Mbabane – FNB Eswatini chief executive Thokozani TK Dlamini and entrepreneur of the year award winner Duncan Dlamini appeared on the Kusile Breakfast Show on Eswatini TV on Thursday 13 November 2025, where they discussed the bank’s role in nurturing small business growth and the impact of the awards on emerging enterprises.
The programme explored why FNB continues to invest in the entrepreneur of the year awards and how the partnership is shaping the country’s business landscape. Dlamini told viewers the bank sees itself as a corporate citizen that must contribute to the sustainability of local enterprises. He said FNB had supported the awards for three years because the institution believes that small businesses are a key driver of growth in Eswatini.
Duncan Dlamini of DJD Investments, who won the 2025 grand prize, explained how FNB has supported his business beyond the awards. He cited assistance during a past tax challenge and soft loans issued through the Manzini Lifestyle Centre branch, which helped the company stabilise operations. He said the bank also enabled the purchase of a delivery truck and assisted with waste management equipment acquired through a UN grant. According to him, this partnership has strengthened every arm of his business.
He said receiving the Toyota Hilux attached to the award has boosted operations by easing pressure on the single vehicle the company previously relied on. He explained that the extra car now allows the business to carry out deliveries, inspections and daily operations more efficiently.
Dlamini spoke about FNB’s shared prosperity pillar, which he said guides the bank’s contribution to national development. The bank has divided the strategy into four focus areas including financial inclusion, financial wellness, climate change and economic transformation. He explained that the bank uses its assets to support communities, broaden access to financial services, promote responsible money management and participate in projects that contribute to environmental sustainability.
FNB’s investment in collaboration was another theme of the interview. The CEO expressed appreciation for partners who support the awards including His Majesty’s Government, the Ministry of Commerce Industry and Trade, SECO and other stakeholders. He said discussions over the past year led to the introduction of regional awards which doubled participation numbers and widened opportunities for small businesses across the country.
The show also touched on the four regional winners who received cash prizes courtesy of FNB. Dlamini said the regional approach has allowed entrepreneurs in all corners of Eswatini to benefit from the programme. He noted the excitement among businesses that participated and said the model gives small enterprises confidence that support structures exist for their growth.
Duncan Dlamini said increased visibility from winning the national title is opening doors for new partnerships and trust from the public. He added that the recognition is also positive for the pig industry, where producers still lack an abattoir that meets international standards. He said securing the needed facility would unlock export opportunities and bring foreign currency into the country.
He said DJD Investments also plans to secure an abattoir to support small farmers nationwide, especially after recent discussions with the FMT where industry gaps were flagged as a key challenge. He said the company aims to work with pig farmers so they can benefit from improved slaughter facilities.
The interview also revisited his business journey. He reflected on the turning point that came during an incubation programme at the Royal Science and Technology Park. He explained that the business model canvas course helped him restructure the enterprise after a period when lack of equipment threatened operations. After converting his vehicle into a refrigerated unit, the business regained momentum and secured retailer partnerships.
As the conversation closed, the FNB CEO said the bank will roll out more initiatives linked to shared prosperity, with upcoming plans focusing on sectors such as women owned enterprises. Duncan Dlamini thanked FNB, SECO and other sponsors for supporting entrepreneurs and said the award serves as a major milestone for him and his industry.
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