Mbabane – Authorities have warned entrepreneurs and farmers to be cautious after a fake social media post promising government grant funding began circulating online.
The post, claiming to be from the Ministry of Finance, offered financial support for businesses and agricultural projects, including funding for equipment, seeds, fertilizers, and operational costs. It encouraged individuals, groups, cooperatives, SACCOs, and companies nationwide to apply through a link that leads to a Google Docs page. At least two people reportedly responded, believing the grant was legitimate.
Investigation revealed that the Facebook page behind the post had only three followers at the time and is not an official government account. Users who clicked the link risked exposing sensitive personal information. One commenter, Dladla Sphiwosami, wrote: “Thank you, I pray that God hear my prayers. Just submitted. Thank you government for the opportunity. Let organic farming shine.” Another, Ngci Mhayise, asked: “What it takes to get help.”
The Eswatini Communications Commission has intensified public awareness campaigns against cybercrime, locally referred to as “facata.” This term describes organised scams where fraudsters impersonate trusted officials, create fake urgency, and manipulate victims into revealing bank details, PINs, or one-time passwords. While mobile money scams remain common, “facata” also includes fake investment schemes and online exploitation targeting minors.
Authorities urge the public to verify government announcements and avoid responding to unsolicited messages or links promising financial rewards.
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