Lubombo, Eswatini – His Majesty King Mswati III has extended Eswatini’s commitment to industrialization, unveiling an ambitious plan to construct at least 10 factory shells annually. The announcement was made during the launch of the Gamula factory shell in the Lubombo region, a key step in the country’s broader strategy to drive economic growth and employment creation.

The newly launched Gamula factory shell is operated by Smartware, a textile company that will employ up to 1,000 emaSwati at full capacity. In addition to boosting the local economy, the facility includes a state-of-the-art clinic, enhancing access to healthcare for workers and the surrounding community.

“For us to attain first-world status, we must have industries,” said His Majesty King Mswati III. “Such projects are good as they also come with the use of advanced technology, which should give emaSwati studying technology an opportunity to practice their skills.”

His Majesty emphasized that the development of factory shells aligns with Eswatini’s industrialization drive, which is expected to generate significant economic opportunities. By fostering the growth of manufacturing and technology-driven industries, the country aims to create more jobs and position itself as a regional economic hub.

Beyond industrial development, King Mswati III also acknowledged the contributions of local farmers and cooperative groups in Gamula, praising them for producing high-quality fruits and vegetables that support food security and job creation. He encouraged farmers to diversify their production to include cotton, which could be supplied to the new factories, further strengthening Eswatini’s self-sufficiency and industrial growth.

In a call for sustainable agricultural development, the King urged imiphakatsi (traditional authorities) to allocate land for farming, allowing emaSwati to access loans and establish viable farming enterprises. This, he said, would enhance food security and economic sovereignty for the nation.

The launch of the Gamula factory shell marks a significant milestone in Eswatini’s economic transformation agenda, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering industrialization, job creation, and agricultural sustainability.