BY MBONO MDLULI
EZULWINI – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini expressed his belief that ongoing collaboration between the Government and the private sector could lead to achieving the country’s economic growth objectives.
He spoke on March 31, 2025 at the second Business-to-Government Dialogue held at Royal Villas in Ezulwini, where he highlighted the diversity of attendees and the theme of the event: “Collaborate. Innovate. Execute: Strengthening Partnerships for a Thriving Economy for All.”
This theme, according to him, aligns with the Government’s vision for inclusive economic growth as outlined in the Programme of Action for 2024/25 to 2028/29.The Prime Minister noted that it has been two years since the launch of the State-Business Relations (SBR) platform, acknowledging the significant efforts of both the Government and the private sector in establishing its operational details.
He thanked the International Trade Centre for its technical assistance and the European Union Delegation to Eswatini for their financial support, stating that their contributions have been vital for the programme’s success until its conclusion in 2026. He outlined that the Government Programme of Action focuses on key areas such as stimulating inclusive economic growth, enhancing infrastructure, improving human capital, and strengthening social protection.
Dlamini pointed out positive indicators from the latest Economic Bulletin, including a 2.4% growth in private sector credit and a decline in headline inflation from 4.0% to 3.6%. The Prime Minister announced plans for launching an Investor One Stop Shop under the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority, designed to simplify investment processes.
The premier invited the private sector to engage with EIPA regarding participation in the Japan EXPO 2025 in Osaka, highlighting it as a significant opportunity for showcasing Eswatini’s potential. He officially commissioned the National Competitiveness Council and the SBR Core Group, marking a new phase of structured public-private cooperation.
The Prime Minister described four Technical Working Groups focused on legal structure, competitiveness dynamics, mega projects, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs). He acknowledged the crucial role of SMMEs in driving the economy and indicated that each working group would work closely with the SBR Core Group to ensure alignment.
Dlamini also announced the establishment of a full-time secretariat to oversee coordination and resource management. He expressed gratitude for the financial commitment from Business Eswatini and confirmed matching funding from the Government to ensure sustainable success. Before concluding, he made three important calls to action, urging the private sector to participate in consultations on the Citizen Economic Empowerment Act Regulations and to re-engage in discussions regarding the Employment Bill.
He emphasised the importance of dialogue in resolving concerns and encouraged collaboration among all stakeholders. The Prime Minister concluded by stating that 2025 is a pivotal year for transformation and reiterated the potential of the SBR platform to reshape the economic landscape. He officially launched the National Competitiveness Council, the SBR Core Group, and the Technical Working Groups, inviting everyone to begin their efforts.
(Pics: Eswatini Government)
