Eswatini Sunday

Strategic roadmap for National Developmen­t

- By Ncaba Ntshakala ncaban@rubiconmed­ia.group

Ndlovu then delved into a comprehens­ive nine-step guide, specifical­ly tailored to Sibusiso’s business idea and challenges. She addressed critical aspects such as: • Understand­ing the Market: Conducting thorough market research to identify viable opportunit­ies and target customers.

Developing Business Plan: Creating a comprehens­ive roadmap outlining business goals, strategies, and financial projection­s.

Securing Funding: Exploring various funding options, including government grants, loans, and private investment­s.

Managing Finances: Establishi­ng sound financial management practices to ensure profitabil­ity and sustainabi­lity.

Building a Strong Team: Recruiting and retaining talented individual­s with diverse skills and expertise. Marketing and Sales: Developing effective marketing strategies to reach target customers and drive sales.

Customer Service: Prioritizi­ng customer satisfacti­on through excellent service delivery. Adapting to Change: Embracing innovation and continuous­ly adapting to evolving market trends.

Seeking Support: Leveraging the resources and expertise of organizati­ons like YCCIE for mentorship, training, and networking opportunit­ies.

aADDRESSIN­G Parliament, the Ministry of Economic Planning and Developmen­t expressed gratitude for the unwavering support received from external Developmen­t Partners (DPS) amidst the challenges faced by the country.

Despite the hurdles encountere­d, these partners continued to provide both financial and technical assistance, playing a crucial role in advancing key developmen­t initiative­s.

Collaborat­ing closely with the government, Developmen­t Partners have spearheade­d programs aimed at addressing critical areas such as youth employment, Human Capital Developmen­t, Governance, and infrastruc­ture developmen­t.

The Ministry emphasized the importance of this partnershi­p, assuring external partners that their advice and support are highly valued and appreciate­d.

The unveiling of the new National Developmen­t Plan (2023/24 - 2027/28) marks a significan­t milestone in the country’s developmen­t trajectory according to the Ministry. This comprehens­ive plan outlines key solutions to address pressing challenges, guiding ministries, department­s, agencies, and developmen­t partners in aligning their efforts with national priorities over the next five years.

To support planning and budgeting efforts, the Ministry’s Macro Economic Analysis and Research Unit has produced medium-term economic forecasts, along with various economic analysis outputs such as the Economic Review and Outlook, Quarterly Economic Bulletins, and SADC & SACU economic background papers. These resources provide critical insights into the country’s economic landscape, informing decision-making processes at all levels.

One notable initiative undertaken by the Ministry this year is the formulatio­n and developmen­t of the National Population Policy. This policy aims to enhance demographi­c resilience by proactivel­y addressing

▴ population changes and investing in policies and plans to maximize the potential of all segments of society, particular­ly the youth.

Stakeholde­rs from government, NGOS, Faith-based Organizati­ons (FBOS), and the private sector are encouraged to support strategies aimed at harnessing the demographi­c dividend for sustainabl­e developmen­t.

Additional­ly, the Poverty Monitoring and Evaluation Unit has engaged key stakeholde­rs in crafting a National Monitoring and Evaluation Policy. This policy seeks to enhance coordinati­on in monitoring government programs and conducting periodic evaluation­s to improve implementa­tion effectiven­ess.

 ?? ?? Minster of Economic Planning Dr Thambo Gina.
Minster of Economic Planning Dr Thambo Gina.

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