BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE– The Government, through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, has appointed new members to the Eswatini Standards Authority (ESWASA) Council to strengthen national standards and improve product quality.
The announcement was made by Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Hon. Manqoba Khumalo, during a briefing held at the Ministry’s boardroom on 21 January 2026.The ESWASA Board is led by Dumile Sibandze. The newly appointed Council members are Themba Luyanda Khumalo, representing the Ministry of Agriculture, and Mbongeni Simelane, representing the construction industry.
Themba Luyanda Khumalo holds a Master of Science in Animal Science and Management and is serving his first term on the Council. Mbongeni Simelane is a Master of Business Administration candidate, representing industry, and is also serving his first term.
Their expertise will strengthen ESWASA’s work in developing and implementing standards, improving product quality, and supporting consumer safety. These appointments will also help enhance competitiveness in key sectors such as agriculture and construction, while promoting trade and economic growth.
Minister Khumalo said ESWASA plays a key role in protecting consumers and supporting local industries. He explained that the authority ensures products meet national standards, are safe, and have accurate measurements.
He urged the new council members to be visible and active in their roles. He said their work should help people trust products in the market. He gave real-life examples to show why standards matter. He said a product that claims to be 1 litre must truly be 1 litre. He also warned against food that is sold as safe but makes people sick.
The minister also referred to the recent hail storms that damaged weak corrugated iron sheets. He said standards would ensure stronger building materials, including cement. This will help protect homes and improve safety.
ESWASA’s functions include standards development, quality assurance, conformity assessment, and metrology services. These services help local businesses improve quality, compete better, and trade both locally and internationally.
Minister Khumalo congratulated the new members and asked them to serve with integrity and dedication. He said their leadership will strengthen governance and support national development.
The appointments are expected to strengthen standards development and promote quality and competitiveness across key sectors of the economy.
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