His Majesty King Mswati III has called on emaSwati entrepreneurs to rise to the challenge of building billion Emalangeni enterprises that can transform Eswatini’s economy and position the kingdom among the region’s leading business nations.
The King made this call during the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (EYA) national gala dinner hosted by the Small Enterprises Development Company (SEDCO) at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre on Friday. The event celebrated outstanding entrepreneurs from across the country and named Duncan Dlamini, founder of DJD Investments, as the national winner.
Addressing hundreds of business leaders, government officials, and guests, His Majesty presented a bold national vision: to witness the emergence of homegrown billionaires from Eswatini’s entrepreneurial landscape.
“Let us make more billionaires from the kingdom. I would like to return and honor billionaires who started from humble beginnings right here in Eswatini,” he said.
He urged entrepreneurs to seize opportunities within the local market, partner for growth, and continue building businesses that generate jobs, wealth, and lasting impact.
“Next time, when I return, I would like to award billionaires who have started here in the kingdom,” His Majesty said.
His Majesty further praised the growth of the EYA platform and the entrepreneurial spirit it has fostered since its beginning. He said the competition had evolved “from a humble start” into one of the kingdom’s top displays of innovation and business excellence.
“I am quite sure that next year we will double the number because of the competitive spirit shown here tonight,” His Majesty said, noting that the increased participation reflected Eswatini’s growing confidence in entrepreneurship as a key driver of national development.
The King commended past winners for setting the standard, citing testimonies from previous champions whose businesses have expanded operations and visibility beyond national borders.
“They have been recognized not only locally but also outside the kingdom by other institutions,” he said, adding that such achievements enhance Eswatini’s global reputation.
His Majesty also praised financial institutions for supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through capital and advisory services, highlighting that access to finance is essential for business success. He further acknowledged the international recognition of emaSwati entrepreneurs, describing their global acknowledgment as “a great advertisement for the kingdom.”
Encouraging those who did not win this year, the King said, “Do not give up. Keep up the good spirit because I know in you there is a willing spirit. Tomorrow you will be among those who take the prize.”