Africa-Press – Eswatini. When the ENPF introduced the CEO’s weekly Lidlelantfongeni Stakeholder Recognition Awards, the goal was to spotlight employers, members and tenants who go beyond statutory requirements to safeguard workers’ financial futures.
The fourth edition of the awards, held on 28 December 2025 at ENPF Headquarters in Manzini, honoured companies demonstrating exceptional compliance, including those that voluntarily pay 100% of statutory contributions on behalf of their employees.
Among the standout performers were eight enterprises recognised not only for meeting the rules, but for treating compliance as a moral compass, a strategic investment and a mark of national responsibility. Representatives from three of these organisations shared candid reflections, blending human experience, corporate insight and a deep sense of duty to Eswatini’s workforce.
Sifiso Dlamini – Africa Link Logistics (45 employees)
“Drivers give their lives to this industry — the least we can do is secure their future.”
For Africa Link Logistics, a company employing 45 long-distance truck drivers, ENPF compliance is not an administrative footnote; it is a declaration of gratitude to the people who spend their lives on the road.
Speaking at the function, Sifiso Dlamini said the company’s decision to contribute 100% of ENPF statutory contributions, though not required by law, was driven by a deep respect for the men behind the wheel. He noted that the average driver’s prime years fade by age 40, often without savings to cushion retirement.
“Long-distance drivers give everything. Their strength, their time, their family life. When those years are gone, what remains? The owners of Africa Link decided their future should not be left to chance.”
“The company’s decision to pay 100% contribution was driven by a deep respect for the men and women who keep the business moving. It is unfortunate that many in this sector reach the end of their careers with little or no retirement savings.”
Dlamini praised the CEO of Lidlelantfongeni Futhi Tembe and the ENPF team for making compliance clear and accessible, saying their support turns a tough sector into a humane one.
He added that many transport companies still need to put a lot of effort on retirement savings and insurance issues so that their staff is not neglected when the time to stop working comes and that their families are not left vulnerable.
“We will continue to set a benchmark. If our drivers dedicate their lives to growing the business, the least we can do is ensure they have something meaningful at the end.”
TemaSwati Dlamini – Alternative Energy (63 employees)
“SMEs can lead from the front, and compliance is the foundation of growth.”
Alternative Energy, an SME employing 63 staff in renewable solutions and rural electrification, views ENPF compliance as integral to nation-building.
After receiving the award, TemaSwati Dlamini said the recognition served as a powerful reminder that small companies can be just as influential as large corporations when it comes to setting national standards in corporate behaviour. She described the moment as deeply affirming, especially for an SME that employs 63 people across renewable energy and rural electrification projects.
“We may be small, but we want to set a big example,” she said. “Compliance is who we are and it tells our employees that their future matters, and it tells the country that SMEs can lead responsibly.”
Dlamini said the award goes beyond trophies and certificates; it signals trust and maturity in a sector that is often dismissed as too young or too stretched to implement strong governance systems. She added that the recognition validates the company’s belief that ethical practices should be embedded from day one.
“A lot of SMEs think compliance is something you do when you’re bigger or when you have more resources,” she explained. “But we’ve proven that responsible practices can start small, and grow with the business.”
She praised ENPF for making compliance seamless and accessible, noting how the Fund’s systems help young companies establish solid foundations.
“ENPF brings stability, structure and confidence,” she said. “It assures employees that even in a young company, their effort becomes long-term security. That motivates them — and it motivates us to do better every single year.”
Dlamini said the award also strengthens Alternative Energy’s credibility with partners and the communities it serves, especially as renewable energy becomes central to Eswatini’s development agenda.
“Compliance is not a burden. It’s an investment,” she added. “If you want your business to grow, to be respected, and to attract good people, start with ENPF. It’s one of the smartest decisions any SME can make.”
She emphasised that Alternative Energy will continue raising the bar, not just for internal governance but for what responsible small businesses can contribute to the country.
“We’re proud to show that SMEs can lead from the front,” she said. “This award is encouragement, but it’s also a challenge, a challenge to keep doing better for our employees and for Eswatini.”
Sikelela Qwabe – Umbane (Pty) Ltd (73 employees)
“Corporate governance starts with how you treat your people.”
Umbane, a longstanding sugarcane farming operation in Malkerns employing 73 workers, entered a new chapter in April 2024 when it became a direct employer after years under RES Corporation. For Board Member Sikelela Qwabe, the shift was more than administrative — it marked the beginning of a more transparent, accountable and worker-centred era for the company.
He said the ENPF recognition affirms Umbane’s renewed commitment to good governance and responsible stewardship, especially during a period of structural change.
“For us, compliance is not a box to tick. It is good stewardship — managing shareholder value responsibly while safeguarding the workers who create that value.”
Qwabe said the transition came with challenges, but ENPF’s guidance made the process smooth and confidence-building.
“The ENPF team walked with us, step by step. Their systems make it possible for new employers like us to comply confidently.”
He added that the award is more than a corporate accolade; it is a message to the workforce.
“This award tells our employees that they matter. We’re not just running a business — we’re protecting futures.”
Qwabe described the recognition as a springboard for responsible growth, reaffirming Umbane’s commitment to fairness and good governance.
“This is only the beginning. As we grow, we will continue to comply. Our workers deserve nothing less.”
He encouraged other companies undergoing transitions to embrace compliance early.
“If you want stability, trust and long-term success, start with compliance. It is not an expense — it’s an investment in your company’s future.”
Source: Eswatini Positive News – News Website
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