FNB makes home ownership possible for emaSwati

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By Thokozani Mazibuko
FNB Eswatini is set to shake-up the home ownership market in Eswatini with the
introduction of its enhanced Sicalo Home Loan which now caters for emaSwati earning
between E3 000 and E8 000 monthly.

This is an enhancement of the bank’s existing Umkhaya Home Loan. The bank unveiled
the product on Saturday, during the opening day of the 2025 Eswatini International
Trade Fair (EITF) at Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre and forms part of its year-long
30th birthday celebration. Through the facility, emaSwati earning between E3 000 and
E8 000 monthly can now borrow up to E90 000 to build on Swazi Nation Land.

According to FNB’s Home Loans Lead Paris Dlamini, the bank is committed to making
home building affordable for all emaSwati. “At FNB, we understand that building a home
is about more than bricks; it’s about dignity, stability, and creating something that lasts
for your family. For 30 years, FNB has been making banking firsts that matter. Now, A
First That Lasts is here for all emaSwati. Now, every liSwati can own a home through
FNB,” he said.

According to Dlamini, the bank requires that the loan applicant be permanently
employed and be primarily banking with FNB. “This doesn’t just cover your own home
but also building at your family home, be it your lilawu, intsanga, or indlu yakagogo.
Whatever it is, we want to help emaSwati achieve their home ownership dreams. For
more information, emaSwati can call us on our toll-free number 800 6100,” he added.

Qualifying for the loan is also made more accessible as customers do not need
expensive house plans and contractors. Instead, they can apply with a simple plan that
demonstrates the structure and materials required and use small-scale builders as long
as they are trained and certified.

Interviewed at the launch, Sifiso Maziya praised the bank for the product. “This is a
product that will be helpful for those of us who earn on the lower side. Sometimes
saving towards building can take a long time yet getting the loan means you can build
quickly. For me, what is important is having a home and this loan can help me get
there,” he said.

This coming Friday, the bank will be hosting two free seminars at the Trade Fair aimed
at supporting the country’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) navigate through
challenges and grow.

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