BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima sees the efforts of the youth as vital to the much-needed economic growth and development of the country.
Nzima said this last week Friday (November 22, 2024) during the official opening of the Second Umliba Youth Conference. The event took place at The George Hotel in Manzini.
He said the theme, ‘Tech Entrepreneurship beyond the Horizon,’ reflected the boundless opportunities awaiting the country in the intersection of technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. “It is a reminder that your efforts as entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators are vital to strengthening our economy and enriching our society,” Nzima said.
The minister described the conference as more than just a meeting of youth entrepreneurs, but a catalyst for innovation, a launch-pad for collaboration, and a space where ideas were transformed into impactful ventures.
“As young people, you hold the key to unlocking the potential of this nation, and I applaud you for stepping up to the challenge of building Eswatini’s tomorrow. The conference offers a perfect platform for sharing ideas, forming partnerships, and discovering new opportunities that will help you thrive,” he said.
Nzima told the youth that His Majesty’s Government, through the Ministry of Sport, Culture and Youth Affairs, was fully committed to empowering them. Over the years, the Government had worked tirelessly to create policies and programs that supported young people in sports, culture, and entrepreneurship. “From the Youth Enterprise and Revolving Fund to the introduction of other youth-focused initiatives, we have strived to create pathways for your success,” he said.
“Imagine the possibilities: technology connecting young athletes with global teams, AI predicting trends in our cultural industries, and creative solutions turning Eswatini into a leader in sports and cultural entrepreneurship.”
The minister said these were not distant dreams, but they were opportunities waiting to be seized. Conferences like Umliba inspired them to think beyond what they knew and created what did not yet exist.
“To the participants herein present, my message is simple: take what you have, start where you are, and make the most of it. Whether you are in sports, culture, or any other field, the future is yours to define,” he said. He encouraged them to look at today’s challenges as opportunities to innovate, grow, and lead.
The minister urged the private sector to support these young minds. Sometimes, the most unconventional ideas led to the most extraordinary breakthroughs, according to Nzima. He urged the private sector to work together with Government to invest in the dreams of our youth, for they held the blueprint for Eswatini’s progress.
He thanked the organisers, co-hosts, and everyone involved in making the conference a success. He said their efforts created a movement that would only grow stronger. “Let us continue to build on this momentum and make each edition of this conference even more impactful than the last,” he said.
The minister reminded the youth that the road ahead was filled with challenges, but it was also filled with opportunities. “Seize them, innovate with courage, and build a future that not only changes your lives but transforms our nation. Together, we can turn dreams into achievements and ambitions into legacies,” Nzima concluded.
(Pics: YERF)