BY NONCEDO SHABANGU
MBABANE- Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, has announced a major investment that is set to transform the Sigwe community. The Minister revealed that Amandla Omnotho, led by President and Founder Gugulethu Xaba, will establish a footwear manufacturing factory in the area.
The project is designed not only to create employment but also to build long term ownership opportunities for Emaswati. Amandla Omnotho, a company with strong roots in both South Africa and Eswatini, is partnering with the Sigwe youth to involve them as employees, future investors and eventual co owners. Minister Khumalo stressed that this initiative will revive Eswatini’s leather value chain while stimulating sustainable economic growth from the ground up.
At full capacity, the factory will produce 5000 pairs of shoes per month, beginning with school shoes. In its first phase, it will create 50 permanent jobs, with plans to expand to 120 jobs as operations grow. Local workers will benefit from on the job training, and the company has pledged to provide improved remuneration in line with the Kingdom’s Gazette.
Production and training will be spearheaded by Thulani Goba, an experienced footwear specialist. His expertise will ensure that Sigwe workers gain practical skills while contributing to the factory’s growth. The project has also drawn strong local support. Member of Parliament Cruise Ngcamphalala expressed gratitude to Their Majesties for appointing Minister Khumalo, praising his deep understanding of the Ministry’s vision and the needs of the Sigwe community.
Looking ahead, the Ministry will soon visit Sigwe to introduce the contractor and officially launch the project. This development marks a new chapter for the area, with lasting benefits expected for both the community and the wider economy.
(Courtesy Pics)
