42 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I October 2026
PROJECT project
COMMISSIONING IN A LIVE ENVIRONMENT Compounding these technical challenges is the fact that commissioning is taking place in a live environment. At the time of writing, 28 of the 45 HVAC systems were operational, with the remainder being brought online in phases. The building is already hosting major events, including royal functions and international delegations. This stop-start process has extended the commissioning timeline but has also provided valuable realworld validation of system performance.
Early indications are positive. Operational systems have maintained stable temperatures and acceptable indoor air quality under varying load conditions, with ongoing adjustments focused on fine-tuning air balancing, damper control and system response.
While HVAC forms the backbone of the building’ s environmental strategy, it is supported by an equally complex network of other engineering services – all of which were undertaken by VMG Consultants. The wet services design, for example, incorporates large-scale potable water storage and reticulation, sewer systems capable of handling high occupant densities, and a rainwater harvesting system with a 200 000l capacity. Fire protection is extensive; indeed the entire complex is sprinkler protected, but also includes over 200 fire hose reel cabinets, hydrant systems and specialised suppression systems in critical areas. Kitchen installations are fully integrated with gas supply, extraction systems, makeup air systems and fire interlocks forming part of a coordinated life safety strategy.
These systems are not independent; rather, they are deeply interconnected. The use of VRF heat recovery for hot water generation is a clear example of how HVAC and plumbing design have been integrated to achieve both efficiency and operational excellence. Similarly, the co-ordination required to accommodate ducting, piping and fire systems within constrained ceiling spaces highlights the importance of a holistic engineering approach.
operator-level maintenance with consultant oversight and specialist contractor support. Training, documentation and system familiarisation are key priorities to ensure that the facility’ s operational team can manage the complexity of the installed systems.
Ultimately, the Eswatini ICC stands as an example of how large-scale HVAC design is evolving. By moving away from centralised, monolithic systems towards a more distributed, intelligent architecture, the project demonstrates that flexibility
and efficiency need not be mutually exclusive. Instead, they can be mutually reinforcing – provided the design is approached with the necessary technical rigor and willingness to challenge convention. RACA
The Eswatini International Convention Centre combines premium architectural finishes with concealed building services, requiring careful coordination between HVAC, electrical, plumbing and fire protection systems to preserve the building ' s aesthetic integrity.
ENGINEERING AN ENDURING LEGACY Looking ahead, the long-term success of the ICC will depend on a structured maintenance strategy. Current plans envisage a layered approach, combining
Air-handling and VRF equipment integrated within the rooftop services installation.
42 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I October 2026