BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
NDZEVANE – Eswatini’s manufacturing industry has taken a major step towards greener production after Sigma Clothing unveiled its green-certified factory in Ndzevane, creating new opportunities to attract investment and expand the country’s trade links.
The development was highlighted during Sigma Clothing’s Green Event on September 14, 2026, which brought together government officials, the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), Sigma Clothing and executives from PEP Group.
The event focused on how environmentally friendly manufacturing can help Eswatini produce competitively, attract new business and connect local manufacturers with larger regional markets.
Representing the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Hon. Dr Tambo Gina described the factory as an important achievement for the country’s manufacturing sector.
“The establishment of the first green-certified factory in Eswatini positions our nation at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing in the region,” said Gina.
“This initiative signals to the world that Eswatini is ready to compete globally while safeguarding the environment for future generations.”
The green certification means the factory has met recognised requirements for environmentally responsible operations. This gives Sigma Clothing an opportunity to respond to growing demand from markets and retailers that are increasingly concerned about how products are made.
For Eswatini, the development also demonstrates how investment in modern production can support both economic growth and environmental responsibility.
PEP Group Head of Buying Viola Dube said the retailer, which was established in 1965 and now has more than 2 700 stores across Southern Africa, remained committed to making quality clothing affordable.
“Since our founding in 1965, PEP has expanded to over 2 700 stores across Southern Africa, with a commitment to making the unaffordable affordable,” said Dube.
She said PEP was interested in building long-term relationships that could support more environmentally friendly clothing production.
“We are excited to explore long-term partnerships that will help us turn ‘just fashion, no fumes’ into a reality,” she said.
EIPA Chief Executive Officer Sibani Mngomezulu congratulated Sigma Clothing on its achievement and acknowledged the company’s collaboration with EIPA.
He also commended Sigma Green for receiving the Speed to Market Excellence Award from PEP Group, saying the recognition demonstrated the ability of Eswatini manufacturers to meet the expectations of major regional retailers.
Mngomezulu said developments such as Sigma Green were important in unlocking opportunities for sustainable trade and strengthening Eswatini’s attractiveness as an investment destination.
Sigma Green representative Ziyaad Paruk said the company would continue investing in technology and developing its workforce.
“We are committed to investing in specialised machinery and technology to expand our capabilities while educating and upskilling our team members,” said Paruk.
The investment in machinery and technology is expected to strengthen the factory’s ability to produce clothing efficiently while improving the skills of its employees.
The involvement of PEP executives also points to the potential for stronger business links between Eswatini manufacturers and large retailers operating across the region.
Such relationships can give local manufacturers access to bigger markets while encouraging them to improve production standards, technology and product quality.
The Sigma Green development therefore represents more than the opening of a modern factory. It is an example of how Eswatini can use sustainable manufacturing to attract investment, strengthen local industry and create opportunities to participate in regional supply chains.
As the country continues seeking new investment and export opportunities, the partnership involving EIPA, Sigma Clothing and PEP highlights the growing importance of producing goods that are both competitive and environmentally responsible.
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