By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) is committed to reducing the use of paper in future events in a bidto align with the global sustainability agenda.
This was announced by (EIPA) Board Chairperson Theo Hlophe during the official opening of the 56th Eswatini International Trade Fair on Saturday.
“We will continue to reduce the use of paper in the next coming years as we align ourselves with the global sustainability agenda in hosting similar events,” Hlophe stated.
He highlighted the continued support from both private international partners and public exhibitors, which has enabled the introduction of the Grand Marquis, a new addition to the fair that allows for more exhibitors with an enhanced quality of service and better returns on investment.
The 56th Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) opened with grandeur which saw the presence of His Majesty King Mswati III and King Misuzulu of the Zulu Nation.
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The event, which also saw the participation of AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene, was hailed as a celebration of Eswatini’s trade and investment potential.
During the official opening, Hlophe emphasized the importance of sustainability and digital transformation in shaping the future of trade exhibitions in the kingdom.
In his address, Hlophe reflected on the significance of the EITF as a vital platform for Eswatini’s trade landscape.
“Your Majesty, it is that time of the year when the trade landscape of Eswatini is optimally filled with a hive of activity surrounding the premier trade and showcase of Eswatini,” he said.
He expressed the EIPA’s honour and pleasure in leading and organizing the trade fair, which has become a cornerstone event in the kingdom’s economic calendar.
When responding to His Majesty King Mswati III’s call for action to resolve current challenges during the official opening of Parliament, Hlophe emphasized the theme of this year’s trade fair, “Accelerating Business Growth through Digital Transformation.”
He highlighted the successful implementation of technology in the application process for the trade fair, noting that all processes were conducted online this year.
This digital shift, Hlophe explained, is a clear indication of Eswatini’s commitment to embracing technological advancements to drive business growth.
He also touched on the recreational aspect of the trade fair, noting that the event provided an opportunity for the people of Eswatini to showcase their talents across six sporting codes, including basketball, traditional dance, and soccer.
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He was particularly pleased to announce an increase in the prizes for sports, especially for Premier League soccer teams, which he described as integral parts of the trade and exhibition experience.
Concluding his remarks, Hlophe expressed his deep gratitude to His Majesty King Mswati III for gracing the event where he emphasized EIPA’s dedication to supporting the kingdom’s economic growth through innovative and sustainable initiatives.
“As I take my seat, Your Majesty, I am honoured on behalf of the Eswatini Investment Promotions Authority to have your Majesty gracing the 56th Eswatini International Trade Fair,” Hlophe concluded.
