Standard Bank Eswatini is taking bold steps to empower the country’s youth through entrepreneurship and financial education, ensuring they have the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in today’s increasingly competitive and digitized world.
With a significant E2.5 million Corporate Social Investment (CSI) budget for 2023, the bank is creating pathways for young emaSwati to turn their ideas into impactful businesses that contribute to economic growth and job creation.
Fostering Entrepreneurship through Financial Education
One of the central focuses of Standard Bank’s CSI initiatives is providing financial education to youth-led enterprises. The bank recognizes that financial literacy is critical for young entrepreneurs to succeed in managing and growing their businesses.
“We are committed to increasing access to financial education for young entrepreneurs. Our goal is to provide the skills and knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the business world,” said Mlamuli Hlatshwayo, Standard Bank Eswatini’s Head of Business and Commercial Banking.
By offering tailored workshops, mentorship programs, and access to financial resources, the bank is enabling youth to make informed decisions about investments, savings, and business strategies.
Creating Job Opportunities through Innovation
In addition to financial education, Standard Bank Eswatini is investing in job creation initiatives that encourage creativity and innovation. The bank’s CSI programs are designed to support game-changing startups that solve real-world problems while creating employment opportunities.
“We believe that Eswatini’s future success is closely tied to the innovation and productivity of its young people. Our role is to provide them with the tools they need to transform their ideas into thriving businesses that generate jobs and contribute to the economy,” Hlatshwayo added.
Through these efforts, the bank has seen promising young entrepreneurs travel regionally and internationally, connecting with peers and expanding their mindsets to create businesses Eswatini can be proud of.
Supporting Youth to Overcome Economic Challenges
With Eswatini facing high levels of youth unemployment, Standard Bank’s initiatives are more crucial than ever. By focusing on skills development and entrepreneurship, the bank aims to lower the unemployment rate and equip young people with the skills necessary to tackle economic challenges.
“Our intention is to empower young people to overcome the obstacles they face in finding meaningful employment,” said Hlatshwayo. “Through entrepreneurship, we are giving them the opportunity to not only create jobs for themselves but for others as well.”
Equitable Participation for Women in Business
Standard Bank Eswatini also emphasizes the importance of ensuring that women have equitable access to business opportunities. Hlatshwayo highlighted the bank’s commitment to encouraging the participation of women in the economy, particularly through entrepreneurship and financial training.
“We are intentional about creating opportunities for women to excel in business. Gender equality is an essential part of our strategy, and we want to see more women at the forefront of economic growth,” he stated.
A Brighter Future for Eswatini’s Youth
As Standard Bank continues to invest in the next generation of entrepreneurs, the impact of their CSI programs is already being felt across the country. Young emaSwati are gaining the confidence, skills, and resources they need to build businesses that can solve local problems, create jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth.
By fostering a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, Standard Bank Eswatini is paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for the country’s youth.
“Our investment in youth entrepreneurship is an investment in Eswatini’s future,” concluded Hlatshwayo. “We are proud to support initiatives that empower the next generation to create lasting, meaningful change.”