MBABANE – In a move that signals a bold new chapter for the Kingdom’s industrial and environmental landscape, the Honourable Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, officially inaugurated the Omega Waste Incineration Plant under Union Papers today.
The launch of the facility is being hailed as more than just a corporate expansion; it is a landmark achievement in Eswatini’s pursuit of a sustainable circular economy and green industrial transformation.
Established in 2019, Union Papers has rapidly ascended to become Eswatini’s largest waste processing entity. The company’s operational scale is a testament to the potential of local industry:
Minister Khumalo lauded the company as a “strong example” of innovation, noting that Union Papers does not just manage waste but transforms it into value—fueling economic growth while safeguarding the environment.
The newly unveiled Omega Waste division introduces a critical capacity for the country: the safe disposal of hazardous and biomedical waste. With a capacity of 500 kilograms per hour, the incineration plant addresses a vital gap in the healthcare and industrial sectors, ensuring that dangerous materials are handled according to modern environmental imperatives.
Furthermore, Union Papers has achieved a significant sustainability milestone by transitioning to 100% biomass energy. By eliminating coal from its operations, the company has set a new standard for reducing industrial carbon footprints in the region.
Beyond environmental metrics, the expansion is a major driver of social stability. Union Papers now employs nearly 300 emaSwati, contributing significantly to local job creation and technical skills development.
“This is the circular economy in action,” Minister Khumalo stated. “It is a clear demonstration of our commitment to advancing industrial capacity while addressing environmental imperatives.”
The Government of Eswatini used the occasion to reaffirm its support for private sector-led growth and sustainable industrialisation. Minister Khumalo encouraged other businesses to follow Union Papers’ lead by investing in environmentally responsible practices that protect public health and the nation’s natural resources.
As the Omega Waste Incineration Plant begins full operations, it stands as a beacon of what is possible when strategic thinking meets environmental stewardship, paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient Eswatini.
