Matsapha- The Minister for Housing amd Urban Development Honourable Apollo Maphalala has praised
Eric Slabbert Agencies for sharing business ownership with its employees, describing the model as an
example of inclusive economic growth as the recycling company celebrated its 20th anniversary on
Thursday.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade during the company’s anniversary
celebrations, Minister of Housing and Urban Development Apollo Maphalala singled out the company’s
employee share ownership structure as one of its most remarkable achievements.
Maphalala noted that while the company employs 110 emaSwati, what stood out was that 20 percent of
its shareholding is owned by employees.
“It is an incredible philosophy to say, out of the investments that we are making, let’s create a piece of
the cake for capable employees to participate in that space,” he said.
The minister said many people are employed throughout their lives without ever gaining an
understanding of how businesses generate wealth or having an opportunity to participate in ownership
structures.
He commended Eric Slabbert Agencies for creating a platform that allows employees to benefit not only
through salaries but also through shareholding in the business.
“It demonstrates a business philosophy that recognises that success is best when shared. It reflects a
commitment not only to profitability but also empowerment and inclusion,” said Maphalala.
The minister was speaking during celebrations marking the recycling company’s 20 years in operation, a
milestone he described as evidence of vision, resilience and determination.
He said surviving and growing over two decades required perseverance through changing economic
conditions, evolving markets and numerous business challenges.
Beyond employee ownership, Maphalala also applauded the company’s contribution to environmental
sustainability and economic development through its recycling operations.
He said ESA had transformed waste into economic opportunities for many households by creating a
market for recyclable materials collected by community members.
“What was once seen as trash has now become cash. What was once considered waste has become a
source of dignity and livelihood for many households,” he said.
The minister further noted that the company contributes to the country’s industrial development
agenda through exports, earning foreign currency while demonstrating that local businesses can
compete successfully in regional and international markets.
He said businesses such as ESA are helping to build a green and circular economy at a time when
sustainability and responsible resource management are becoming increasingly important globally.
Maphalala also highlighted that the company processes approximately 45 tonnes of recyclable material
every day, generating an estimated E5 million in monthly revenue. He noted that the figures illustrate
the growing potential of the recycling industry to create jobs, support livelihoods and contribute to
economic growth while reducing the volume of waste destined for landfills
Meanwhile, Eswatini Environment Authority Managing Director, Gcina Dladla, commended ESA for its
contribution to advancing the country’s green economy. Dladla said the company plays a critical role in
waste management and environmental protection, adding that he often imagines what Eswatini would
look like if recycling companies such as ESA did not exist.
“When you think about the volume of waste generated every day, you begin to appreciate the
importance of companies like Eric Slabbert Agencies. Their work not only protects the environment but
also creates economic opportunities while supporting the country’s transition to a green economy,” he
said.
As the company marked two decades in business, Maphalala encouraged it to continue creating
opportunities, growing its impact and inspiring other businesses through its example of shared
prosperity and innovation.
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