By Sizwe Dlamini
The Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, has extended a warm invitation to the public for the 2024 Eswatini International Trade Fair, promising that it will be the biggest and most exciting one.
Speaking from the Ministry’s offices in Mbabane, Khumalo highlighted the fair’s impressive line-up of entertainment and activities designed for the entire family to enjoy.
The trade fair kicks off on August 31 at Mavuso Trade Centre in Manzini, with an opening day that will be free of charge. The day’s festivities will feature an electrifying program with performances by renowned acts such as DJ Mbo, Sipho Makhabane, and Big Zulu, among others.
In addition to the live entertainment, attendees will have the chance to participate in a grand prize draw for a car.
“I urge members of the public to enter the draw for the car by placing their entrance ticket in the draw,” he said.
Khumalo emphasized that this year’s event is set to be a memorable one, filled with diverse activities that cater to all ages. The opening day of the fair will include free entrance for children to the funfair games, ensuring that families can enjoy a day out without any extra costs.
Highlights on the entertainment front include gospel shows featuring acts like Worship House, dance competitions, fashion shows, stand-up comedy, and a variety of sporting events such as basketball, volleyball, table tennis, netball, and football.
Khumalo also announced the introduction of a new sponsor, 8BET, which has partnered with the Premier League of Eswatini, adding to the excitement of the football on show.
Additionally, the trade fair will host a range of exhibitions, including agricultural and continental trade showcases, and seminars sponsored by First National Bank. Visitors can expect to engage with over 250 exhibitors and explore a broad spectrum of business opportunities.
The FNB Business Chamber and Center will be the hubs for these seminars, with additional resources available through the Eswatini International Trade Fair App.
Additionally, the Ministry of Home Affairs will also be on hand to offer vital citizen registration services, including IDs, passports, and birth certificates.
“This year, we are thrilled to offer an event that surpasses all previous ones in scope and variety,” Khumalo stated. “With the incredible range of entertainment and opportunities for networking, this trade fair is set to be a landmark event for Eswatini. We encourage everyone to come and experience what promises to be a highlight of the year.”
Khumalo concluded by thanking the fair’s partners, including Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), Wesbank, FNB Eswatini, 8BET, Jenny Internet Eswatini, Swaziland Building Society, MulaSport, Eswatini TV, Channel YemaSwati, Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services ( EBIS), Voice of the Church (VOC), Kelloggs Tolleram Eswatini, Lush HairCare Eswatini, Infinity, Eswatini Sugar Association, and Dixies, to mention but a few, for their invaluable support.