The government has injected E10 million into the Ingelo Programme to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
According to Eswatini Standards Authority (ESWASA) Executive Director Ncamiso Mhlanga, the programme will enable businesses to meet international standards in their production processes.
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Local Certification for Local Businesses
Mhlanga described the Ingelo Certification as a homegrown initiative tailored for local companies interested in selling their products both locally and abroad. He encouraged entrepreneurs to register their products for free inspections under the programme.
He added that Parliament had recently tasked ESWASA and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade to amend legislation to ensure that all products manufactured and consumed in the country are safe.
“We will soon shut down products that do not have certification. These legislative changes are expected in the coming months,” he said.
Ensuring Standards in All Sectors
Mhlanga stressed that the programme would cover both imports and exports, including agricultural produce where inspections would test for insecticide and pesticide use.
He highlighted that the initiative primarily targets entrepreneurs who cannot afford testing costs, ensuring their goods meet the required quality benchmarks.
“As ESWASA, we have a marketing department that works with regulators during awareness campaigns. We cannot sell our quality produce if it doesn’t meet standards,” Mhlanga added.
Boosting Regional and Global Trade
Meanwhile, Director of International Trade Lungile Dlamini emphasized the importance of standards in opening doors for businesses to regional, continental, and international markets.
She noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) would significantly boost intra-African trade by creating a single market for goods and services across 55 countries.
“Through AfCFTA, the Secretariat assists in connecting businesses and products for imports and exports among partner states. Local companies are being supported to penetrate this market,” she said.
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