BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – A new chapter in Eswatini’s economic journey was written today as Business Eswatini (BE) hosted the second edition of the Business-to-Government (B2G) Dialogue under the rallying theme Collaborate. Innovate. Execute. The event brought together government leaders, diplomats, captains of industry, and key development partners in a show of unity and ambition for national progress.
In his inspiring address, Business Eswatini President Mvuselelo Fakudze underscored the private sector’s vital role in nation-building, reaffirming BE’s unwavering commitment to economic transformation and inclusive growth. “We, together with our committed and productive workforce, mean business in everything we do,” said Fakudze, passionately highlighting how the private sector’s contribution to the national economy is fast approaching 90%.
Business Eswatini, the country’s apex business federation with a legacy spanning over 109 years, continues to position itself as a catalyst for sustainable development. Fakudze reflected on this legacy with pride, acknowledging the visionary leadership of his predecessors and the growing strength of BE’s membership.
One of the event’s most powerful moments was the celebration of grassroots innovation through BE’s flagship projects under the “Vukani BoMake” and “Vukani Youth” initiatives. These community-driven cottage industries, now active in several Tinkhundla, are creating hundreds of jobs while empowering women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
“Our cottage factories have become a beehive of economic activity,” Fakudze stated, attributing their success to the unwavering commitment of BE leaders like Tokky Hou and the passion of local entrepreneurs.
As part of BE’s drive for inclusive and sustainable economic growth, the organization relaunched the SBR (Structured Business Response) concept, a platform designed to deepen collaboration with government and social partners. Fakudze called for a conducive policy environment to turn ambitious projects into reality, and he encouraged all stakeholders to resolve any outstanding issues ahead of the upcoming ILO conference, showing confidence in Eswatini’s ability to present a united front.
“This is more than business,” he concluded. “It’s about investing in the very fabric of our society.”
Business Eswatini’s message is clear: by working hand in hand with government and communities, the Kingdom of Eswatini can unleash the full potential of its people and economy. The B2G Dialogue 2025 was not just a meeting—it was a movement.
Eswatini is ready. The future is now.
(Pic: Eswatini Government)