The Ezulwini Palazzo and International Convention Centre (ICC) has created employment, skills development and business opportunities for Emaswati in its first six months of operation, with Palazzo Hospitality Services saying jobs and local empowerment will define its long-term vision.
This was said by Saif Darcoish Mustafa Yacoub, speaking on behalf of the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Palazzo Hospitality Services, during a milestone celebration for the facility held in Ezulwini.
Yacoub said the project was never intended to be just a luxury hotel and convention centre, but a platform for national development through employment and enterprise.
“When we began this project, our vision was much bigger. We wanted to create a destination that would attract international visitors, global organisations, prestigious conferences, and world-class events to the beautiful Kingdom of Eswatini,” he said. 
He said that vision is now becoming a reality and is already translating into opportunities for locals.
Yacoub said in just six months, the centre has hosted major events and those events he said each has generated direct and indirect work for emaSwati across hospitality, technical services, transport, security and supply chains.
He said behind the successful hosting is a growing workforce of emaSwati employed as chefs, waiters, housekeeping staff, front office, technicians, event coordinators and managers, supported by training to meet international hospitality standards.
Yacoub thanked the Palazzo Hospitality team for their dedication, professionalism and hard work, saying they have shown what is possible when ambition is matched with commitment and teamwork.
He said beyond direct employment, the ICC is creating opportunities for local businesses through procurement, supply of fresh produce, maintenance services, entertainment and cultural services. He said every international conference brings demand for local goods and services, which keeps spending within the economy.
Yacoub said the company’s ambition goes beyond conferences to a year-round destination that will sustain jobs throughout the year.
“We want Ezulwini Palazzo and the ICC to become a vibrant destination for luxury hospitality, entertainment, culture, fine dining and unforgettable experiences throughout the year,” he said.
He said this diversification is critical to ensure jobs are not seasonal but permanent, with continuous training to develop the skills and talents of the people of Eswatini.
“We will do that by attracting international investment and tourism, supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities and developing the skills and talents of the people of Eswatini,” he said.
“Because we believe that the true success of this project will not only be measured by the events we host, but by the opportunities we create for this country and its people,” he said.
Yacoub said delivering this vision requires strong partnerships with the Government of Eswatini, relevant ministries, business partners and local communities. He reaffirmed commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to make the destination a success.
He expressed sincere appreciation to His Majesty King Mswati III, the Government and all supporters, and welcomed Their Excellencies, Honourable Ministers and distinguished guests to the celebration.
He said Palazzo Hospitality is building more than a hotel; it is building a destination that will become a source of pride for Eswatini and a recognised landmark for international hospitality and events across Africa.
