MBABANE – Local businesses demonstrated remarkable growth, resilience and innovation during the second edition of the Made in Eswatini Consumer Fair held along Dr Sishayi Road in Mbabane yesterday.
Consumers and government officials praised the quality and competitiveness of products being produced locally.
The fair courtesy of A Peculiar People, which attracted scores of local exhibitors from various sectors of the economy, once again placed the spotlight on Eswatini-made products and services as entrepreneurs seized the opportunity to directly engage with customers and market their brands.
From agriculture and manufacturing to fashion, customised fragrances, handbags, crafts and clothing, the event reflected the growing diversity of local enterprises that continue to emerge within the country’s business landscape.
Minister for Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo commended local businesses for the high standards of products being showcased, saying the quality demonstrated that emaSwati enterprises were increasingly becoming competitive both locally and internationally.
“What has stood out for me is the quality of products produced by our local businesses. These are products that can compete with international brands and some of these businesses are already exporting to outside markets,” he said.
The minister said the growth being displayed by local entrepreneurs was a clear indication that Eswatini’s small business sector was steadily evolving into an important pillar of economic growth and employment creation.
He applauded the resilience shown by Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), noting that despite economic challenges faced over the years, many local businesses had continued to innovate and improve the quality of their products.
Khumalo further called for continued government support towards local enterprises, especially MSMEs, saying they played a critical role in driving economic inclusion and empowering ordinary emaSwati.
He said supporting local businesses was essential in ensuring that more money circulated within the local economy, while also creating sustainable employment opportunities.
The minister also urged large corporations and established companies to intentionally support local businesses by integrating them into their supply chains as suppliers and service providers.
“We need to see large companies opening doors for local businesses because the capability is there. What we are seeing today proves that local businesses can deliver quality products and services,” he said.
The fair provided entrepreneurs with a rare opportunity to interact directly with consumers, receive immediate feedback on their products and increase brand visibility.
Several exhibitors expressed excitement over the exposure gained through the event, saying such initiatives were important in helping local businesses grow their customer base while also encouraging emaSwati to buy locally produced goods.
Others said the fair also created networking opportunities among businesses from different sectors, potentially opening doors for collaborations and partnerships.
The event attracted a significant number of consumers who moved from stall to stall exploring the wide range of products on display.
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