By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE:Mancoba Khumalo,the Minister of Commerce,Industry and Trade has emphasized the importance of ensuring that businesses under the Small and Medium Enterprises(SMEs) have access to finance.

The Minister, as quoted by Government online platforms,was speaking on Wednesday when launching the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2024, that seek to recognise the excellence of MSMEs in the country.

“This initiative aligns perfectly with the inspiring vision set forth by His Majesty, challenging and inspiring us all to reach new heights.To turn this vision into reality, we must join hands and work diligently and collaboratively.It’s a team effort that requires the involvement of the Government, private sector, development partners,financial institutions, and, of course, our incredible entrepreneurs themselves.We need to ensure that our entrepreneurs have access to financing, and we will do this by enhancing their business skills through top-notch training and mentorship programs. Moreover, we are determined to open up new markets for our outstanding products and services.Our ultimate goal is to establish Eswatini as a beacon of innovation and quality on the continent. This ambitious vision demands a concerted effort from all stakeholders. The Government is committed to providing a conducive environment for business growth, which means implementing supportive policies, investing in infrastructure development, and facilitating access to finance,” said the Commerce Minister.