BY GWALISILE MHLABANE
SHISELWENI – Youth-owned businesses in the Shiselweni Region are creating employment and strengthening livelihoods, with some entrepreneurs who received support through the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund (YERF) now employing fellow young emaSwati.
The development emerged during a Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs field visit to five businesses owned by YERF beneficiaries in the region.
The visit was led by Minister Bongani Nzima, accompanied by the Principal Secretary and Members of the Ministry Portfolio Committees from both Houses of Parliament.
The first stop was at Mkhondvo, where young entrepreneur Nontobeko Lukhele runs a grocery business.
Lukhele expressed appreciation for the support received, highlighting its contribution to the growth of her business and livelihood.
The delegation’s second stop was at Nkwene, where Mgcineleni Dlamini is producing agricultural products through his enterprise.
Dlamini’s business reflects the participation of young people in agriculture, while contributing to economic activity within the community.
The five businesses visited showcased different ways young entrepreneurs are building enterprises and creating opportunities beyond themselves.
Some of the beneficiaries have expanded their operations and employed fellow young people, giving the businesses a wider impact on households and communities.
Nzima commended the entrepreneurs for their resilience, commitment and determination to turn their business ideas into sustainable enterprises.
“Remain focused, work diligently and continuously seek professional business advice and support to strengthen and grow your businesses,” Nzima said.
He said Government was encouraged by young emaSwati who were taking charge of their economic future and creating opportunities for others.
“It is encouraging to see young emaSwati taking charge of their economic future and creating opportunities for others,” he said.
Nzima urged the entrepreneurs to remain disciplined in managing their businesses and to seek professional advice as they expand their operations.
He said the growth of youth-owned businesses could play an important role in addressing unemployment while strengthening local economies.
The field visit also gave Government and parliamentary representatives an opportunity to engage directly with the beneficiaries and understand their experiences, achievements and challenges.
From retail to agricultural production, the businesses demonstrated the determination of young emaSwati to build sustainable livelihoods while contributing to their communities.
For the beneficiaries, business growth is translating into opportunities not only for themselves but also for other young people seeking employment.
The Ministry said it would continue encouraging young entrepreneurs to build resilient enterprises capable of creating lasting economic opportunities.
