MANZINI – Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo has called on Emaswati to embrace cooperatives as a path to sustainable economic empowerment, while unveiling the theme for the 2025 International Day of Cooperatives during celebrations held in Manzini.
The theme, “Cooperatives: Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better World,” was described by the minister as a reflection of shared global ambitions, aligned with the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives and other major international frameworks.
Khumalo told guests that cooperatives are reshaping communities by creating access to credit, supporting farmers, promoting women’s economic participation, and opening opportunities for young people. He said the cooperative model has become a beacon in the face of rising inequality, economic instability and climate change.
Eswatini’s cooperative sector, according to Khumalo, now commands assets exceeding E3.5 billion, with over E2.6 billion in savings and E3 billion in loans made available through Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOS). He said these services are playing a direct role in improving livelihoods and promoting dignity across the country.
The minister also acknowledged the contributions of international partners such as Germany’s DGRV and Taiwan’s ICDF for their continued technical support in governance, digital transformation, and youth-focused cooperative development.
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