ECPA CONCERNED WITH WORKERS MIGRATING

MBABANE – The Eswatini Credit Providers Association (ECPA) has raised concerns about reports of individuals misrepresenting facts to lending institutions and borrowing money with no intention of repaying the loans and then leave for overseas jobs.  

In an interview with this publication, ECPA Chairperson Thulani Dlamini said this act was not only morally wrong, but also constitutes a criminal offence. He said it has theft, misrepresentation, and fraud elements. “Individuals who engage in such deceitful behaviour risk facing severe consequences,” said Dlamini. ECPA is an association that was formed in 2018, and is made up of voluntary members of licensed credit providers such as;
• Amandla Financial Services
• First Finance Company
• Letshego Financial Services (Eswatini)
• Select Limited.

This comes after the association had noted a trend from some civil servants, particularly among teachers and nurses, who are leaving for overseas job opportunities, who approach lending institutions, and borrow money associated with their relocation costs with no intention of repaying the loans. The chairperson mentioned that while they acknowledged the aspirations of emaSwati seeking overseas job opportunities, they emphasised the importance of ethical conduct and financial responsibility in the borrowing process. Dlamini said they acknowledged the growing trend of emaSwati migrating for overseas job opportunities. He said this undoubtedly presented individuals with prospects for personal and professional growth.  

He said however, it was also worth mentioning that, the departure of skilled individuals could, in the long run, potentially hinder the development of key industries in the country. He said, therefore, it was essential for the country and institutions to collaborate with government and government Agencies and stakeholders to implement strategies that encourage skills retention and support the growth of local businesses. Dlamni added that ultimately, while overseas job opportunities offer emaSwati the chance to improve their livelihoods, it was crucial to strike a balance between facilitating such opportunities and safeguarding the interests of the local economy and workforce.

concerned

“With that said, while on this trend, we are concerned about reports of individuals misrepresenting facts to lending institutions and borrowing money with no intention of repaying the loans and then leaving for overseas jobs,” he said. Dlamini highlighted that ECPA remained committed to serving the nation as well as firmly protecting the interests of both borrowers and lenders. “The association urges all stakeholders to join hands in promoting responsible financial behaviour and ensuring a secure and prosperous future for existing and prospective clients,” the chairperson said. He said the ECPA was advising their clients who have either left or were planning to leave for overseas jobs to honour their existing loan repayment obligations. The ECPA urges those who have already committed this act to immediately make contact with the respective lending institutions.

enforcement

Failure to do so may result in the matter being handed over to law enforcement agencies and subsequently escalated to the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL). Additionally, individuals involved in this act risk being blacklisted with credit bureaus. Furthermore, the ECPA advises individuals who may be contemplating in engaging in this illicit act to refrain from doing so. The association urges all clients who use their services to act responsibly and maintain their integrity and trust. 

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