Times Of Swaziland: CONSUMER CHOICE FORUM EMPOWERS MSMEs

CONSUMER CHOICE FORUM EMPOWERS MSMEs
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Nhlanganiso Mkhonta on 17/03/2025 08:02:00


MBABANE – In a significant push to empower local businesses, the highly
anticipated Consumer Choices Forum was successfully hosted on Saturday, at the
Eswatini Revenue Service Auditorium.
Organised by A Peculiar People in celebration of World Consumer Rights Day, the
forum served as a crucial platform for micro, small and medium enterprises
(MSMEs) to gain insights into evolving consumer trends and sustainable business
practices.
The event was strategically designed for MSMEs set to participate in the
upcoming Made in Eswatini Consumer Fair 2025. These businesses were selected for
their commitment to authenticity, environmental responsibility, health and
safety standards and overall product quality—an essential move towards
responsible and sustainable entrepreneurship in Eswatini.
In his closing remarks, Melusi Zox Dlamini, Chairman of the forum, underscored
the importance of such engagements in shaping the future of local businesses.
“The Consumer Choices Forum is not just about understanding market trends;
it’s about equipping our local businesses with the tools and insights they
need to thrive in a competitive and evolving marketplace,” he said.
The forum featured an impressive lineup of industry leaders and experts who
shared valuable knowledge through a series of presentations aimed at enhancing
business practices and improving consumer experiences. Key topics covered
included:
l Creating memorable consumer experiences.
l Leveraging AI-driven digital marketing.
l Navigating the shift to a cashless economy.
l Understanding tax obligations for micro-enterprises.
l Driving positive change through sustainable business practices.
The keynote address was delivered by Bongani Mdluli, Chairman of the Eswatini
Consumer Association Council, who stressed the importance of consumer trust and
the rise of the conscious consumer.
“Consumers are becoming more intentional with their spending. Businesses that
align with these values will not only survive but thrive,” Mdluli stated.
Notable speakers included:
l Claudia Castellanos, Co-Founder and CEO of Black Mamba, who shared strategies
for building a socially responsible brand.
l Sibusiso Mngadi, CEO of Stratcom Media, who outlined the power of digital
marketing in consumer engagement.
l Sara Vost, Head of Trade for MTN Bushfire and Luju Festival, who discussed the
importance of event participation and brand positioning.
A highlight of the forum was a dynamic panel discussion addressing modern
consumer behaviour, the influence of digital tools, and the importance of fair
competition and quality.
Discussion
The discussion underscored the rising demand for locally produced products and
how businesses can position themselves to meet this demand while maintaining
high quality and sustainability standards.
The forum took place against the backdrop of economic challenges currently
affecting both businesses and consumers in Eswatini. Rising inflation, the
increased cost of essential commodities such as electricity and fuel, and the
shift towards cashless transactions were among the pressing issues discussed.
The impact of geopolitical factors also surfaced during the discussions,
particularly the recent decision by the United States to cut funding to certain
Southern African countries, including Eswatini. This move has sparked concerns
about economic sustainability and foreign investment in the country.
As a result, businesses and policymakers are looking at alternative funding
strategies to strengthen local markets and reduce reliance on external aid. One
of the most symbolic moments of the event was when attendees took a collective
pledge to support locally produced and sustainable goods. This commitment
reflects a growing movement towards a self-sufficient economy driven by local
businesses.
The event was expertly managed by Programme Director Phila Dlamini, who ensured
a seamless flow of discussions and presentations, making the forum both engaging
and impactful.
The Consumer Choices Forum 2025 has undoubtedly set the tone for a new era of
conscious consumerism and business excellence in Eswatini. By fostering
collaboration among MSMEs, encouraging sustainable practices, and highlighting
the value of locally produced goods, the event has positioned itself as a key
milestone in the development of Eswatini’s small business sector.
With the Made in Eswatini Consumer Fair 2025 on the horizon, local businesses
are now better prepared to navigate modern consumer expectations, digital
transformation and economic challenges.
The forum has laid a strong foundation for an entrepreneurial ecosystem that
prioritises quality, sustainability, and consumer trust, ensuring that
Eswatini’s business landscape continues to thrive in an evolving global
market.