BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI — Entrepreneurs, business leaders and stakeholders gathered at The George Hotel on Monday, July 27, 2026, for the Regional FNB Small and Medium Enterprise Growth Forum, which focused on promoting business growth, financial empowerment and opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
FNB Eswatini Economist Sephutile Mhlongo challenged business owners to pay close attention to changing consumer spending patterns and understand which products and services customers are prioritising. Mhlongo said successful businesses needed to identify market trends early and adapt quickly to changing customer needs. “Businesses need to understand where the market is going, not where it has been,” she said. She also encouraged entrepreneurs to monitor consumer behaviour and use changing market trends to guide their business decisions, saying businesses that failed to adapt risked being left behind.
The forum also featured a Business Toolkit masterclass led by FNB Commercial Sales Manager Dumisani Sikhosana, which highlighted the importance of financial literacy for individuals and businesses. Sikhosana said financial literacy helped individuals make informed decisions, build savings, protect their families and strengthen personal financial resilience. For businesses, he said financial skills were essential for survival, improved budgeting and greater resilience, while also helping businesses make informed decisions and improve their chances of accessing credit.
Zakhele Masuku from the Small Enterprise Development Company (SEDCO) said the organisation assists businesses to formalise, grow and become funding-ready. Masuku said SEDCO supports entrepreneurs through business plan development, capacity building, legal services and business linkages. He said such support was important in helping small businesses strengthen their operations and take advantage of available growth opportunities.
Dr Mbongeni Dlamini, founder of Swaziland Radiology Services, urged entrepreneurs to choose their business partners wisely. Dlamini said business owners should partner with individuals who support their ambitions and believe in their vision. He said the right business partner could play an important role in supporting the growth and success of an enterprise.
Cebolenkosi Mahlalela, Manager of Taxpayer Education and Information at the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS), said the organisation educates business owners on the importance of keeping proper financial records. Mahlalela also reminded business owners that those who owe the ERS may make payment arrangements through the Sondzela Sikhulume programme, allowing them to settle their outstanding obligations in instalments.
She urged business owners to ensure that their businesses are properly registered and comply with their tax obligations. The forum provided entrepreneurs with an opportunity to gain insights into market trends, financial management, business partnerships, tax compliance and the support available to help SMEs become more sustainable and competitive.
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(Courtesy Pic)
