BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
NGCULWINI– EmaSwati are beginning to protect their finances more effectively, as reported losses to Facata Scams show a noticeable, positive decline.
This shift signals that public awareness efforts and protective measures are gaining traction across the kingdom.
This information was delivered on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 by Swazi Mngometulu from the Eswatini Bankers Association (EBA) during the End of Year National Crime and Road Accident Prevention Campaign 2025 at the Ngculwini Sport Ground.
Mngometulu called upon Mafutseni Inkhundla to strengthen cooperation with the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) to effectively combat these scams, which continue to threaten Eswatini’s economy. She expressed the EBA’s gratitude for the REPS’s commitment to tracking down offenders.
Mngometulu provided a clear update on the financial impact. “Last year, Facata Scams resulted in losses of over E9 million for EmaSwati. Through dedicated efforts, particularly with the support of the NATCOM’s Office, this figure has been reduced to approximately E7 million,” she stated. While this is not a comprehensive victory, it is tangible evidence that the public is gradually becoming more vigilant and protective of their savings.
To aid in public protection, Mngometulu outlined a simple, effective defense strategy for citizens to use when approached by potential scammers. “If you receive an unsolicited call from someone asking about your finances, the course of action is clear: say, ‘Don’t talk to me, talk to my banker.’ Then, terminate the call and immediately report the incident to both the police and your financial institution,” she advised.
Mngometulu also highlighted the vital role of coordination, revealing that Eswatini banks have partnered with Swazi Mobile and MTN to proactively tackle the issue. “We provide information to the networks so they can identify these numbers and implement bans on their systems,” she explained.
For citizens across Eswatini, this reduction in losses is important. Every scam prevented means that money stays with families. The drop from E9 million to E7 million demonstrates the steady impact of joint efforts among banks, mobile networks, and law enforcement, fueled by increasing public education.
With sustained vigilance and education, Mngometulu expressed confidence that EmaSwati will continue to build resilience against financial fraud, securing both individual savings and the broader economic stability.
