By 
By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Tums George Hotel buzzed with excitement on Thursday as the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Mancoba Khumalo, honoured local companies at the 2024 Quality Awards.
This prestigious event served as a platform to celebrate organizations committed to maintaining high-quality standards in the production of goods and services in Eswatini.
Khumalo emphasized the significance of the Quality Awards, stating that they represent a milestone in the nation’s journey toward excellence, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
He highlighted the successful launch of the National Certification Scheme, “Ingelo,” as a testament to the government’s dedication to elevate local businesses to meet international standards.
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“It is both an honour and a privilege to recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements of local companies,” he expressed.
“The establishment of the National Certification Scheme is a monumental achievement, representing our steadfast commitment to ensuring that local businesses compete on the global stage.”
The Minister pointed out that quality is not merely a destination, but an ongoing journey that reflects the values and aspirations of organizations committed to excellence. Each awardee at the event exemplified this commitment through hard work, innovation, and unwavering determination.
The Quality Awards program aims to enhance vital export-oriented value chains and provide institutional support within Eswatini. It plays a pivotal role in promoting exports and investment by addressing trade barriers and ensuring quality compliance.
The outcomes of these efforts have already translated into improved livelihoods, increased employment opportunities, and heightened export competitiveness.
Reflecting on the changing global landscape, Khumalo noted the growing importance of quality in determining competitiveness and market access. “By adhering to quality standards, your organizations have made significant strides in reducing technical barriers to trade and unlocking new market opportunities,” he stated, reinforcing the notion that quality management systems are essential for efficient service delivery.
The event also focused on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with Khumalo urging businesses to integrate these principles into their operations. This alignment, he said, contributes not only to individual organizational success but also to broader global initiatives such as promoting responsible consumption and production.
A highlight of the awards ceremony was the recognition of exceptional companies that participated in the 2024 SADC Quality Awards, including MA Dlamini Consulting Engineers, Municipal Council of Manzini Laboratory, Eswatini Railway, Swazi Plastic Industries, and Nkonyeni Pre-Cast.
As the evening ended, the Minister encouraged all presents to view their collective efforts through the lens of collaboration. “Quality is not achieved by individuals or isolated teams alone,” he reminded attendees, urging a united front in the pursuit of excellence.
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In a rousing conclusion, Khumalo offered his heartfelt congratulations to all recognized organizations, stating, “Your success is a testament to the power of commitment, collaboration, and continuous improvement.”
The 2024 Quality Awards not only celebrated current achievements but also set the stage for future innovation and quality excellence in Eswatini, reinforcing the nation’s position as a beacon of quality on the global stage.
