Africa-Press – Eswatini. The heartbeat of Eswatini’s entrepreneurial scene pulsed with fresh energy this morning as the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (EYA) were officially unveiled at a vibrant launch held at Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini.
A generous E1.7 million sponsorship by First National Bank (FNB) Eswatini and its Foundation has not only ignited hope in the hearts of small and medium business owners, but also set the tone for what is expected to be the most impactful edition in the 19-year history of the awards.
FNB Eswatini Chief Executive Officer Thokozani ‘TK’ Dlamini, delivering a compelling keynote, said the bank’s contribution would cover the full prize pool across all regions and the national stage.
“Our sponsorship package includes the grand prize for the national winner, as well as prize monies for all other winners at both national and regional stages,” Dlamini told an audience packed with government officials, CEOs, and aspiring business moguls.
He revealed that seven flagship categories would be funded under the deal, including Youth-Owned, Women-Owned, Most Innovative, Techno-Savvy, Green Business, Agribusiness, and the Overall Regional Winner.
“I therefore invite all small and medium entrepreneurs in Eswatini to submit their entries for EYA 2025,” he said, extending the bank’s hand to the country’s trailblazers, dreamers, and doers.
The Small Enterprises Development Company (SEDCO) CEO, whose passion for homegrown entrepreneurship rang through every word, said the EYA had outgrown the confines of a mere contest.
“This initiative is not just about trophies or monetary rewards,” he said. “It is a movement that lifts business standards, forges new networks between emerging entrepreneurs and industry giants, and shines a spotlight on the innovations that are shaping the country’s economic destiny.”
He said over 500 entrepreneurs are recognised annually from all four corners of the Kingdom, giving them a springboard to connect with top-tier investors and influential policymakers.
“The presence of His Majesty King Mswati III at the gala is proof that this platform carries the full weight of national importance,” the CEO stated proudly.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, noting that the Ministry’s leadership had played a pivotal role in growing the EYA into a beacon of hope for budding businesspeople.
“Honourable Minister, your Ministry’s unwavering support has allowed us to scale new heights and empower entrepreneurs to amplify their contribution to economic growth,” he said.
He didn’t miss the chance to call on corporate giants to step up and join the mission.
“This is not simply about putting your logo on a banner,” he said. “It is an opportunity to align your brand with national development, to engage directly with Eswatini’s most dynamic business minds, and to earn recognition at the highest level for your contribution to building our economy.”
The 2025 edition also brings with it a fresh wave of digital convenience. Entry forms can now be accessed and submitted online via SEDCO and EYA social media platforms, with mobile-friendly formats tailored for smartphones. Hard copies will still be available at all SEDCO regional offices, and nationwide roadshows will be rolled out to guide entrepreneurs through the process.
In closing, the SEDCO CEO had a message that echoed with confidence and conviction.“To all entrepreneurs, dare to enter and share your brilliance with the nation. To all potential partners, dare to invest in the future of Eswatini. The stage is set and this year’s awards promise to light a fire of transformation across our economy.”
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