Mbabane – Government has formally become a shareholder in SBS Bank Eswatini Limited after Minister for Finance Neal Rijkenberg received the Government Shareholder Certificate yesterday.

The certificate confirms the Government’s shareholding in the newly converted SBS Bank Eswatini Limited following its transition from a building society to a commercial bank.

Speaking during the handover, Rijkenberg said Government’s investment reflected its confidence in the bank and its role in the country’s financial sector.

He said the investment was intended to support a stable financial system, expand opportunities for businesses and contribute to economic development.

“This investment is about more than shareholding. It is about investing in Eswatini’s future by supporting a strong, stable and inclusive financial sector that drives economic growth and delivers value for emaSwati,” said Rijkenberg.

The Minister said the Government viewed the investment as part of its broader efforts to build a resilient financial sector capable of supporting the country’s long-term economic growth.

SBS Bank Eswatini expressed appreciation to the Government for its continued support and confidence. The bank said it remained committed to sound corporate governance, maintaining high operational standards and contributing to the country’s economic development.

Government’s shareholding comes as SBS Bank Eswatini continues operating under its new status as a commercial bank, a transition expected to broaden its range of financial services and expand its participation in the country’s banking sector.