By Inside Biz
The Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF) marked its 50th Anniversary with a heartfelt tribute to the dedicated women of the Far East Textile Factory in Matsapha.
On Thursday 29 August, the ENPF celebrated the hardworking women of the Far East Textile Factory in Matsapha. The over 400 women factory employees are among the over 157,000 members the Fund serves.
ENPF Chief Executive Officer Futhi Tembe paid tribute to these women for their unwavering dedication to their work and caring for their families.
Tembe commended Managing Director, Tokkie Hou, for her inspirational leadership and her company’s employment of women, which has significantly contributed to the country’s socio-economic development. Tembe was accompanied by her executive management, who also encouraged the women.
“Let us be encouraged to keep working hard for the betterment of our families, our workplaces, and our beautiful country, Eswatini because by so doing, we are also setting an example for future generations of women to work as hard – showing them that anything is possible when we work together and lift each other,” she said, instilling a sense of empowerment and motivation in the women.
She noted that South Africa was commemorating Women’s Month through August, and even in Eswatini, the importance of recognizing these women’s contributions could not be overlooked, reinforcing the women’s sense of appreciation and respect.
“We have set aside this day to celebrate your strength, hard work, and commitment, which has made a significant impact in the manufacturing industry here at Far East Factory,” she emphasised.
The women at the factory were presented with thoughtful gifts—lunch box carriers— as a token of appreciation for their hard work. Tembe also took the time to tour the factory, engaging directly with the workers and offering words of encouragement. The women expressed their contentment with the visit, showing smiles and appreciation throughout the day.
“Women are the heart of our nation’s manufacturing sector, driving the industry forward from the production floor, in the offices, or any other role. You help drive the nation’s economic success every day, and today, we are here to celebrate you,” Tembe said, further highlighting women’s vital role in Eswatini’s economy.
She informed the women that this year marks the 50th anniversary of ENPF’s establishment. As part of the Fund’s mission, they remain committed to creating an inclusive work environment where women feel valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their full potential. She said they believed that even at Far East Textiles the same applied.
While the focus of the day was on celebrating the women, Tembe also took the opportunity to share important information about ENPF products and services, particularly the ongoing “Know Your Customer” (KYC) campaign.
She explained that the initiative is designed to review, update, and validate member data on the ENPF system, collect nomination forms, and educate members on the benefits of ENPF’s offerings.
“This exercise will benefit you, our members, in several ways,” she stated.
These benefits include receiving SMS notifications when contributions are made, accessing accounts via the ENPF app or portal, lodging claims online, and staying updated with ENPF news through digital platforms.
Tembe encouraged all employees to visit the ENPF desk set up at the factory to complete the KYC process, assuring them that the ENPF team would be available throughout the day to assist.
The women were allowed to take time off to update their information through the Funds’ KYC initiative, demonstrating the company’s commitment to the well-being and recognition of its female employees.
“We remain committed to creating an inclusive work environment where every woman feels valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their full potential,” she said.
In her closing remarks, Tembe inspired the women to reflect on their powerful roles in their families, workplaces, and communities. She encouraged them to continue working hard for the betterment of Eswatini and to embrace the power of sisterhood.
“I urge each of us, as women, to support one another, work in unison, and rise to greatness together,” she said, leaving the workers with a message of unity and empowerment.
The event was a resounding success, leaving the women of Far East Textile Factory feeling recognized and appreciated. Many expressed that they were motivated to continue their hard work, knowing that their efforts significantly impact the country’s development.