MINISTER COMMISSIONS E90M TEXTILE FIRM CONSTRUCTION

PIGG’S PEAK – The Minister for Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, has officially commissioned commencement of the construction of a textile firm in Pigg’s Peak.

The construction of the factory, which is a born child of Far East Textiles is expected to commence in January next year and it is expected to take at least 12 months. It will be located at Zone 4 in Pigg’s Peak. When making his remarks, Khumalo said the construction of this factory shell exemplifies the practical implementation of government’s decentralisation policy.
He said decentralised initiatives such as this are instrumental in reducing spatial disparities, redistributing income and mitigating national inequality. Khumalo said this project aligns with the findings of the Poverty Participation Assessment, where communities articulated their aspirations for inclusive development.

Commitment

He stated that by responding to these voices, they ensure that government policies and programmes deliver tangible benefits that resonate with the real needs of the people. “By working collaboratively with all stakeholders, we reaffirm our commitment to driving Eswatini’s industrialisation agenda forward,” said the minister.  Khumalo added that the construction of this factory shell stands as a testament to what can be achieved through synergetic efforts between government, the private sector and local communities.

He said beyond serving as a physical space for industry, it is a beacon for attracting investment, nurturing small and medium enterprises and driving sustainable economic transformation.
He said upon completion, this facility will generate employment opportunities, foster skills development and stimulate economic activity in Pigg’s Peak and its surrounding areas.
He added that the indirect benefits will ripple through various sectors—boosting retail, was transport, housing and local commerce, thereby creating a robust and interconnected local economy.

Khumalo further made a call for collective action, urging all stakeholders—government, private sector, and community leaders—to sustain this spirit of unity and shared purpose.
“Let this factory shell become a symbol of what is possible when we work together towards a common goal. Together, we can make Pigg’s Peak a shining example of industrial progress, economic empowerment, and national development,” he said. The minister urged the investor being Far East Textiles to prioritise hiring local residents.

Cottage

Tokky Hou, the Managing Director (MD) of Far East Textiles said it was fascinating that this project was initiated by a liSwati rather than foreigners. She said such shows that emaSwati are also capable. Hou said through this she wants to create more other business people like her, who will be able to grow and create their own businesses. She said apart from the main factory, there will be other cottage factories that will be established, where women will use the waste from the main factory and do other projects. The businesswoman acknowledged that the textile industry is faced with many challenges, currently, but there is also a huge potential for growth.  

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