Africa-Press – Eswatini. His Majesty King Mswati III has urged Emaswati to work hard and aspire to become billionaires, emphasising the importance of entrepreneurship in driving national prosperity.
Delivering a powerful message of ambition and determination, the King challenged the nation’s business community to build wealth that strengthens Eswatini’s economy and creates opportunities for all.
The King made this call during the Eswatini Entrepreneur of the Year (EYA) National Gala Dinner 2025, held at the Mavuso Exhibition and Trade Centre in Manzini on 7 November 2025. The event, a highlight on the national business calendar, brought together leading entrepreneurs, government officials, and development partners to celebrate excellence, innovation, and resilience in Eswatini’s private sector.
Reflecting on the growth of the awards since their inception, His Majesty expressed pride in how the initiative had evolved over the years. He noted that the EYA programme had not only recognised outstanding businesses but also inspired others to follow in their footsteps. “We were not this many when we started, and this ceremony continues to grow. We hope that next year we will have even more participants—well over 400,” he said, commending the organisers for their dedication.
His Majesty further applauded the success stories shared by past winners, many of whom have expanded their ventures and gained international recognition. “We are proud that they are now also recognised internationally and globally,” he remarked, highlighting how Eswatini’s entrepreneurs are beginning to make their mark on the world stage.
Encouraging resilience among those who did not win this year, the King reminded attendees that success is built on persistence and vision. He issued a heartfelt challenge to all Emaswati businesspeople to continue working hard and to build enterprises capable of creating local billionaires who would drive sustainable economic growth from within the Kingdom.
The EYA National Gala Dinner 2025 was not only a celebration of entrepreneurial excellence but also a showcase of Eswatini’s vibrant fashion and cultural creativity. The evening glittered with glamour as guests arrived in elegant attire—women in dazzling evening gowns adorned with sequins and beadwork, and men in finely tailored suits. The atmosphere was one of joy, sophistication, and national pride as attendees celebrated the spirit of innovation and enterprise.
A highlight of the evening was the crowning of Duncan Dlamini, Director of DJD Investments (Pty) Ltd t/a DJD Pork, as Entrepreneur of the Year 2025. Dlamini received his award from His Majesty King Mswati III and the OACPS Secretary-General, Moussa Saleh Batraki, and drove away with a brand-new bakkie worth over E600 000, sponsored by FNB Eswatini. The announcement was met with resounding applause and a spectacular display of fireworks, symbolising the triumph of hard work and dedication.
As the evening drew to a close, His Majesty extended heartfelt congratulations to all winners and participants, recognising their contribution to Eswatini’s economic development. He reaffirmed his belief in the nation’s potential, declaring that the future of Eswatini’s economy lies in the hands of its entrepreneurs.
His Majesty’s address served as both an inspiration and a challenge—urging Emaswati to dream bigger, act boldly, and build enterprises that will transform the Kingdom into a hub of wealth, innovation, and opportunity.
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