By NOKUNCEDA MAGAGULA | 2025-03-22

Prime Minister (PM) Russell Mmiso Dlamini says the Eswatini will "roll out the red carpet" for investors that seek to establish businesses in Eswatini.

The Prime was speaking during the launch of the Eswatini Investment Conference 2025 in Ezulwini this morning.

The conference is aimed at attracting further foreign direct and domestic direct investment into Eswatini and is an extension of the various strategic engagements Eswatini has been having with prospective investors worldwide. It is expected that key local, regional and global stakeholders will be in attendance.

Various government and private sector participants in Eswatini’s business community including investors, financiers; economic development support institutions, financial intermediaries as well as policy makers will be unpacking the value of Eswatini as an investment and trade destination.  

The concept of the conference supports the strategic objective of positioning Eswatini
The PM described the conference, to be held on 14-15 May 2025, as a game changer and a bold stride by government to ignite inclusive exponential economic growth in line with the aspirations of the government programme of action (POA) and the under-development grand plan of transformation. 

Dlamini said the country was a land of immense potential, that was largely untapped, and we are committed to rolling out the red carpet for our investors.

“We want to ensure that they derive as much value from investing in Eswatini as we do from their contributions,” he said.

The Premier said the conference was a testament to government’s commitment to lifting Emaswati out of poverty and building a prosperous future for all. He emphasised that the conference, themed ‘Creating Opportunities for Rapid Economic Transformation,’ was therefore a critical step toward realising the country’s vision.

“It is a direct implementation of the ‘nkwe’ mandate, as proclaimed by His Majesty King Mswati III during Sibaya in 2023,” said the Premier.

He explained that to achieve the country’s ambitious goal of reaching 12 per cent annual GDP growth by 2029, government was implementing targeted programmes and policy strategies.  

He said central to this effort was creating a business-ready environment, attracting significant foreign direct investments (FDI), and stimulating domestic investments for reinvestment and expansion. 

He said the investment conference was a strategic government-led initiative, which would be delivered by the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) under the aegis of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade.  He added that it will set the stage for future events aimed at driving economic growth.

It brings together investors, financiers, economic development institutions, financial intermediaries, and policymakers from Eswatini, the region, and across the globe.”
Through this conference, government aims to reaffirm Eswatini’s position as a premier investment destination in Southern Africa.

It will serve as a platform to announce strategic, high-impact projects led by the private sector, while also showcasing Government’s policy reforms and programmes designed to foster an enabling business environment.

These include the one-stop shop initiative and the investment policy.” With the support of its institutions, government has identified and screened several projects to be unveiled during the conference but the door is not closed yet.

These span key sectors such as manufacturing, energy, agriculture, and agro-processing, all of which are pivotal to government’s PoA.

“These projects will not only drive economic performance but also create thousands of jobs, uplifting the lives of Emaswati,” said Dlamini.
The PM also announced the logo for the Eswatini Investment Conference.

Eswatini among countries
striving for investors’ attention

Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sibane Mangomezulu says Eswatini is among countries striving for investors’ attention.

He noted that countries were fiercely competing for investors, creating a dynamic investment landscape. H stated that investors expected nations to clearly highlight the benefits of their opportunities. Mngomezulu said building and nurturing strategic relationships was essential.  

“Investors want to know who else is investing and learn from their experiences,” he said. He said Eswatini enhanced its appeal through strong connections and endorsements

“By showcasing a pipeline of short- to medium-term projects, the nation reveals numerous opportunities,” he said.

The CEO said a gathering of investors would also help Emaswati understand government and business initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment and creating jobs. Aligned with the Nkwe Declaration, this initiative calls for both investors and Emaswati to collaborate in growing the economy. 

“The future of the economy depends on Emaswati's active participation,” he said.

‘Its a milestone which should
 be held annually - Sithofeni

Partner at African Alliance Sithofeni Ginidza, emphasised the importance of making the Investor Conference a regular occurrence rather than a one-time initiative.

Ginidza described it as a huge milestone that should be held annually to foster on-going connections among businesses.

“This conference should not be a once-off; it should be done on a regular basis,” Ginidza stated.  He highlighted the need for continual evolution in the business landscape.

He said the call for an annual conference aligned with the ambitious vision of achieving 12 per cent economic growth for Eswatini

Ginidza believes that facilitating connections between businesses is crucial to realizing this goal, asserting. He also noted that His Majesty King III during his speech from the throne, mentioned the transition of the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) into a development academy.

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