MBABANE – In a gathering marked by warmth, mutual respect, and a shared vision for the future, Business Eswatini (BE) recently hosted a heartfelt farewell luncheon in honour of Mr. Wandile Mtshali, the outgoing Chief Executive Officer of MTN Eswatini. The event, held in the strategic heart of the BE offices the “War Room” was a fitting tribute to a leader who has been at the forefront of corporate battle and innovation.
The BE Secretariat, led by CEO Mr. E. Nathi Dlamini, celebrated Mr. Mtshali not just as a business partner, but as a cherished member of the BE family. In his poignant remarks, Mr. Dlamini highlighted the profound partnership between the two institutions, stating, “You haven’t just been a partner; you’ve been a true ally in our mission for progress.”
Reflecting the depth of Mr. Mtshali’s impact, BE presented him with a carefully chosen gift: a Ficus Ginseng Bonsai tree. Mr. Dlamini eloquently unpacked its symbolism, describing it as a representation of “strength, new beginnings, and abundance.” He drew a powerful parallel between the art of bonsai which requires “patience, dedication, and foresight” and Mr. Mtshali’s own leadership style.
“You have cultivated teams, nurtured ideas, and grown a business that stands tall and resilient,” said Dlamini. “This bonsai, a living work of art, is a tribute to your ability to foster such impressive growth.” As an evergreen plant, it also stands as a lasting symbol of the enduring relationship between Mr. Mtshali and the business community in Eswatini.
The farewell was also an opportunity to applaud the monumental achievements of MTN Eswatini as an institution under Mr. Mtshali’s stewardship. The gathering erupted in pride as recent, significant accolades were highlighted: MTN Eswatini was announced as the Overall Winner of the prestigious MTN Group President & CEO Award for the Y’ello Care Programme, as well as the recipient of the Best Use of Digital Tools Award.
This double victory is a resounding testament to the innovative spirit, dedication, and profound community impact driven by the MTN Eswatini team. The award, which comes with a prize of USD 80,000 to be reinvested into Corporate Social Investment projects, underscores MTN’s unwavering commitment to its purpose of “Brightening Lives, Empowering Communities” across the Kingdom. Business Eswatini recognises and deeply values MTN as a member in good standing, whose contributions extend far beyond the boardroom and into the very fabric of our society.
In his heartfelt response, Mr. Mtshali took attendees on a journey down memory lane, highlighting the profound and respectful relationship he shares with BE CEO Mr. E. Nathi Dlamini, whom he credited as a mentor and a guiding force in his professional life.
His words were both reflective and forward-looking. He delved into the critical role of digital transformation in shaping the future of work and the telecommunications industry, sharing insights from his own journey at the helm of MTN Eswatini. He spoke of the challenges, the milestones, and the imperative for businesses to adapt swiftly to harness the benefits of the digital era.
With a patriot’s passion, Mr. Mtshali issued a powerful charge to Business Eswatini: to take the lead in driving the national digital transformation agenda. He urged the apex body to ensure the local business community is capacitated, aligned, and ready to ride the wave of digital developments, ensuring rapid industry growth and that no one is left behind.
Demonstrating his deep love for Eswatini, Mr. Mtshali assured the room that wherever his next chapter leads, as long as he remains in the Kingdom, he will always be a part of the Business Eswatini family, eager to contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
As Business Eswatini bids a grateful farewell to Wandile Mtshali, we do so with immense appreciation for his leadership and the stellar institution he has helped build. We look back with pride on a partnership fortified by shared goals and look forward with anticipation to welcoming the new CEO of MTN Eswatini into the Business Eswatini fold.
The bonsai tree now moves with Mr. Mtshali, a living emblem of a legacy of strength and growth. Meanwhile, the seeds of digital progress he has helped sow within our business community are ready to be nurtured to fruition. Thank you, Wandile, for your indelible mark. The BE family wishes you unparalleled success in your next chapter.
(
Courtesy Pic)
