Trade Fair, Independence mark Eswatini’s journey of growth
By Kwanele Dhladhla
Prime Minister Russell Dlamini delivered a powerful address on Saturday during the official closing of the Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF), a ceremony that coincided with the Kingdom’s 57th Independence Day celebrations.
The Prime Minister began his remarks by extending deep gratitude to His Majesty King Mswati III for his unwavering support and annual presence at the Trade Fair.
“On behalf of the Government, the Investment Promotion Authority and the entire nation, I would like to express our profound appreciation to you, Your Majesty, for consistently gracing the Trade Fair with your presence every year. Your visit to many stalls, though arduous, is a demonstration of your leadership and commitment to the vision of growth and prosperity for our country,” said Dlamini.
September 6, 2025, marked a double celebration—57 years since Eswatini regained independence from colonial rule, and 57 years since the inception of the Trade Fair. Dlamini reflected on the historical significance of the day, acknowledging the foundation laid by King Sobhuza II, who attained independence through peaceful means.
“As citizens, we pride ourselves on the progress in infrastructure development, the progress in human development, growth in the economy, and the peace and stability we enjoy in our country. We will continue to cherish and protect peace in the Kingdom,” he said.
The Prime Minister described the Trade Fair as a beacon of Eswatini’s resilience and economic ambition. From its humble beginnings in 1968 as an agricultural exhibition, the fair has transformed into a globally recognised platform showcasing innovation, entrepreneurship, and cross-border collaboration.
During his tour of the fair stands earlier in the week, Dlamini noted that the current premises were no longer adequate to accommodate the increasing interest from businesses, both local and international.
“It is therefore paramount for His Majesty’s Government to prioritise the expansion of the Trade Fair grounds. We foresee exponential growth in industries involving local and international companies in the near future, aligning with the goals of the Nkwe Programme of Action and the Grand Plan for National Transformation,” he stated.
This year’s theme, “Digital Transformation: Creating Business Networks,” was highlighted as a forward-looking declaration of Eswatini’s aspirations to leverage technology for trade and innovation.
Dlamini emphasized the government’s commitment to positioning the Kingdom as a hub for commerce while empowering small and medium-sized enterprises.
He further praised the introduction of the Green Zone at the fair, a space dedicated to renewable energy, environmental conservation, and green financing initiatives.
“It is encouraging to see our entrepreneurs, especially women and youth, actively engaging in solutions that protect our planet while creating jobs and economic opportunities,” Dlamini said.
In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister turned to his principal task of introducing the guest of honour, His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
Dlamini outlined President Mnangagwa’s illustrious political journey spanning over six decades, detailing his roles in Zimbabwe’s independence movement, cabinet positions, and leadership as both Vice President and Head of State.
“Your Majesty, please allow me to now humbly request His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, to take to the stage,” Dlamini concluded.
The closing ceremony was attended by dignitaries, government officials, international investors, and members of the public, marking yet another milestone in Eswatini’s journey of unity, innovation, and transformation.
