BY SETHABILE MYENI
MBABANE – In commemoration of Global Entrepreneurship Week, SEDCO CEO has hailed all entrepreneurs for creating job opportunities for Emaswati.
SEDCO stands for Small Enterprises Development Company.
Khetsiwe Mhlanga, SEDCO Chief Executive Officer, says she recognises the work done by entrepreneurs in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
In fact, SEDCO has the mandate of assisting micro, small and medium-sized businesses across the country to seize opportunities to extend their markets, improve their performance, and embrace new technologies.
Mhlanga said the organization is happy to join the worldwide campaign in celebrating and empowering entrepreneurs because they are the heroes that are often under rated. “Entrepreneurs are the unsung heroes of our society, embodying bravery and resilience. They invest their financial resources, time and energy into their business ideas, showcasing their dedication and willingness to take substantial risks,” she said.
The CEO further appreciated Eswatini entrepreneurs for implementing their ideas which then created job opportunities for the citizens of Eswatini thus contributing to the growth of the economy.
“Entrepreneurs stimulate economic growth and create new job opportunities by providing new products, services and innovations to the market. We extend our gratitude to all entrepreneurs across the country for their contributions to our communities. SEDCO will continue to provide development interventions in support of national economic growth, employment creation and poverty reduction,” Mhlanga said.
Statistics reflects that in 2022 the youth unemployment rate in Eswatini remained at 49.77 percent with a number of factors contributing to the situation.
To help reduce unemployment rate, Mhlanga has urged the youth to venture into entrepreneurship, especially the digital sector.
“In light of the challenge of youth unemployment in Eswatini, I encourage the youth to leverage technology by venturing into digital entrepreneurship. As a digital entrepreneur, you have the advantage of running an online business, working from home, setting your own hours, and connecting with potential customers around the world.
I also call on all Emaswati to show support and appreciation for small businesses by buying locally. This will help small businesses grow and reach new heights,” she said.
