Summary 1. FNB Eswatini CEO Thokozani Dlamini, speaking at the Press Play Digital Awareness Initiative at House on Fire, has hailed the media as a vital strategic partner in national development. 2. Dlamini used the platform to announce FNB's recognition as a Top Employer for 2026 and emphasized the bank's focus on combating digital financial scams through public awareness. 3. He also commended the Eswatini Editors Forum for reviving the National Media Awards, reinforcing the importance of journalism in shaping an informed society.
House on Fire on Tuesday became a centre of dialogue, learning and progressive leadership as FNB Eswatini hosted the Press Play Digital Awareness Initiative, led by Chief Executive Officer Thokozani Dlamini.
Addressing editors, journalists and key stakeholders, Dlamini set an inclusive tone, highlighting FNB’s strong belief in the media as a strategic partner in national development.
He commended the Eswatini Editors Forum for reviving the National Media Awards, describing journalism as a noble and essential profession that plays a critical role in shaping an informed and empowered society.
Dlamini explained that the Press Play initiative, which was launched in 2024, was intentionally created as a trusted thought leadership platform. He said the initiative was designed to move beyond traditional media engagements and instead create meaningful opportunities for open and constructive dialogue between FNB leadership and the media.
“The purpose of Press Play is to create space for honest and robust conversations that ultimately benefit the people of Eswatini,” Dlamini said.
He noted that the 2026 edition of Press Play comes at a significant milestone for the bank, following celebrations marking FNB Eswatini’s 30 years of service in the country. Dlamini said the initiative would focus on addressing key issues affecting customers and communities, particularly the increasing threat of digital and financial scams.
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He stressed the importance of strengthening public awareness around safe banking practices as the country continues to embrace digital financial solutions and online services.
A major highlight of Dlamini’s address was the announcement that FNB Eswatini has once again been recognised as a Top Employer for 2026, both locally and across Africa.
He said the recognition reflects the bank’s continued investment in employee development, workplace excellence and sustainable career growth opportunities. Dlamini pointed to internal success stories within the organisation as evidence of this commitment.
He cited examples of leaders who joined the bank through graduate programmes and progressed into senior leadership positions, demonstrating FNB’s dedication to developing local talent and building a future-ready institution.
Dlamini reaffirmed FNB Eswatini’s commitment to delivering meaningful value to the nation through innovation, transparency and strategic partnerships aimed at empowering communities and strengthening financial inclusion.
Facts on the Topic - Top Employer Institute: The "Top Employer" certification is an independent audit by the Top Employers Institute (global authority on people practices). It evaluates companies on HR strategies, work environment, talent acquisition, learning, well-being and diversity. - Digital Scams in Eswatini: As digital banking adoption grows in Eswatini (e-wallets, app banking), so does cybercrime. Common scams include "vishing" (voice phishing calls pretending to be bank staff) and SIM swap fraud. - Press Play Initiative: This is a specific FNB Eswatini brand property designed for thought leadership. It is distinct from standard press conferences because it focuses on two-way dialogue and education rather than just product announcements. - FNB History: FNB Eswatini (First National Bank) is one of the oldest banks in the country, having recently celebrated its 30th anniversary of operations in the Kingdom.
