By 
By Kwanele Dhladhla
In its drive to reduce unemployment and foster a private-sector-led economy, the Eswatini Government has in the last three months availed nearly 2,000 jobs and attracted investments worth over E30 billion, which will create over 40,000 jobs over the next 4-5 years.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, who reported that between April- June 2025, the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) facilitated the allocation of factory space to three companies—two in Matsapha and one in Matsanjeni—all previously occupied by textile firms.
He mentioned that these reallocated factory shells were expected to generate at least 1,000 jobs.
Additionally, he said three new companies were launched with EIPA’s support. These were: Infinity Knits in Hlathikhulu, which has already created nearly 300 jobs, and two firms in Ndzevane—SIGMA Clothing and Smart Wear Manufacturers, together employing over 1,000 people.
“These developments highlight the success of the factory shell decentralisation strategy aimed at bringing industrial opportunities closer to communities,” Khumalo explained.
The minister said that as part of its mandate to drive mega investments in implementing the government Programme of Action (PoA), large-scale projects had been identified for presentation at the inaugural investor conference, which was successfully hosted on the 14th-15th May 2025, at the Royal Villas Hotel in Ezulwini.
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He explained that this initiative aimed to showcase the country’s investment readiness to potential investors and stakeholders and create a pull effect on other investments.
Supported by the government and its partners, the event featured high-impact, pre-screened investments from over 10 countries.
Commitments from nine companies, expected to create nearly 40,000 jobs over the next four to five years.
“EIPA is now developing an action plan to facilitate the implementation of these transformative projects,” Khumalo assured.
The companies that made commitments to further investment in the kingdom, which would culminate in the job creation, include Illovo Sugar Eswatini, Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation (RES), African Alliance, Kellogg Tolaram, and Nsimbi Recycling, among others.
When appreciating the commitment to invest in Eswatini, Prime Minister Russell Dlamini said, “We deeply appreciate your support in unlocking capital for sustainable growth.
The pledges to expand operations in the Kingdom are a powerful show of confidence. Thank you for your long-standing partnership and continued investment in our people and economy.”
The PM went on to state, “We are committed to supporting investors, removing barriers, and fostering partnerships that deliver long-term value. If you are looking for your next opportunity, choose Eswatini.
Build with us. Grow with us. Succeed with us. Thank you. And we look forward to welcoming you – and your investment – into the Kingdom very soon.”
Khumalo went on to mention that over the last three months, seamless investor support remained central to EIPA’s mandate.
During the first quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year, he said they facilitated key processes for both new and existing investors across various sectors.
He said services included assistance with work permits, visas, VAT refunds, TIN registration, and trading licences.
Khumalo said over 20 companies were successfully supported, including FZ Capital, Savenda Electronics, Infinity Knits, Illovo, FTM Garments, Kellogg Tolaram, and Magomba Mining.
He noted that EIPA strengthened collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWAACA), Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS), and the Registrar of Companies to advance the implementation of the FZ Capital / iSwiss project, a strategic investment set to operate within the Sikhuphe Special Economic Zone.
“These partnerships reflect a coordinated national effort to fast-track high-impact investments and enhance the zone’s role as a hub for industrial growth,” he said.
The minister stated that the completion and launch of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) marked a significant milestone in the ministry’s efforts to improve the ease of doing business in Eswatini.
He explained that this centralised platform was designed to streamline investor-related services by bringing together key regulatory agencies under one roof, thereby reducing bureaucratic delays and improving service delivery.
“BOSS is expected to play a pivotal role in fast-tracking investment approvals, enhancing transparency, and fostering a more investor-friendly environment that supports both foreign and domestic investment growth,” Khumalo said.
To further lure investors, Khumalo highlighted that the ministry continued with the factory shell construction programme at various locations.
He highlighted the critical importance of factory shells in our pursuit of industrialisation, investment attraction, and job creation.
Khumalo stated that factory shells were a cornerstone of our industrial development efforts. They provide ready-to-use infrastructure that allows investors to begin operations without delay.
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This not only reduces the cost and time associated with setting up a business but also removes a significant barrier that often discourages potential investors, particularly in the manufacturing sector.
These facilities are a clear signal of the government’s commitment to supporting industry. By offering investors fully serviced spaces, we position Eswatini as a more competitive and investor-friendly destination,” he emphasised.
He said this was particularly crucial in a regional environment where countries were actively competing for the same investment opportunities. More importantly, he assured that factory shells translate into jobs.
“Each facility has the potential to employ hundreds, sometimes thousands of our people, from skilled technicians to general workers. This not only reduces unemployment but also helps families put food on the table and builds local capacity through skills transfer,” he said.
During the first quarter, he reported that the ministry received the keys for a newly completed factory shell at Ndzevane, marking another milestone in their industrial infrastructure rollout.
“We are also in the final stages of completing the Jonnson Workwear factory in Nhlangano, which is expected to boost both local production and employment.
In further advancing our industrialisation agenda, the ministry has commissioned the construction of three additional factory shells in Pigg’s Peak, Ngwenya, and Sigwe.
These developments are part of our broader strategy to decentralise industrial activity, attract investment across regions, and create meaningful job opportunities for our people,” he added.
