MBABANE:Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has urged investors not to be discouraged by the geographical position of the Kingdom of eSwatini but instead, use the rich cultural heritage to establish businesses in the tourism sector.
Addressing the Indonesia-Africa Forum this week, the PM said investors could establish tourism facilities and strive within the tourism industry.
“While Eswatini may not have vast coastlines, we are rich in cultural heritage, resilience, and an unyielding spirit that defines our nation. As a land-locked country bordered by economic giants like South Africa and Mozambique, we see our geography not as a limitation but as an opportunity. Our unique offerings-cultural festivals, wildlife reserves, and eco-tourism opportunities-present significant potential in the tourism sector. We are eager to partner with investors to develop luxury eco-lodges and adventure tourism facilities that cater to high-spending tourists,” said the Prime Minister.
The PM further touched on opportunities that come with trade markets under the Southern African Development Cooperation (SADC), Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA), the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as well as market penetration into European and American markets through bilateral arrangements.
“It therefore, stands to reason that, any investor into the Kingdom, will, by extension, enjoy that access”, he said.
Eswatini is currently hosting the International Trade Fair, an event that seeks to promote trade and investment, King Mswati and Zulu King MisuZulu graced the official opening last weekend.
“Our rich cultural heritage should inspire investors to establish businesses in the tourism sector”, Prime Minister Russell Dlamini addresses Indonesia-Africa Forum(pic: Gov).