Ezulwini – Prime Minister (PM) Russell Dlamini launched the Eswatini inaugural Investment Conference at Ezulwini on Wednesday night with the strong message that the country was on “exponential and inclusive growth” drive.
The two day event held at the Sharma House brought together international and local investors, politicians and experts in various fields into one room, giving the government the chance to sell the idea why the country was investment destination of choice.
The PM said that the government believes in attaining 12 per cent economic growth per annum.
He spoke of being intentional if the country is to get there before he made the announcemenet of a E250 billion programme of action.
The plan is meant to unlock the country’s wealth and transform lives, he said.
This is the five-year economic programme meant of a business ready Eswatini.
“The Programme of Action is underpinned by the theme ‘Igniting Wealth and Well-being for the Nation. It reflects our deliberate choice to take bold, uncharted steps toward meaningful transformation,” Dlamini said.
The government plan encompasses a Sovereign Wealth Fund as well as policy reforms in key sectors including infrastructure development, digital connectivity, and investments in health, education, and sustainable industries.
The PM said as part of the plan to reach the double digit growth target, His Majesty King Mswati III recently launched a E5 billion Strategic Oil Reserve to ensure energy security.
Earlier on the day, the Prime Minister launched the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) aimed for investor engagement activities.
With sound policies and unveiling projects, the government acts as an enabler, while the private sector leads this growth, he said.
All these should end with jobs created, he said, adding that upcoming projects in manufacturing, energy, agriculture, and agro-processing, are poised to create jobs.
The investment conference is part of the AfCFTA National Strategy activities. There are also activities of establishing a National Transformation Committee, a Think Tank to identify emerging sectors, reduce risks, and turning Eswatini into a regional manufacturing hub, among others.
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