NHLANGANO – Local entrepreneurs in the Shiselweni region were celebrated on Monday during the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (EYA), which recognised small business owners for their innovation, resilience, and contribution to the economy.
The regional event, held under the theme of recognising micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brought together business owners, government officials, and development partners. A total of 65 businesses from the region were evaluated out of 86 entries submitted, with some operating in sectors ranging from agriculture to informal trading.
The awards are part of a nationwide programme that received 412 applications this year. Shiselweni’s turnout demonstrated the region’s growing reputation as a hub for grassroots entrepreneurship. 
The ceremony was supported by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade alongside key sponsors FNB Eswatini and the FNB Foundation. Other contributors included the Eswatini Standards Authority (SWASA), Eswatini Observer, Swaziland Building Society, Waterman, A Peculiar People, Datamatics Eswatini, and the Youth Enterprise Fund.
SEDCO, one of the main organisers of the awards, commended the determination of business owners who continue to create jobs and build sustainable livelihoods despite limited resources. Winners received trophies and certificates during a formal presentation attended by both private and public sector stakeholders.
