By Delisa Thwala
“The EITF has become Eswatini’s premium business networking event, with over 250 exhibitors and vendors showcasing their goods and services for 10 days.
This year, we anticipate welcoming over 500,000 visitors, injecting millions into our economy through direct and indirect economic activity.”
The above sentiments were articulated by Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo during the launch of the 56th edition of the Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) on June 26, 2024, held at Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre in Manzini.
Khumalo said this prestigious event, which first showcased business and agriculture to the public back in 1968, has grown exponentially over the years.
“These numbers demonstrate the immense impact that the EITF has on our nation’s economy and the potential it holds for our businesses,” he said expanding on his previous statement.
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In line with the ever-evolving digital landscape, the EITF has embraced the digital revolution. The launch of the EITF App has allowed exhibitors to apply and make payments seamlessly, eliminating the need for paper applications.
The Minister said this move towards sustainability and efficiency not only benefits exhibitors but also showcases the changes that the business environment will experience due to the advancements brought about by the 4th Industrial Revolution.
“Under the theme ‘Accelerating (Nkwe) Business Growth through Digital Transformation’ The EITF 2024 places a strong emphasis on how digitization and digitalization can assist businesses in creating efficiencies and enhancing sustainable practices,” he said.
He further said this theme aligns with their e-government initiatives, which have simplified the process of applying for permits and making payments through online platforms such as Momopay.
“Additionally, our recent partnership with a Taiwanese counterpart to develop BuyEswatini.com, our e-commerce platform, further emphasizes our commitment to digital transformation and its role in driving business growth in Eswatini,” said the Minister.
His sentiments were echoed by Manzini Mayor Goodwill Dlamini who said digitization not only propels local businesses forward but also opens doors to intra-African trade, allowing them to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
“By embracing digital technologies, we can leverage trade agreements, promote sustainable business operations, and achieve our national goals of inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” he said.
Worth mentioning is that during the launch, a tagline for EITF 2024 was unveiled as CONNECT | CREATE | GROW.
This tagline captures the value that the event holds for all stakeholders.
Minister Khumalo said EITF remains Eswatini’s premier multi-sectoral exhibition, connecting domestic and international business with suppliers and buyers.
He said it creates a dynamic platform that fosters the exchange of creative and innovative ideas and products, allowing businesses to grow and thrive.
“By leveraging trade agreements and technology, we can achieve inclusive and sustainable business growth while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As we look forward to the EITF 2024” he said.
Minister Khumalo further invited everyone to mark their calendars for August 30, to September 8, 2024, as a build-up to the event.
They will have two branded buses traveling around the country, spreading the message of the EITF.
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These buses will also be used to ferry visitors from around the country, ensuring that everyone could attend this remarkable event.
In closing, he urged those who have not yet applied to exhibit at the EITF to do so immediately. Partnerships and sponsorships are integral to the success of this event.
“We welcome offers from those with innovative concepts. I am pleased to announce that we have already received support from organizations offering free Wi-Fi and sponsoring the popular Win-A-Car competition. Eswatini is open for business, and the EITF is a testament to our commitment to economic growth and development,” said Khumalo.
OVER E700 000 SPONSORSHIPS FOR EITF
Keeping true to commitment and a mandate to enhance businesses in Eswatini several sponsors have come forward with lucrative sponsorships.
First to break the ice was First National Bank (FNB) represented by Chief Mark
eting Officer Zethu Dlamini. The bank first sponsored the event with a hefty E300 000 which will go towards the ‘winning a car’ competition.
There will also be E 200 000 from the bank for the business seminar which tallies the sponsorship to E480 000.
Internet provider Jenny also ordered free Wi-Fi for the 12 days of the EITF, according to the company this will set them back to E250 000. This amount of money includes the internet connection and installation.
Meanwhile, potential exhibitors and vendors can access the application via two methods: by downloading the EITF Digital Platform from the Google Play Store or by visiting https://bit.ly/eitfweb on their browser.
The latter option ensures accessibility for non-Android users or those unable to download the app onto their devices.
Once downloaded, the EITF App enables users to register, sign in, select an exhibition size, choose a hall, obtain a quotation, and make payments for their desired space.
ALSO READ: 2024 EITF goes digital as applications now open via innovative app
The system generates quotations and invoices automatically, facilitating financial record-keeping for applicants. Payment options available on the platform include Momo, VISA, and MasterCard.
In a bid to enhance operational efficiency and offer added convenience, the Trade Fair will not accept paper-based applications this year.
All applications need to be made and completed on the App to be received and valid. We understand that it is the first time that exhibitors and vendors will be using our application process.
To get assistance exhibitors and vendors can contact us via WhatsApp only, on the following numbers: (+268) 7950 0050 and (+268) 7979 4849 from 8 am to 5 pm
A basic guide on using the App is available on social media platforms, while additional information can be found on the Eswatini International Trade Fair Facebook and Instagram pages.
