The reform is being implemented in two main phases: the Preparatory Phase and the Establishment Phase. The Preparatory Phase, completed by I.T. Transport in 2020, focused on drafting the RA Bill, which led to the Roads Authority Act of 2023. This act provides the foundation for establishing the RA.

The Establishment Phase aims to operationalize the RA, restructure the MoPWT to focus on road sector policy and assign routine road maintenance responsibilities to Construction Enterprises. This phase seeks to streamline road management, enhance policy oversight, and ensure ongoing maintenance of road infrastructure.

During the Establishment Phase, significant progress has been made in developing the CE Model and the organizational design for the RA. Draft procedures for establishing CEs are in progress, including processes for selecting and recruiting personnel for ownership and management. The organizational design is also being refined, with further adjustments anticipated based on funding and operational needs. Ongoing discussions are addressing key issues such as financing for road maintenance, potential resistance to reforms from the industry, and necessary legislative amendments regarding proposed preferential terms for CEs.

At the start of the Establishment Phase, the Permanent Secretary of MoPWT pledged to champion the reforms and ensure the RA is operationalized promptly to fulfil its mandate. In recent consultations, he stated, “We are collaborating with stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Public Service, and Attorney General’s office, to ensure the RA receives the support needed to enhance road asset management in our country.”

The project is set to continue until March 28, 2025, and is making good progress toward its goals. By the end of the project, the RA is expected to be well on its way to full operational status, achieving significant advancements in its proposed mandate and establishing a more efficient and effective road management system for Eswatini.