BY MACHAWE FAKUDZE AND NIMROD HLOPHE
EZULWINI – His Majesty King Mswati III has commended the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF) for expanding its finances from E500 million to E700 million this year.
Speaking during the 2025/26 Ingwenyama Cup Gala Dinner at the Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre (ICC) on Wednesday night, His Majesty highlighted that the fund’s impressive trajectory reflects genuine cooperation, hard work and sound stewardship across the ministry, Board, management and staff.
“I commend the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund for its impressive growth, from E500 million last year to E700 million even before the end of this year. This progress demonstrates the value of cooperation, hard work, and sound stewardship,” the King said.
Looking ahead, His Majesty expressed optimism that sustained commitment and prudent management could see the fund reach an unprecedented E1 billion milestone as the year draws to a close. He emphasised the critical role SMVAF plays in national development, particularly through assisting road accident victims and driving road safety initiatives across the kingdom.
“The fund continues to play an important role in supporting the nation’s development, particularly through its work in assisting road accident victims and promoting road safety. I encourage all those involved to maintain this momentum and ensure that the Fund remains sustainable and responsive to the needs of emaSwati,” he added.
Meanwhile, the King extended special congratulations to SMVAF Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Khangeziwe Mabuza and her team, stressing the vital role women play in leading organisations and growing the national economy.
“This demonstrates what unity, hard work, and sound stewardship can accomplish. Women play a crucial role in growing our economy and leading organisations towards greater achievement,” the King said.
He encouraged Mabuza to continue leading with dedication while working closely with all internal stakeholders.
Highlighting the absence of reported cases of corruption or embezzlement, His Majesty pointed to SMVAF as a prime example of transparency, accountability and good governance. He urged other public enterprises and private companies to emulate this standard to ensure public resources are managed prudently to serve all emaSwati.
The King further revealed that investors often cite the respect, cultural pride, and humility of emaSwati as key factors drawing them to Eswatini. He noted that these qualities, combined with a strong work ethic, build trust and open doors to investment and economic opportunities.
Urging emaSwati to uphold these values, His Majesty stressed that culture is far more than heritage.
“It is a national asset that can help attract investment, create jobs, and drive prosperity. By remaining respectful, humble, and hardworking while preserving their cultural identity, emaSwati can strengthen the country’s appeal and create opportunities for generations to come,” he said.
Prime Minister (PM) Russell Dlamini thanked His Majesty for gracing the gala dinner, emphasising that true independence must be rooted in preserving the nation’s culture while promoting sport.
He noted that Government attaches great importance to these ideals as part of the King’s Nkwe clarion call for urgency, efficiency and tangible development. The prime minister also commended SMVAF for sustaining a national platform that unites the country, celebrates local talent and promotes Eswatini’s cultural heritage through sport.
SMVAF Chairman Zithulele Gina said ongoing efforts to grow local talent and create sustainable livelihoods for artists and cultural practitioners must be strengthened. He highlighted the potential of the cultural economy, noting that Eswatini, as an oasis of cultural preservation, must turn its rich heritage into economic opportunity.
Citing figures from UNESCO, Gina noted that cultural festivals globally generate approximately E33.3 trillion (US$2 trillion) and support 50 million jobs, adding that Eswatini must position itself to tap into this massive global opportunity.
Gina revealed that discussions are ongoing with Eswatini National Arts and Culture Council CEO Stanley Dlamini to explore ways of advancing the sector. He thanked corporate partners, including eMlembe Water, for supporting the Ingwenyama Cup, while calling on more businesses to join the initiative.
