Financial services have been brought closer to the people of Siphofaneni and surrounding areas following the official opening of a new branch by FNB Eswatini, marking a significant step in improving access to banking in the Lubombo region.
The branch, officially opened on Tuesday at Siphofaneni Plaza, reflects the bank’s continued expansion strategy and commitment to enhancing financial inclusion across the country.
Speaking at the event, FNB Eswatini Chief Executive Officer Thokozani ‘TK’ Dlamini said the decision to establish a presence in Siphofaneni was informed by the growing needs of customers and the rapid development of the area.
“We recognise that Siphofaneni is growing, and as a bank, we want to partner with communities and businesses to ensure that essential financial services are accessible where people live and work,” he said.
Dlamini noted that prior to the opening of the branch, residents and business owners in the area had to travel to towns such as Big Bend and Manzini to access banking services, an inconvenience that often came at a cost of both time and money.
“By bringing this branch closer, we are effectively giving back time to emaSwati, time that can now be used to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods,” he added.
The new branch will offer a range of services, including everyday banking and integrated financial advice, aimed at empowering both individuals and businesses with accessible and efficient financial solutions.
The Siphofaneni branch becomes FNB Eswatini’s 13th branch in the country, adding to a growing network that includes over 100 ATMs and Automated Deposit Tellers (ADTs), as well as more than 800 CashPlus agents nationwide.
Dlamini said the expansion aligns with the bank’s broader mission of delivering meaningful impact, particularly in underserved and developing areas.
“This is part of our commitment to ensuring that our services are not only available, but also relevant and responsive to the needs of the communities we serve,” he said.
The initiative also supports government efforts to decentralise essential services and promote inclusive economic growth across all regions of the country.
Representing the Lubombo Regional Administrator, Ntombifuthi Dlamini welcomed the investment, noting its importance in supporting the region’s economic trajectory.
“Siphofaneni is growing fast in terms of business activity, and this branch brings vital financial services closer to the community. We appreciate the investment by FNB and look forward to the growth it will support,” she said.
The development of Siphofaneni Plaza, a property owned by MA Properties, which houses the new branch, was also highlighted as a key enabler in bringing services closer to the people. Bonginkhosi Dludlu of MA Properties expressed appreciation for the partnership with FNB, noting that the bank’s presence affirms the strategic importance of the development.
“This partnership gives us confidence that Siphofaneni is indeed a growing investment destination. We thank FNB for trusting us and for bringing convenient, user-friendly banking services closer to the people,” he said.
The opening comes as FNB Eswatini continues to celebrate over three decades of operations in the country, with Dlamini reaffirming the bank’s commitment to long-term growth and community development.
“As we expand, we want our growth to be reflected in the communities we serve. This branch is a clear demonstration of that commitment,” he said.