BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE – A new chapter in Eswatini’s retail and hospitality sector unfolded on Friday, July 10, 2026, as KFC Eswatini officially opened its 15th branch at Woodlands, Mbabane, with a E4.5 million investment that has created 34 new employment opportunities.
The latest addition to the KFC Eswatini network, operated by Alliance Foods, brings a modern dining experience closer to customers in the Woodlands area through a state-of-the-art drive-thru facility designed to enhance convenience and accessibility.
The opening reflects Alliance Foods’ continued confidence in Eswatini’s business environment and its commitment to supporting economic growth through investment, job creation and expansion of local commercial services.
Since its soft rollout, the new outlet has already demonstrated strong market demand, recording a turnover of more than E400 000 within its first month of operations.
Speaking during the official opening, KFC Eswatini CEO Nigel England said the early performance of the branch was a reflection of the strong relationship between the brand and the communities it serves.
England expressed appreciation to the Woodlands community, stakeholders and project partners for supporting the establishment of the new outlet, saying Alliance Foods remains committed to contributing towards Eswatini’s economic development.
“This milestone reflects our continued confidence in Eswatini and our commitment to bringing quality service, creating jobs and contributing positively to the communities we operate in,” said England.
The opening was welcomed by government leaders, with Minister of Housing and Urban Development Apollo Maphalala highlighting the importance of developments that bring services closer to communities.
Maphalala said urban development trends were shifting towards creating more accessible neighbourhoods where residents could find essential services, retail facilities and recreational spaces within close proximity.
He described the KFC Woodlands development as an example of how strategic partnerships between government and the private sector can improve convenience and add value to communities.
Meanwhile, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo applauded the investment, saying it demonstrated the important role played by businesses in driving economic activity and creating opportunities for emaSwati.
Khumalo noted that the E4.5 million investment aligns with national aspirations of promoting private sector growth, strengthening the hospitality industry and expanding employment opportunities.
“This investment goes beyond the opening of a restaurant. It represents economic participation, job creation and a contribution towards growing Eswatini’s retail and hospitality sectors,” said Khumalo.
The official opening ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting and celebratory toast, marking the beginning of operations at the new branch. The occasion brought together government officials, business leaders, community representatives and stakeholders.
Adding a cultural touch to the celebration, renowned saxophonist Zwile Bhembe entertained guests with a captivating performance, creating a memorable atmosphere for the milestone event.
African Alliance Group Partner S’thofeni “Stofen” Ginindza highlighted the wider impact of KFC’s presence in Eswatini, noting that the brand continues to contribute significantly to employment creation.
Ginindza revealed that KFC currently employs approximately 600 people across Eswatini, reflecting the company’s growing footprint and contribution to livelihoods.
The opening of KFC Woodlands marks another significant step in the brand’s expansion journey, while reinforcing the role of private investment in supporting economic growth, creating jobs and bringing quality services closer to communities across Eswatini.
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