EswatiniBank and the Small Enterprise Development Company (SEDCO) have signed a strategic partnership designed to bolster the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country. The signing ceremony, held at EswatiniBank’s headquarters, showcased a shared commitment to providing local entrepreneurs with the financial support and business development services they need to thrive.

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A Unified Approach to Entrepreneurship
EswatiniBank Managing Director, Nozizwe Mulela, and SEDCO Chief Executive Director, Khetsiwe Mhlanga, led the official signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU). Under this collaboration, EswatiniBank will extend financial solutions tailored to MSMEs, while SEDCO will offer training, mentorship, and other capacity-building programs.

“This partnership brings together two organizations dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship,” Mulela said. “By aligning our resources, we aim to bridge the gap between aspiring business owners and the tools they need to succeed.”

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Holistic Support for Local Businesses
SEDCO has long been recognized for empowering small businesses through workshops, mentorship programs, and market linkage initiatives. With EswatiniBank’s financial expertise and capital access, the alliance promises to deliver a comprehensive support system for local enterprises, from start-ups to established ventures.

“MSMEs are the backbone of Eswatini’s economy,” noted Mhlanga. “Working alongside EswatiniBank allows us to scale up our impact, ensuring that more entrepreneurs receive not just funding, but also the guidance and skill development required for sustainable growth.”

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Commitment to Economic Development
During the event, EswatiniBank Executive Manager for Business Banking, De Jesus Sargo, underscored the importance of MSMEs in creating jobs and driving innovation. He emphasized that the bank’s goal is to streamline access to credit, reduce barriers to entry, and help enterprises formalize their operations.

“We are committed to supporting local businesses in every phase of their development,” Sargo said. “Our collaboration with SEDCO means we can address the unique needs of MSMEs more effectively and contribute to the overall economic development of Eswatini.”

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Looking Ahead
Both EswatiniBank and SEDCO plan to roll out joint outreach initiatives in the coming months, targeting budding entrepreneurs and existing small business owners across different sectors. This includes financial literacy sessions, networking events, and advisory services tailored to the evolving demands of the local market.

As Eswatini continues to diversify its economy, the partnership between EswatiniBank and SEDCO stands out as a significant milestone. By pooling resources and expertise, the two institutions are well-positioned to nurture a vibrant ecosystem where MSMEs can thrive—ultimately fueling job creation and long-term economic stability.