MBABANE – The Minister for Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo has strengthened the governance structure of the Eswatini Standards Authority (ESWASA).
The minister has appointed two new council members with specialised expertise in agriculture and construction.
The appointments were formally announced during a press conference convened by the minister, who emphasised government’s commitment to enhancing corporate governance, institutional effectiveness and accountability within public institutions under his ministry.
The newly-appointed members are Themba Khumalo, representing the Ministry of Agriculture and Mbongeni Simelane, representing the construction industry. Both are serving their first term on the ESWASA Council.
Khumalo holds a Master of Science in Animal Science and Management, bringing valuable technical knowledge from the agricultural sector, which remains a cornerstone of Eswatini’s economy.
His expertise is expected to support the development and enforcement of standards related to agricultural production, food safety and livestock management.
Simelane, a Master of Business Administration candidate, represents the construction industry. His business and industry-focused background is expected to strengthen ESWASA’s engagement with the private sector, particularly in ensuring that construction materials, infrastructure projects and industrial products comply with national quality and safety standards.
In his address, the minister highlighted the critical role played by ESWASA in the development and implementation of national standards, quality assurance, conformity assessment and metrology services.
“These functions are essential for safeguarding consumer interests, enhancing industrial competitiveness, facilitating both domestic and international trade, and ensuring that products and services originating from Eswatini meet acceptable quality and safety requirements,” he said.
The minister stressed that ESWASA must be guided by a council composed of individuals with the appropriate expertise, integrity and commitment to public service in order to effectively fulfil its mandate.
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