... calls for conducive policy environment
MBABANE – Business Eswatini (BE) President Mvuselelo Fakudze says their pledge to collaborate with the Government of Eswatini remains unwavering.
Fakudze, who was represented by CONCO General Manager Muzi Mahlobo said they believe that a conducive policy environment was the cornerstone for the fruition of their projects waiting in the pipeline.
He said these endeavours were not just investments in infrastructure but in the very fabric of the society.
DEEPER COLLABORATION
On behalf of the entire business community of Eswatini, Fakudze expressed collective and renewed hope for a deeper collaboration with government.
BE Vice President Muzi Siyaya said the alignment of policies, regulations and actions were essential to eliminate bottlenecks, reduce bureaucratic hurdles and create a seamless operational landscape for businesses.
Siyaya said the recent initiatives have demonstrated the positive impact of such coherence. He said for instance, government’s decision to reduce the corporate tax rate and increase in the threshold for VAT registration has been a bold step towards stimulating entrepreneurship and investment in the growth of SMEs, which are the backbone of the economy.
WORK IN UNISON
Siyaya said it was with this understanding that BE urges all government sectors to work in unison, ensuring that policies are not only well-crafted but also synergistically implemented. He said this would pave the way for a robust and dynamic business sector, capable of driving economic growth, creating jobs, and reducing disparities.
He added that the role of public-private partnerships could not be overstated. He said private – public partnerships (PPP) were a testament to the power of collaboration, where the public and private sectors join forces to develop and operate infrastructure, improve public services, and cover investment needs.
“We call upon the Government of Eswatini to show a strong commitment to PPPs, specifically advancing the regulatory framework,” said Siyaya.
The vice president said these partnerships harness private sector investment and operational efficiencies, which were crucial for the provision of public assets and services.
MULTIPLIER EFFECT
“As we continue to foster these partnerships, we will see a multiplier effect on our economy – spurring innovation, creating jobs, and enhancing our competitiveness on the global stage,” he said.
He mentioned that these pillars were essential for creating a thriving economic landscape, where the private sector can flourish. He said by addressing these areas, they could collectively contribute to economic growth, significantly reduce unemployment, and bridge the gap of income inequality.