Business Eswatini

Business Eswatini stands as the foremost private sector advocacy organization and chamber of commerce in the Kingdom of Eswatini. With a rich heritage tracing back to the Swaziland Chamber of Commerce & Industry formed in 1916 and the Federation of Swaziland Employers established in 1964, the organization was created in its current form through the amalgamation of these two powerhouses in 2003. Today, it represents over 80% of the private sector, acting as the definitive "Home of Business" and bridging the gap between commercial enterprises, government bodies, and organized labor.

Located on Malagwane Hill in Mbabane, within the Hhohho District, Business Eswatini is more than a membership body—it is a catalyst for economic growth and a critical voice in shaping a conducive business climate. By working closely with policymakers and investors, the team strives to remove barriers to trade, mobilize investment, and promote best practices in corporate governance and corporate citizenship for businesses across the country.

Advocacy, Representation & Policy Influence

One of the core pillars of Business Eswatini is its unwavering commitment to advocacy. The organization plays a key role in shaping the national economy by being an active participant in policy reform. The team represents, promotes, and defends the interests of members and the entire private sector with a united voice, ensuring that business perspectives are heard at the highest levels of government.

This advocacy work extends beyond local borders. As a member of prestigious international bodies, including the International Organization of Employers (IOE), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the SADC Private Sector Forum (SPSF), and the Association of SADC Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Business Eswatini connects the local industry with strategic partners globally. This connectivity helps influence international labor standards and trade policies to benefit Eswatini's economic landscape.

• Policy Reform: A critical voice in creating an investor-friendly regulatory environment.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Bridging communication between the private sector, government, and organized labour.
• Global Connectivity: Linking local businesses to international chambers and policy forums.

Comprehensive Membership Services & Support

Membership with Business Eswatini offers tangible value that goes far beyond a certificate. The organization is dedicated to helping enterprises grow through a suite of advisory and support services. Whether it is a matter of industrial relations, trade disputes, or strategic growth, the expert team provides guidance that members can trust. The in-house experts differ their approach depending on the specific needs of each business, ensuring personalized and effective support.

Members gain access to training opportunities, often at a subsidized rate or entirely free of cost. These capacity-building programs are designed to upskill staff and management with the knowledge required to navigate modern commercial challenges. Additionally, the organization connects businesses to vital information and facilitates networking with peers, creating a community where collaboration fosters resilience.

Industrial Relations & Company Secretariat

A dedicated department aggressively expands the organization's presence within the industrial relations space. Led by seasoned professionals like Nelisiwe Mtshali, this unit ensures that businesses are supported in navigating complex employment laws and maintaining harmonious workplaces.

Empowering Women in Business (BWE)

Business Eswatini Women Empowerment (BWE) is a dedicated department created solely to uplift and empower women economically. This initiative provides targeted resources, training, and networking opportunities to ensure that female entrepreneurs and professionals thrive in the private sector.

• Advisory Services: Expert guidance on trade and industrial relations issues.
• Training & Upskilling: Low-cost or free programs to enhance business competencies.
• Networking: Connecting businesses to vital opportunities and each other.
• Online Business Directory: Members can claim a free listing to boost visibility.

Shaping a Conducive Business Climate

Business Eswatini actively works to make Eswatini a welcoming environment for both businesses and their employees. The focus is on sustaining a strong economy by advocating for policies that make the nation investor-friendly. This involves regular intervention in crises, such as convening oil sector meetings to ensure national fuel stability, and propelling the national agenda forward through key strategic appointments that fortify state-business relations.

The leadership, including CEO E. Nathi Dlamini, emphasizes that the organization not only eliminates pain points for businesses but also actively adds value to member operations and the holistic private sector. By diversifying and aggressively expanding its service offerings, Business Eswatini ensures it remains agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the economy.

Serving Bulembu & The Hhohho District

While headquartered in Mbabane, the influence of Business Eswatini ripples throughout the Hhohho District and beyond. Businesses in Bulembu and the surrounding regions benefit from the centralized advocacy, connectivity, and support services that the organization provides. The office serves as a hub where local entrepreneurs can connect with national policies and international markets, turning local enterprises into players on a bigger stage.

The organization’s physical presence on Malagwane Hill is a landmark for the private sector. The central location makes it accessible for members traveling from across the district to attend meetings, training sessions, and policy forums designed to strengthen the regional economy.

Hours, Location & Directions

The Business Eswatini office is conveniently located at Malagwane Hill, P. O. Box 72, Mbabane H100. The team is available to serve members and answer inquiries during the business week. Visitors can reach the office by phone or email to schedule consultations or discuss membership benefits.

• Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:45 PM
• Phone: +268 2404 0768 or +268 7699 5985
• Email: info@business-eswatini.co.sz
• Website: business-eswatini.co.sz

Questions Visitors Ask

Prospective members often inquire about how Business Eswatini can directly impact their bottom line. The answer lies in the combination of cost-saving advisory services, risk mitigation through industrial relations support, and growth opportunities unlocked through networking and international representation. The organization acts as a shield and a spear for the private sector, defending against unfavorable policies while pushing forward initiatives that create prosperity.