By Sizwe Dlamini
The Youth Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Eswatini (YCCIE) recently hosted an engaging youth seminar at the Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF), centered around the theme “Youth’s Role in Eswatini’s Development: Leveraging Opportunities in the AfCFTA Era.”
The event highlighted the crucial role of young people in driving economic growth and innovation in Eswatini and marked the launch of the eagerly awaited MSME Start-Up Tool Kit.
The seminar brought together aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and policymakers to discuss how the burgeoning youth population can contribute to the kingdom’s development.
The MSME Start-Up Tool Kit is designed to support young business owners by providing essential resources for starting and managing businesses. It is a vital resource designed to support new entrepreneurs.
It offers a range of essential features to help them succeed. Key elements include comprehensive business planning tools, which provide templates and guidance for creating business plans and conducting market research.
The toolkit also includes crucial information on legal and regulatory requirements, helping entrepreneurs navigate business registration, licenses, and compliance.
Financial management is another critical aspect covered, with resources for securing funding, managing cash flow, and performing financial forecasting. Marketing and sales strategies are also addressed, offering advice on developing effective marketing plans and leveraging digital platforms.
Operational tools in the kit assist with managing business activities efficiently, while resources on technology and innovation guide on using digital tools and ensuring cybersecurity.
Additionally, the toolkit facilitates access to mentors, advisors, and networking opportunities, which are valuable for growth and support.
Training resources, such as workshops and webinars, are also included to help entrepreneurs build necessary skills. Overall, the toolkit aims to empower young business owners with the knowledge and tools needed for successful business development.
The Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, attended the event and highlighted the importance of the toolkit in fostering youth entrepreneurship. He expressed gratitude to all contributors and stakeholders, emphasizing the need to equip young people with the tools and support necessary for their success.
“The youth represent the future of our economy, and it is essential that we provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed,” Khumalo said.