YKK Southern Africa celebrates 50 years of investment in Eswatini

King Mswati III and Prime Minister Russell Dlamini celebrated the 50th anniversary of YKK Southern Africa in Matsapha, marking five decades of operations in Eswatini. The King described the Japanese manufacturer’s long-term presence as a vote of confidence in the nation’s investment climate and its ability to sustain foreign enterprise.

Since its establishment in 1976, YKK has invested approximately E290 million in the country. The King noted that the company has become an anchor for the local industrial ecosystem, providing employment and sustainable livelihoods for generations of citizens. He encouraged YKK leadership to act as an ambassador to promote Eswatini as a strategic manufacturing base in Africa to other international corporations.

To further attract investment, the King highlighted the country’s tax regime and incentives, identifying agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, automotive components, renewable energy, and advanced electronics as key sectors for future growth.