Times Of Swaziland: PARLY BACKS POLICIES EMPOWERING BUSINESSES

PARLY BACKS POLICIES EMPOWERING BUSINESSES
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Nhlanganiso Mkhonta on 04/02/2025 08:23:00


MBABANE – Parliament remains committed to strengthening policies that empower
local businesses, ensuring that entrepreneurs and small enterprises receive the
necessary support to thrive. This is according to Welcome Dlamini, Member of
Parliament (MP) for Mbabane East Constituency. Speaking at the press briefing
for the Made in Eswatini Consumer Fair 2025 registration launch, MP Dlamini
reaffirmed Parliament’s dedication to championing economic policies that
promote domestic industries, prioritise local procurement and create an enabling
environment for SMEs. “As leaders, we have a duty to create an enabling
environment for local businesses to thrive. The growth of our economy depends on
our ability to empower entrepreneurs, strengthen domestic industries and foster
a culture of consuming local products,” said Dlamini.
Platform
The Made in Eswatini Consumer Fair 2025, set for April 25 in Mbabane, will
provide local businesses with a platform to showcase their products, connect
with major retailers and access new markets. This initiative aligns with
government efforts to reduce reliance on imports and build a self-sufficient
economy. Dlamini highlighted Parliament’s ongoing efforts to push for policies
that prioritise local industries, ensuring that Eswatini’s economy benefits
from homegrown talent and businesses. Some of the key areas of support include:
Preferential procurement policies encourage government institutions and large
corporations to source goods and services locally. Stronger legal frameworks for
SMEs, ensuring that small businesses receive funding, training and
infrastructure support.
Incentives for local manufacturers, enabling them to compete with imported goods
and boost domestic production. Encouraging foreign investors to form
partnerships with local businesses, ensuring that investment opportunities
benefit Eswatini’s entrepreneurs. “Parliament continues to advocate for
economic policies that favour local industries, including preferential
procurement of locally made goods and enhanced support for small and
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs),” he stated. Dlamini described the upcoming
Made in Eswatini. Consumer Fair as a game-changer for local businesses, stating
that the event is not just an exhibition but an economic catalyst.
The fair, hosted by A Peculiar People in partnership with the Eswatini Consumer
Association, will serve as a strategic platform for businesses in fashion, food
production, crafts, beauty, beverages and home essentials to showcase their
products to potential buyers and investors.
The event aims to:
1. Provide visibility to local businesses and create opportunities for long-term
partnerships.
2. Facilitate direct market access, allowing entrepreneurs to sell their
products directly to consumers.
3. Stimulate job creation by driving demand for locally produced goods.
4. Celebrate Eswatini’s cultural heritage, reinforcing national pride and
economic self-sufficiency.
“This fair will not only drive economic empowerment, but also encourage
patriotism through supporting local businesses. Every purchase made at this
event is an investment in our nation’s economy,” emphasised Dlamini. The
event will coincide with National Flag Day, a public holiday, making it the
perfect opportunity for citizens to gather in celebration of Eswatini’s
economic potential and entrepreneurial spirit.
Participation
MP Dlamini urged businesses, entrepreneurs and the general public to take full
advantage of the Made in Eswatini Consumer Fair, stating that participation will
strengthen the country’s economy. “I encourage all business owners,
manufacturers and service providers to register for this fair. Whether you’re
a startup or an established company, this event is designed to boost your
visibility and market reach,” he said. He also called on consumers to attend
in large numbers, stating that choosing locally made products is a direct way to
support economic growth and job creation. The success of this initiative relies
heavily on public awareness and participation,” Dlamini stated.
In his closing remarks, Dlamini emphasised that the Made in Eswatini Consumer
Fair is more than just an event—it is a movement that represents a national
commitment to economic empowerment. “We believe in our own. We are ready to
support and elevate local businesses. We are committed to building a
self-sufficient and prosperous Eswatini,” he said. As Eswatini continues to
push for economic transformation, Parliament’s commitment to policy reforms
that favor local businesses will play a critical role in shaping a sustainable
and resilient economy. With the Made in Eswatini Consumer Fair just months away,
businesses and consumers alike are encouraged to rally behind the initiative,
making April 25, 2025, a defining moment for local enterprise development.