BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
MBABANE – Global hospitality group Hilton says Eswatini is an important part of its presence in Sub-Saharan Africa, citing its partnership with local investors and Government as an example of what can be achieved through long-term collaboration.
Hilton Vice President of Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean Victor Chalfoun said this during a leadership cocktail hosted at Hilton Garden Inn on Monday evening.
Chalfoun, who was visiting Eswatini for the first time, said the Kingdom was not simply another market for the international hospitality group.
“For Hilton, Eswatini is not simply another market. It is an important part of our presence in Sub-Saharan Africa and a wonderful example of what can be achieved when ambition is matched by strong partnerships and a shared commitment to progress,” he said.
He said Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane had allowed the group to contribute to the country’s hospitality and tourism landscape, but stressed that the impact extended beyond the performance of the hotel.
“Hospitality is ultimately a people business. It creates jobs, develops skills, builds careers and, importantly, gives talented young people the opportunity to grow,” Chalfoun said.
He recognised the many Emaswati who have built and continue to build their careers with Hilton, saying the company was proud of their contribution.
Chalfoun also singled out the Public Service Pension Fund (PSPF) for its partnership with Hilton, saying strong partnerships were central to the group’s operations.
“I would particularly like to recognise and thank PSPF for their trust and partnership. Strong partnerships are at the heart of everything we do at Hilton, and the relationship we have built here demonstrates what is possible when partners share a long-term vision and a commitment to creating lasting value,” he said.
He said Hilton was excited to be exploring further opportunities together as the company looked to build on what had already been achieved in Eswatini.
Chalfoun further acknowledged the role of Government and the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs in supporting tourism and investment.
He said collaboration between Government, investors and the private sector was essential to creating an environment where tourism could grow and investment could have a lasting impact.
Tourism and Environmental Affairs Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane said Hilton Garden Inn had added significant value to Eswatini’s tourism aspirations, particularly through employment and investment.
She said the country was pursuing a goal of attracting two million tourists and generating E2 billion in tourism receipts by 2027.
“This national goal is anchored on the presence of investments such as the Hilton Garden Inn in accomplishing its goal,” Mkhonta-Simelane said.
The Minister said Government remained committed to working with tourism partners in pursuit of the country’s tourism objectives.
PSPF CEO Masotja Vilakati also welcomed Hilton’s investment, saying the growing demand for quality accommodation and hospitality services presented opportunities for the country.
He said Eswatini’s improved air connectivity, tourism attractions, cultural events, music festivals, gaming and business conferences were contributing to the country’s positioning as a tourism destination.
Vilakati said investments such as Hilton Garden Inn created jobs, stimulated local businesses and strengthened Eswatini’s position on the global tourism map.
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