11/03/2026
GLOBAL COOPERATION AND TRAINING FRAMEWORK
The 2026 Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF) International Workshop on Digital Entrepreneurship is currently underway at The Royal Villas Eswatini, bringing together government leaders, international partners and entrepreneurs to discuss how digital tools can empower MSMEs and drive economic growth in Eswatini.
The workshop features remarks from key dignitaries including Taiwan in Eswatini Ambassador Jeremy H. S. Liang, Ministry of Commerce,Industry & Trade Minister , Manqoba Khumalo, and Marc Weinstock (U.S. Embassy Eswatini, Chargé d’Affaires).
Key takeaways from the opening remarks:
* The GCTF platform, launched by Taiwan and the United States in 2015, has grown into a global knowledge-sharing initiative involving partners such as Japan, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom.
* This marks the third GCTF workshop hosted in Eswatini, following previous engagements focused on women’s empowerment, with the 2026 edition shifting focus to digital entrepreneurship.
* Speakers emphasised that digital tools and innovation can help MSMEs reduce costs, increase productivity and expand into regional and international markets.
* Eswatini currently has around 68 000 MSMEs employing about 93 000 people, highlighting the sector’s critical role in job creation and economic development.
* Taiwan highlighted its commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Eswatini, including plans for a Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park, aimed at attracting technology companies, transferring skills and creating high-quality jobs.
* The workshop aims to equip young entrepreneurs with knowledge, partnerships and digital skills to grow businesses and participate in the modern digital economy.