By Phiwa Sikhondze
The Municipal Council of Manzini celebrated Urban October by honoring young entrepreneurs who are making strides in sustainable urban development.
Under this year’s theme, “Youth, Architects of Our Urban Future,” the Council awarded three young entrepreneurs through its Entrepreneurship Education Program and two through the Khula Seed Capital Fund.
The ceremony, held at the Council Chambers, underscored the critical role of youth-driven innovation in bolstering the local economy and fostering a sustainable urban landscape.
The Khula Seed Capital Fund recognized Sisekelo Languela, founder of Handy Arts and Crafts, and Bongumenzi Mohammed of Swazee Investments, supporting their contributions to local economic development. Both entrepreneurs received E15 000 each from the Council.
Through the Entrepreneurship Education Program, awards were also presented to three promising entrepreneurs: Gerald Gama of Multimedia Design Studio who received E5,000, Mbali Mabuza of Door to Door Dry Cleaners received E3,000, and Temancele Masina of Fabulous Finest Product was awarded E2,000.
It is worth mentioning that the funding received by the five entrepreneurs was not in cash but in material value.
The Council’s Acting Director of Corporate Services, Simphiwe Malaza represented the CEO and praised the youth’s resilience and innovative spirit. She urged them to embrace their potential as future leaders and use the funding wisely to drive meaningful change in their communities.
“As you encounter challenges in your journey, let it be a reminder that there is a lesson in every obstacle and a positive in every negative,” he remarked, emphasizing adaptability and persistence as keys to building a sustainable future for Manzini.
Malaza also stressed that the awards represent more than financial assistance. “This funding is a testament to the faith we have in your vision. You are the innovators, the dreamers, and the doers. Use these resources wisely and let them empower you to push boundaries and create meaningful change,” he said, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for young businesses to flourish.
Warren Barbosa, Chairperson of the Youth Chamber of Commerce, Manzini Chapter, commended the Council’s initiative and acknowledged the challenges young entrepreneurs face.
“Sometimes, you may dream of going into business, but you don’t know the actual value of it. It takes patience, faith, and hard work,” he stated, encouraging the youth to persevere. “This support from the Council is highly motivational, and we hope it marks the beginning of even greater things to come.”
Barbosa also highlighted the Youth Chamber of Commerce’s role in advocating for young business owners, stressing that entrepreneurship is more than a financial venture.
“Business is a calling. It requires patience and dedication,” he explained, urging the awardees to use their resources to create job opportunities for others and foster growth within the community.
The Urban October celebration emphasized the vital role of young entrepreneurs as architects of Manzini’s future. The awards align with the Council’s vision to promote economic development by empowering youth-led businesses that contribute to a sustainable and thriving urban environment.