MALINDZA – The Eswatini Electricity Company has officially introduced a contractor to Malindza Umphakatsi as part of preparations for the proposed Lubhuku Coal Mine, a project linked to strengthening the country’s energy supply.
EEC Managing Director Ernest S. Sipho Mkhonta, joined by senior management and a technical survey team, visited the community on 8 April 2026 to present the Sibanye Engineering and RSV Minerals Joint Venture. The company has been appointed under the Eswatini Electricity Feedstock Company, a subsidiary of EEC.
The joint venture is led by Mike Swatman and has been assigned a four month contract to carry out preparatory technical studies for the coal mine. The work will include the development of geological models and a detailed mining plan to determine the feasibility and guide the potential rollout of the project. 
Addressing community representatives during the visit, Mkhonta said the initial phase of studies would lay the foundation for informed decisions on the future of the mine and its sustainability.
The contractor’s responsibilities include geotechnical investigations to assess ground stability and safety conditions, as well as geo modelling to map coal resources accurately. The team will also prepare structured mining plans designed to ensure responsible extraction.
Financial and economic modelling will form part of the assignment to assess long term viability and measure the potential economic contribution of the project to Malindza and the wider Lubombo region.
An Environmental and Social Impact Assessment is expected to begin soon. The process will examine possible effects on surrounding communities and the natural environment, while recommending mitigation measures where necessary.
EEC indicated that all technical studies and economic modelling are scheduled for completion by September 2026. The coal mine is intended to supply feedstock for a planned power plant aimed at improving domestic electricity generation and reducing reliance on imports.
