswatini has taken a significant step toward strengthening its renewable energy capacity following the official handover of Solar PV Accreditation Equipment to the Directorate of Industrial and Vocational Training (DIVT) under the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
The handover ceremony, held on October 31, 2025, was facilitated by the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA) through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy (MNRE). The event was officiated by Under Secretary Gabisile Mabuza, who represented the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, HRH Prince Lonkhokhela. Also in attendance were Acting ESERA CEO Simphiwe Khumalo, Ministry of Labour and Social Security representative Macakala Dlamini, and other officials.
The equipment package includes four single-phase inverters, complete solar panel kits with accessories, and four specialised roof models—two IBR and two tile types—intended for use in assessments under the Solar PV Installer Accreditation Programme.
Speaking at the event, Mabuza underscored the importance of the initiative, stating:
“This equipment will go a long way in supporting the Solar PV Installer Accreditation Programme.”
Echoing this sentiment, ESERA Acting CEO Simphiwe Khumalo emphasized the organisation’s commitment to skills development in the energy sector:
“We are proud to contribute to Eswatini’s skills development agenda while advancing professionalism in the renewable energy industry.”
Immediately after the handover, ESERA and DIVT launched the Solar PV Installer Accreditation Programme at Mountain View. The programme aims to equip Eswatini with a certified and competent solar installation workforce capable of delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality renewable energy solutions in line with national and international standards.
The initiative marks a strengthened collaboration between ESERA and DIVT, supporting the country’s transition toward clean energy and creating new vocational opportunities within the growing green economy.
