BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MANZINI– Eswatini Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth by providing over E10 million in funding to women-led small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) over the past five years.
The announcement was made by the Bank’s Managing Director, Dr Nozizwe Mulela, during the institution’s first Business Forum of the year at the George Hotel, on 3 March 2026.
Dr Mulela highlighted the Bank’s deliberate focus on supporting women and youth as key drivers of the country’s economic transformation. “Gender equity remains one of the Bank’s core values,” she said, “and this commitment informs our decision-making and underpins our mandate as a development-oriented financial institution.”
The funding is complemented by targeted initiatives that support women in STEM fields such as technology and manufacturing, sectors traditionally dominated by men. Beyond financial assistance, the Bank provides business advisory services designed to strengthen operational capacity, drive innovation, and expand the economic participation of women entrepreneurs.
Dr Mulela also encouraged young entrepreneurs to seize opportunities in the SMME sector, emphasizing that youth represent the future of Eswatini’s economy. “We are encouraged by the progress we have seen and look forward to seeing these figures grow significantly, alongside increased participation from young business owners,” she said.
Over the past decade, Eswatini Bank has disbursed over E570 million to SMMEs across various sectors, reflecting its confidence in the entrepreneurial spirit of emaSwati and its dedication to inclusive growth. Moving forward, the Bank plans to roll out innovative financial products, including flexible SME loans, green financing options, and enhanced digital platforms, all aimed at helping enterprises scale and compete in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
The forum also introduced Ms Phumzile Dlamini, the Bank’s newly appointed SMME Manager, who will oversee the SMME portfolio and ensure that women- and youth-led businesses continue to receive relevant, practical support.
Through these initiatives, Eswatini Bank continues to champion gender inclusion, youth empowerment, and sustainable entrepreneurship, positioning women-led businesses and young entrepreneurs at the heart of the country’s economic growth story.
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