FNB Eswatini is set to shake up the home ownership market in Eswatini with the introduction of its enhanced Sicalo Home Loan, which now caters to emaSwati earning between E3,000 and E8,000 monthly.
As an enhancement of the bank’s existing Umkhaya Home Loan, the product was unveiled on Saturday, during the opening day of the 2025 Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) at Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre and forms part of the bank’s year-long 30th birthday celebration.
According to FNB’s Home Loans Lead, Paris Dlamini, the bank is committed to making home building affordable for all emaSwati.
“At FNB, we understand that building a home is about more than bricks; it’s about dignity, stability, and creating something that lasts for your family. For 30 years, FNB has been making banking firsts that matter. Now, a first that lasts is here for all EmaSwati. Now, every liSwati can own a home through FNB,” he said.
The bank requires that the loan applicant be permanently employed and be primarily banking with FNB. “This doesn’t just cover your own home but also building at your family home, be it your lilawu, intsanga, or indlu yakagogo. Whatever it is, we want to help EmaSwati achieve their homeownership dreams. For more information, emaSwati can call us on our toll-free number 800 6100,” he added.
Qualifying for the loan is also made more accessible as customers do not need expensive house plans and contractors. Instead, they can apply with a simple plan that demonstrates the structure and materials required and use small-scale builders as long as they are trained and certified.
Interviewed at the launch, Sifiso Maziya praised the bank for the product, noting that the product will be helpful for those who earn on the lower side. “Sometimes saving towards building can take a long time yet getting the loan means you can build quickly. For me, what is important is having a home and this loan can help me get there,” he said.