By Noncedo Shabangu (Intern)
MBABANE – A wave of pride swept through Business Eswatini as Her Royal Highness Princess Sakhizwe stood before an eager audience, urging Emaswati to embrace the beauty, creativity, and power of local craftsmanship. The occasion was the launch of the 2025 Made in Eswatini Consumer Choice Awards – a celebration of the nation’s talent and innovation.
In a heartfelt speech, Princess Sakhizwe introduced The Style Manifesto, a call to action for citizens to express their identity by wearing clothes inspired by Eswatini’s natural elegance—think browns, greens, and tans, especially during the chilly winter season. “As the temperatures drop, warmth becomes the new luxury,” she declared. “Let us wear fashion that tells our story and reflects who we are.”
Championing local designers, the Princess emphasized that supporting Swazi fashion is not just about looking good—it’s about investing in sustainable, slow fashion that preserves Eswatini’s culture and identity. She highlighted how every locally crafted garment represents a step towards a self-sustaining, empowered nation.
Princess Sakhizwe also made a powerful appeal to the private sector, urging companies and individuals alike to support young entrepreneurs and small businesses. “By investing in our own, we build a future that reflects Eswatini’s strength and potential,” she said.
As anticipation builds for the main awards ceremony on 25 July at Brackenhill Lodge, the Princess encouraged everyone to attend in proudly Swazi-made outfits, ready to honour the best of Eswatini’s creative industry.
Her parting words echoed with conviction and pride: “Choose local. Wear local. Celebrate local.” The message was clear—Eswatini’s future is bright, bold, and beautifully homegrown.
