MANZINI – EIPA has taken a historic step into the digital economy with the launch of BuyEswatini2.0, the country’s first ever government-led e-commerce platform.
The platform was launched on Tuesday during the ongoing Eswatini International Trade Fair at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre.
The platform, spearheaded by the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), aims to connect local businesses with consumers across the country and eventually the world through a user-friendly, secure and fully integrated online marketplace.
Speaking at the soft launch, EIPA Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sibusiso Mnisi described the initiative as a game-changer for Eswatini’s economy; one that will empower entrepreneurs, drive digital inclusion and open new market opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“Today marks a historic moment for our nation,” Mnisi declared to an audience of government officials, business leaders and entrepreneurs.
“We gather not just to launch a platform, but to ignite a new era of trade, innovation and opportunity for Eswatini.”
He said BuyEswatini2.0 represented far more than a technological advancement. “This platform is more than just a digital marketplace. It is a bridge connecting our entrepreneurs to new customers, new markets, and new possibilities,” he explained.
The programme comes at a time when e-commerce is transforming global trade and creating vast opportunities for small businesses to reach customers beyond their traditional geographic limits. For Eswatini, where SMEs form the backbone of the economy, BuyEswatini2.0 could unlock a new wave of growth, job creation and competitiveness.
Mnisi emphasised that BuyEswatini2.0 was born out of collaboration and shared commitment among multiple stakeholders.
“This milestone would not have been possible without the strength of our partnerships,” he said, extending appreciation to International Integration Systems Inc. for providing the technical expertise behind the platform’s development.
He also recognised MTN Eswatini for integrating its mobile payment solution, MoMo Pay, into the platform, ensuring that buyers and sellers can conduct secure transactions with ease.
“Through MoMo Pay, we are making sure that digital commerce is accessible to everyone, including the unbanked population,” Mnisi said.
Furthermore, he acknowledged the Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC) for coming on board as the logistics partner to ensure goods purchased on BuyEswatini2.0 can be delivered efficiently across the country.
“These partnerships exemplify what we can achieve when public and private sectors unite for the common good,” Mnisi added.
The platform is being rolled out in phases, with the current pilot stage focused on onboarding local businesses to test the system, gather feedback and refine its features before full-scale launch.
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Commerce Ministry backs digital push
MANZINI – Director of MSMEs in the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade Mluleki Dlamini said BuyEswatini2.0 marked a turning point for the country’s small business sector.
“This platform is not just a virtual marketplace it is a gateway to opportunity, a bridge between local talent and global demand and a catalyst for economic resilience,” Dlamini said.
He stressed that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are the heartbeat of Eswatini’s economy, contributing to job creation, innovation and community development.
“Yet many face barriers to market access, visibility and scalability. BuyEswatini2.0 breaks those barriers,” Dlamini said. “It offers every entrepreneur from the craftsperson in Lavumisa to the agro-processor in Pigg’s Peak a chance to showcase their products, tell their stories and transact with confidence.”
According to Dlamini, BuyEswatini2.0 comes equipped with several features designed specifically for local businesses:
A user-friendly online shop tailored to the needs of Eswatini’s entrepreneurs, ensuring ease of use for both sellers and customers.
Secure payment systems through partnerships with financial service providers such as MTN MoMo Pay, with plans to add more payment options in future.
Integrated logistics solutions via EPTC to ensure reliable delivery of goods across the country.
Marketing tools to help businesses boost visibility, build their brand identity and attract more customers.
Training and technical support to equip SMEs with the skills needed to succeed in digital commerce.
“This is more than a platform; it is a movement,” Dlamini said. “A movement towards digital inclusion, economic diversification and national pride.”
He urged MSMEs to seize the opportunity by registering on the platform, participating actively and taking ownership of their digital future.
“Your products deserve to be seen, your voices deserve to be hear and your businesses deserve to grow,” Dlamini said.
Both EIPA Acting CEO Sibusiso Mnisi and Dlamini emphasised the role of consumers in making the platform a success by choosing to buy local.
*Full article available in our publication.
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