Last week Wednesday, 16 September, the African Manufacturing Foundation Board met for the first time since formation in May. The meeting was in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The powerful organization which is endorsed by big players in the corporate world and personalities, comprises of ex-Head of States, Ministers, Academics and top business executives.
It also boasts personalities with deep seated industry knowledge. In its inaugural meeting it was able to set strategic direction of the Board
The organization’s mission is to unite, promote, develop and market indigenous products from a pan African perspective.
It reflected on how Africa cannot manufacture and process its products but has a dependency on the western powers thus its formation will be able to ensure and enhance African manufacturing capacity
The Board consists of great minds that include the former President of Mauritius-Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim-who chairs the Board and former AU Chair and South African ex Minister of more than 20 years Dr. Nkosazana Zuma-who were both present in the meeting.
Former Member of Parliament of Manzini North Macford Sibandze also form part of the Board and was appointed Head of Governance and will also lead Communications and Marketing in the organization
Initially the Board was supposed to meet in August where Africa’s leading Industrialist Aliko Dangote had agreed to be Guest Speaker unfortunately the March and March led to the postponement of the meeting.
However, vision bearer and CEO of the Board, Lebo Radebe assured the Board that they are still in contact with Dangote and they are working around the clock to have him meet the Board. 
Radebe also remarked that he has a list of potential candidates and companies that will be lured to the organization for strategic partnership
The AMF, as it affectionately referred to marks an important milestone to the indigenous people of Africa as it will become the focal point for Africa’s product development. It will make presence in African bodies such as SADC, PAP and AU to name a few.
For Eswatini Sibandze said that he has made research on how the country can reap from it. “I will meet with different stakeholders in the manufacturing industry and the relevant ministry. I seek guidance on how to collaborate. I like the idea of “Buy Swati.”
The AMF has opened up for members to join as individuals, companies, associations, corporations, etc. Sibandze also stressed that joining AMF has tremendous benefits for members.
For more information Sibandze said people are free to contact him on 76074062.
