BY NELILE NXUMALO (INTERN)
MBABANE– The Eswatini National Youth Council has officially launched its Innovation Hub (iHUB) in Mbabane this week, a facility aimed at equipping young people with skills in innovation, entrepreneurship and digital technology. The launch, led by the Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima ,brings together government and development stakeholders seeking to address youth unemployment and enterprise growth in Eswatini.
The iHUB is designed to provide a collaborative space where young emaSwati can develop business ideas, access mentorship and build enterprises. According to information shared at the event, the initiative responds to growing demand for practical skills and innovation-driven opportunities in an increasingly digital economy. Officials said the hub will also support networking and linkages between youth and industry players.
As part of the launch proceedings, ENYC formalised a partnership with the Small Enterprises Development Company through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement is expected to strengthen support for youth entrepreneurship by improving access to business development services, training and enterprise support programmes.
Stakeholders at the event noted that the partnership could enhance the sustainability of youth-led businesses by providing structured guidance and technical support. The collaboration is also expected to contribute to capacity building, enabling young entrepreneurs to navigate challenges associated with starting and growing businesses.
While the initiative has been welcomed as a positive step, its long-term impact will depend on sustained implementation, resource allocation and measurable outcomes. Observers note that continued monitoring will be key to ensuring the hub delivers meaningful opportunities for young people.
The launch of the iHUB signals a broader effort to position youth at the centre of economic development, with a focus on innovation and skills development as critical drivers of growth.
#YouthEmpowerment #Innovation #DigitalSkills #YouthDevelopment #InnovationHub #YouthEmployment
(Courtesy Pic)
