By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE:Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini says businesses within the Small and Medium Enterprise(SME) must be supported to transform the economy.

The PM was speaking through his representative Dr Thambo Gina, the Minister of Economic Planning and Development during the official opening of the inaugural Eswatini MSME Conference on Monday, Commerce, Industry and Trade Minister Mancoba Khumalo was present.

Government online platforms reported that, “the three(3)-day Conference is bringing together entrepreneurs, Government officials, financial sector leaders, private sector innovators, academia, and development partners” from the region and beyond to engage and exchange ideas aimed at accelerating the growth, competitiveness, and resilience of MSMEs. 

“Eswatini’s economic future is bright because our people are resilient, innovative, and entrepreneurial by nature. From the young digital innovator in the city, to the smallholder agro-processor in rural communities, to the craft maker, manufacturer, logistics operator, and creative entrepreneur, we see every day the ingenuity that drives this nation forward. Our responsibility as Government and stakeholders is to clear the path, reduce the barriers, and build a system that works for them. A system that finances their ambitions, equips them with skills, connects them to markets, and rewards innovation, resilience, and quality,” said the PM.

On another note, the Prime Minister said the country must demonstrate seriousness to transform the economy by empowering MSMEs.

“If we are serious about accelerating economic transformation, then we must be serious about empowering MSMEs. This conference is one more step in that journey. The conversations we begin here must translate into action; the commitments we make must be fulfilled; and the partnerships we form must endure. Across the world, MSMEs are recognised as engines of employment, innovation, and inclusive economic participation. Here at home, they are central to job creation, women and youth empowerment, and the diversification of our economy. Their contribution to our GDP is not only significant, it is indispensable,” he said.