MBABANE – The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade has called upon all micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country to affiliate with any of the locally-recognised business federations.
This is meant to strengthen their voice in economic policymaking and access greater business opportunities.
This call was made by the ministry’s Promotion Officer, Philisiwe Dlamini, during her presentation at the FNB SME Seminar held on the sidelines of the recently concluded Eswatini International Trade Fair.
Dlamini expressed concern that most local businesses remain outside the fold of the country’s recognised federations namely the Federation of Eswatini Business Community (FESBC), the Business Federation of Eswatini (BUFE) and Business Eswatini (BE).
It was quite telling when she asked the MSMEs present at this seminar whether they were members of any business federation and none responded positively.
This showed that small businesses are missing out on opportunities to have a seat at the table when key decisions affecting their growth and survival are made.
Dlamini explained that government regularly engages these federations when discussing policies and reforms, especially on matters affecting the private sector. She noted that without formal affiliation, MSMEs risk being excluded from these crucial conversations.
She further revealed that the ministry, working alongside the Citizen Economic Empowerment Council, is currently conducting consultations to develop regulations for the new Citizen Economic Empowerment Act.
The Act aims to prioritise emaSwati-owned businesses in sectors traditionally dominated by foreign enterprises, including retail and certain service industries.
“By joining federations, MSMEs will be able to make meaningful submissions during this process so that the law truly reflects their needs,” she said.
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FESBC lauds government foraddressing challenges
MBABANE – FESBC Hhohho Regional Chairperson Isaac Gamedze also praised government for its recent commitment to accelerate payments to MSMEs supplying goods and services to the state.
“For too long, delays in government payments have crippled many small businesses that rely on steady cash flows to survive,” he said. “The MSME sector is the backbone of our economy and this initiative will go a long way in restoring confidence and ensuring sustainability.”
The collective message from both government and business leaders is clear: MSMEs must overcome the isolation that limits their potential. Affiliation with federations not only amplifies their voice, but also gives them access to networks, resources and opportunities that individual businesses often struggle to secure on their own.
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