MINISTER of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane officially appointed the first board of directors of the Ezulwini Palazzo during a ceremony held at Hilton Garden Inn.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mkhonta-Simelane said the establishment of the board marked a new chapter in the management and governance of one of government’s most strategic tourism and economic infrastructure investments.
She said the seven-member board would serve as a strategic link between government, the appointed operator and other key stakeholders.
The board comprises Advocate Mbuso Nhlanhla Simelane as chairperson, Prince Saziwengaye, Dr Celucolo Peter Dludlu, Samukelisiwe Mpimbili-Dlamini, Malangeni Henry Mhlabane, Lindiwe Gwebu and Sifiso Crispin Dlamini.
The minister said the world-class facility was expected to strengthen the country’s position as a competitive destination for international conferences, exhibitions and business events.
“Beyond strengthening our tourism sector, it will create employment opportunities, support local enterprises, stimulate investment and contribute meaningfully to national economic growth,” she said.
Government established Ezulwini Palazzo as a special purpose vehicle to provide strategic oversight, governance and accountability for its operations.
Charging the board, Mkhonta-Simelane outlined five key responsibilities, including ensuring sound corporate governance, overseeing the operator’s performance, safeguarding government’s investment, positioning the ICC and hotel as a leading conferencing destination and providing strategic leadership during the facility’s formative years.
She urged board members to uphold high standards of transparency, accountability and prudent financial management while ensuring compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements.
“As custodians of a strategic national asset, you are called upon to act at all times in the best interests of the kingdom and its people,” she said.
The minister officially commissioned the board and wished its members success as they begin their mandate of guiding the Ezulwini Palazzo towards becoming a leading conferencing and hospitality hub in the region.
The Chairperson, Simelane, thanked government for the trust placed in the board and assured the nation that members would work diligently to ensure the success of the facility.
“We appreciate the confidence that government has shown in us. We understand the importance of this national asset and our responsibility to protect and grow its value for the benefit of the country,” he said.
Simelane said the board would focus on ensuring that the establishment attracts international conferences, investors and visitors, while creating economic opportunities for Emaswati.
He said the facility had the potential to attract high-wealth individuals and international business travellers, helping to position the country as a preferred destination for meetings, conferences and tourism.
“The success of this project will contribute to economic growth and create value for the country. We will work together to ensure that the facility achieves its objectives and delivers returns on government’s investment,” he said.
Members of the ICC Board
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Advocate Mbuso Nhlanhla Simelane – Chairperson
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Prince Saziwengaye
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Dr Celucolo Peter Dludlu
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Samukelisiwe Mpimbili-Dlamini
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Malangeni Henry Mhlabane
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Lindiwe Gwebu
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Sifiso Crispin Dlamini
