BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI – A thriving Eswatini manufacturing company has received a major boost after the Republic of China (Taiwan), through its International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF), invested E770 500 in a new crane truck that is expected to accelerate business growth, improve productivity and create more employment opportunities for EmaSwati.
The investment, which includes VAT, forms part of Taiwan’s continued support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Eswatini through the ICDF Revolving Fund. The specialised crane truck, valued at E670 000 excluding VAT, was officially handed over during a visit by Republic of China (Taiwan) Deputy Ambassador (Minister) Ching-lin Tsuei and officials from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade.
The delegation toured the facilities of eHome Africa Smart Properties, a locally owned company that has rapidly established itself as one of Eswatini’s emerging manufacturers of container homes, container offices and aluminium products.
Founded by entrepreneur Malibongwe Xaba in 2023, the company began with a modest E25 000 start-up loan from the ICDF Revolving Fund. Within just a few years, the business has expanded significantly and now employs 15 people, demonstrating how targeted financial support can transform a small enterprise into a growing employer.
Beyond financing, the ICDF has provided ongoing mentorship, business coaching and management support to strengthen the company’s operational capacity, financial management and long-term sustainability. This combination of financial and technical assistance has enabled the business to improve efficiency while remaining competitive in the manufacturing sector.
Speaking during the visit, Xaba described the crane truck as a game-changing investment that will significantly improve the company’s ability to transport, lift and install heavy container structures.
He explained that the equipment will allow the business to undertake larger and more sophisticated projects while reducing operational costs and improving turnaround times.
“The crane truck will enable us to serve more customers efficiently, complete projects much faster and maintain the high-quality standards that our clients expect,” he said.
Xaba added that the company’s steady expansion has already created employment opportunities for young people in various technical and skilled positions, with further growth expected as production capacity increases.
Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade MSME Director Mluleki Dlamini praised Taiwan and the ICDF for their unwavering commitment to empowering Eswatini entrepreneurs.
He said the partnership between the Government of Eswatini and the Republic of China (Taiwan) continues to deliver meaningful economic benefits by helping local businesses expand, create jobs and contribute to national development.
“The Government of Eswatini working together with Taiwan has a great impact on the country, and we see a long-lasting relationship that will continue improving the lives of EmaSwati,” said Dlamini.
He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners to take advantage of financing opportunities available through the ICDF Revolving Fund and other government-supported initiatives designed to strengthen small businesses.
According to Dlamini, supporting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises remains one of the most effective ways to stimulate innovation, expand local manufacturing, create sustainable employment and build a resilient economy.
The latest investment in eHome Africa Smart Properties highlights the growing impact of the Eswatini-Taiwan partnership, demonstrating how strategic investment in local entrepreneurs is helping build stronger businesses while contributing to industrial development and economic growth across the country.
