BY THEMBA ZWANE
MPOLONJENI – The Ingelo Certification Scheme is directly advancing government’s priorities of industrialisation, enterprise development, job creation and inclusive economic growth by equipping Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the infrastructure and technical support needed to produce quality, market-ready products.
This was said by the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, during the official launch and handover of the Ingelo Certification Scheme production cottages at Motshane Inkhundla on Thursday, July 30.
The minister said the initiative formed part of government’s broader agenda to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of local enterprises while ensuring that MSMEs are able to access formal and competitive markets.
He said the Ingelo Certification Scheme was established to help businesses improve product quality, strengthen production processes and achieve certification standards that will allow them to compete effectively both locally and potentially beyond Eswatini’s borders.
“The Ingelo Certification Scheme directly supports Government’s priorities on industrialisation, supporting enterprise growth, creating employment opportunities and promoting inclusive economic development,” he said.
The minister explained that the newly constructed production cottages are more than just buildings, describing them as dedicated production spaces designed to enable entrepreneurs to manufacture products that meet quality and safety requirements. The facilities will help MSMEs improve hygiene standards, product consistency, traceability, packaging and quality management systems required by retailers and consumers.
He noted that certification is a continuous process that requires technical assistance, skills development, proper infrastructure and effective management systems. Through the programme, beneficiaries will receive support that will better position them to obtain the Ingelo certification mark and strengthen consumer confidence in locally produced goods.
The minister also highlighted that the production cottages will operate under a rotational model to ensure that more entrepreneurs benefit over time. MSMEs will occupy the facilities for a specified period before opportunities are extended to other qualifying businesses within the community.
“This approach is intended to broaden the programme’s reach and ensure that its benefits are shared equitably among aspiring entrepreneurs,” he said.
He challenged beneficiaries to use the facilities responsibly and maintain the required production standards, adding that the success of the programme will depend on their commitment to producing safe, high-quality and consistent products.
Khumalo further called on retailers and the local business community to support products emerging from the Ingelo Certification Scheme, saying increased market access for local products will contribute significantly to employment creation, improved livelihoods and economic development.
“Providing market opportunities for high-quality locally produced goods contributes to job creation, strengthens livelihoods, promotes innovation and drives economic development within our communities,” he said.
During the ceremony, the minister officially handed over the Mpolonjeni production cottage to Patience Delight, owned by Lungelo Dlamini, who produces oat biscuits. He wished the entrepreneur success in utilising the facility to expand the business.
The minister also handed over the second Ingelo certification to Lujilo Honey, owned by Vusi Nkambule, after the company successfully implemented food safety systems and met the required standards for certification. Its honey products were tested in accredited laboratories and found to be compliant and safe for human consumption.
He urged retailers to receive certified local products with confidence and encouraged more MSMEs to embrace quality standards as a pathway to business growth.
The minister concluded by thanking all stakeholders and partners involved in implementing the programme, saying the Ingelo Certification Scheme will serve as a catalyst for building stronger, more competitive local enterprises while contributing to Eswatini’s industrialisation and inclusive economic development agenda.
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