CIC Convenes 2nd Annual Stakeholder Forum to Climate‑Proof Eswatini’s Built Environment

Yesterday, June 19, 2025, the Construction Industry Council (CIC) brought together over 200 industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers at Esibayeni Lodge in Matsapha for its second annual Stakeholder Forum. Streaming live across the region, the meeting centered on the theme “Adapting to Climate‑Resilient Construction Practices in the Built Environment.”

CIC CEO Maqhawe Mnisi emphasized the critical role of local content, stating, “As the CIC, we were given the task to ensure that there is an increase in local content and the levelling of the playing field. This is to ensure local firms compete and are involved in projects”.

The gathering also saw Hon. Minister Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport reveal that a forthcoming policy will mandate climate‑resilient public buildings, pushing contractors to develop new skills.

UNDP’s Resident Representative Henrik Franklin brought the human perspective to the conversation:

“Let us not only climate‑proof buildings, but let us also climate‑proof people’s lives. We must begin to think beyond buildings and begin building communities”.

This forum marks a major stride in Eswatini’s shift towards sustainable infrastructure, signaling reinforced partnerships among government bodies, the United Nations, and the private sector.