Standard Bank Eswatini Chief Executive (CE), Mvuselelo Fakudze, says the growth enjoyed by the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival is not by chance but results from purposeful partnerships, visionary creativity, and a deep commitment to empowering local talent, reflecting their brand ethos: Eswatini is our home, we drive her growth.
Fakudze disclosed this during the official launch of this year’s festival edition, held at House on Fire, Malkerns, on Friday night.
Notable attendees included Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, the Minister of Sports, Arts & Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, who joined virtually, the Minister of Tourism & Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta, the Minister of Commerce, Industry & Trade Manqoba khumalo, the Chief Executive of the National Arts & Culture Council, as well as festival sponsors and partners.
Now in its 7th year, the festival has evolved into one of Southern Africa’s most compelling cultural experiences.
The CE noted that the festival has transformed the lives of many entrepreneurs and positively contributed to the local economy. “In 2024, the festival reached record heights with attendees from over 23 countries, generating E2.5 million through SME traders, and gaining regional exposure that cements its status as a premier platform for food, fashion, and the arts.”
He added that strategic partnerships like the Luju Festival and the Grow Beyond Borders SME Seminar have helped entrepreneurs scale their businesses, reach new markets, and access real opportunities.
“This year’s SME Seminar will bring together high-potential businesses, regional funders, and ecosystem partners in a powerful display of cross-border collaboration, from curated B2B matchmaking sessions to robust panel discussions on fashion, logistics, and the future of African trade.”
Fakudze further noted that the festival is now regarded as a premium sponsorship property across the Standard Bank Group.
He highlighted that they were awarded the best Event & Experience in the UBORA Awards for 2024, beating other events across Africa and South Africa, which confirms the festival’s growing stature.
The CE concluded by thanking everyone who has contributed to the festival’s success over the years.
“We once again extend our sincere appreciation to His Majesty’s Government for your continued support and guidance. To our fellow sponsors and partners, we value the opportunity to walk this journey with you and contribute mutually to the festival’s advancement. Thank you for believing in purpose-led partnerships. To our artists, chefs, designers, traders, and entrepreneurs, thank you for being bold, brave, and brilliant.”