Manzini – FNB Eswatini has unveiled a package worth E430 000 to support the 2025 Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF), with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) set to benefit through free seminars, clinics, and business tools.
The announcement was made last week, with the bank confirming that it will host two major seminars on 5 September at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre in Manzini. The SME-focused seminar, titled “Thriving in the Digital Age: Help that works for Overcoming the SME Challenge”, will take place at the FNB Business Chamber, Pavilion 1. At the same time, an agribusiness seminar under the theme “Equipping Agribusinesses to Thrive in the Digital Age” will be held at the EITF Seminar Hall. Both events will be open to all SMEs across the country.
Explaining the motivation, FNB Executive Head of Commercial Banking, Chantell Littler, said the bank intends to tackle challenges that have hindered local entrepreneurs from growing. She noted that the seminars will provide practical strategies, while also connecting businesses to services such as trade finance, credit, and investment support.
Beyond the seminars, the bank has also scheduled daily business clinics throughout the fair, where entrepreneurs can consult one-on-one with FNB Relationship Managers. Business owners will be given free toolkits that include business plan templates, financial calculators, profit-and-loss sheets, cash flow projection tools, and guidance on accessing credit. Littler said the clinics are meant to equip businesses with practical solutions that ensure survival, growth, and resilience.
In partnership with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, FNB will further provide free exhibition space to selected finalists of the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (EYA) under the “EYA Square.” The initiative is intended to expose small businesses to larger markets.
Reflecting on the platform’s benefits, Dlalisile Matsebula, a handicraft entrepreneur from Manzini Market who showcased at the EYA Square in 2024, said it had opened long-term opportunities for her. She explained that the exposure attracted lasting customers and expanded her reach beyond her usual trading space.
The 2025 Eswatini International Trade Fair will take place from 29 August to 7 September at Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre.
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