MBABANE – The government’s plan to refurbish the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre is being viewed as a step towards strengthening Eswatini’s position as a regional hub for trade exhibitions and investment events.
Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo told Parliament that work is underway to prepare for the upgrade, which will improve the facility’s capacity to host major economic and cultural gatherings.
Khumalo was responding to a question from Mtfongwaneni Member of Parliament Nathi Hlophe, who sought clarity on whether the government intended to give the Manzini-based venue a new lease of life. The minister said the Mavuso Centre remains a vital space for business linkages, trade promotion, and international exhibitions. He noted that while the planned upgrade is not extensive, it marks the beginning of a long-term effort to modernise the country’s largest event venue.
“For now, the focus is on essential improvements to ensure the facility continues to serve both public and private sector needs effectively,” Khumalo said.
Stakeholders in the business community have long emphasised Mavuso’s role in driving commerce and tourism through events like the Eswatini International Trade Fair. The anticipated refurbishment, even on a small scale, is expected to enhance visitor experience and attract more exhibitors in future events.
Although no timelines or budget figures were shared, the minister assured Parliament that the upgrade forms part of the government’s broader plan to support trade infrastructure development across the country.
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