BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
SHISELWENI— The Small Enterprises Development Company (Small Enterprises Development Company (SEDCO)) has called for increased participation of young people and women in the upcoming Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2026, describing the platform as a critical gateway for entrepreneurs to showcase innovation, scale up their businesses, and gain national recognition.
The call was made during the launch of the Shiselweni Business Incubation Programme held in Shiselweni on July 6, 2026, an initiative implemented by SEDCO in partnership with the Eswatini National Youth Council (Eswatini National Youth Council), aimed at strengthening youth-led enterprise development and promoting inclusive economic participation.
Speaking at the event, SEDCO Chief Executive Officer Khethiwe Mhlanga encouraged young entrepreneurs to fully utilise national platforms such as the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, noting that they play a vital role in transforming small enterprises into competitive and sustainable businesses.
She said the awards should not be viewed only as a competition, but as a strategic platform that offers visibility, networking opportunities, and access to growth pathways that can elevate businesses to the next level.
Mhlanga further urged young people to shift from survivalist business activities towards structured, scalable enterprises capable of competing in local markets and reducing reliance on imports.
“We want to see Emaswati products on our shelves, created by young people like you,” she said, highlighting the importance of local production in strengthening the national economy.
She commended the youth who participated in the incubation programme for demonstrating commitment to self-development and entrepreneurship, noting that their presence reflects a growing culture of enterprise and innovation among young people in Eswatini.
“You are already winners because you made the decision to be here, to learn, and to grow,” Mhlanga said. “What matters now is how you apply what you learn to build something that lasts.”
Mhlanga stressed that entrepreneurship requires discipline, consistency, and long-term vision, urging participants not to abandon their businesses when faced with alternative employment opportunities, but instead to nurture and grow them into viable enterprises.
She emphasized the importance of core business fundamentals, including record-keeping, financial management, and proper pricing strategies, which she described as essential for business survival and growth.
According to her, proper record-keeping enables entrepreneurs to monitor stock, track profitability, and make informed decisions, while also strengthening compliance with regulatory frameworks such as the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS).
Beyond technical skills, Mhlanga highlighted networking and collaboration as key drivers of entrepreneurial success, encouraging young business owners to build relationships and share knowledge within their communities.
“Business does not grow in isolation,” she said. “Through networking, you open doors to customers, suppliers, and opportunities that can transform your journey.”
She also praised the Eswatini National Youth Council for its holistic approach to youth development, which combines entrepreneurship training with mental health awareness and overall well-being support.
Mhlanga noted that effective youth empowerment requires a balanced approach that addresses both economic and personal development, ensuring young entrepreneurs are well-prepared for real-world business challenges.
The Shiselweni Business Incubation Programme is expected to provide participants with practical skills, mentorship, and continuous business development support aimed at strengthening their entrepreneurial capacity.
SEDCO reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young people and women through inclusive economic programmes and national platforms such as the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2026, which remain central to building a strong and competitive small business sector in Eswatini.
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(Courtesy Pic)
