“Automate or Die”: Stratcom CEO Champions AI for SME Growth at Consumer Forum 2025
BY SIKHULILE DLAMINI
Ezulwini (15 March 2025) – Embracing artificial intelligence is no longer optional for small businesses – it’s a necessity. This was the resounding message from Stratcom Media CEO Sibusiso Mngadi at the Consumer Choices Forum 2025, where he delivered a compelling presentation titled “Automate or Die: AI for SME Growth.” Mngadi urged Eswatini’s entrepreneurs to adopt AI-driven automation to remain competitive, efficient, and scalable in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
AI Adoption: Key to Competitiveness and Efficiency
During his address, Mngadi emphasized that businesses integrating AI are “more likely to be successful in the future, as it enables them to remain competitive, efficient, and accessible — all qualities that consumers demand today. According to Mngadi, adopting AI is not just about technology for its own sake; it enhances operational effectiveness and aligns businesses with modern consumer expectations.
He backed up this call-to-action with striking data and examples. Globally, over 80% of companies are already using or exploring AI solutions, he noted, underscoring that early adopters gain a strong competitive edge. In fact, nine out of ten SMEs now consider AI indispensable for business growth. Mngadi explained that small businesses leveraging AI have seen up to a 75% increase in annual revenue, while also reducing operating costs by an average of 15–25%. These improvements directly impact an SME’s bottom line, allowing them to do more with less.
AI-driven automation also boosts efficiency in day-to-day operations. Mngadi highlighted that AI can complete routine tasks 40–60% faster than humans, with an 80% reduction in errors. This level of efficiency translates into productivity gains of roughly 30% for small enterprises – meaning a modest team can accomplish the work of a much larger one. Importantly, modern AI tools are increasingly accessible and affordable. “Many AI solutions today are free or low-cost and don’t require specialized expertise to implement,” Mngadi noted, pointing out that even startups can integrate AI into their workflows without heavy investment. In effect, these technologies allow a business to scale up operations without a proportional increase in resources, helping SMEs remain agile and scalable as demand grows.
Consumer Choices Forum 2025: Empowering Local Entrepreneurs
The Consumer Choices Forum 2025 itself provided the perfect backdrop for Mngadi’s message. Organized by local social enterprise A Peculiar People in celebration of World Consumer Rights Day, the forum was designed to spark dialogue on MSME growth and sustainability in Eswatini’s evolving market. Held at the state-of-the-art Eswatini Revenue Service Auditorium in Ezulwini on 15 March, the event brought together dozens of local entrepreneurs whose products will feature in the upcoming Made in Eswatini Consumer Fair 2025. These businesses – selected for their quality, authenticity, and eco-friendliness – represent the future of Eswatini’s economy, and the forum aimed to equip them with knowledge to thrive. Topics ranged from digital innovation to conscious consumerism, all geared towards helping small businesses adapt to modern consumer expectations and drive sustainable growth.
In addition to Mngadi’s tech-focused session, attendees heard from other industry leaders sharing their expertise. Sara Vost, Head of Trade for Eswatini’s renowned MTN Bush Fire and Standard Bank Luju festivals, spoke on navigating large-scale events as a trader, offering do’s and don’ts for MSMEs preparing to showcase their products at big festivals. Her insights addressed practical challenges like engaging festival-goers, managing logistics, and maximizing sales opportunities in high-traffic event environments. Meanwhile, Claudia Castellanos, Co-Founder and CEO of Black Mamba (a local ethical foods brand), delivered a passionate talk on embracing sustainable business practices. She highlighted how integrating sustainability – from eco-friendly packaging to fair trade sourcing – can enhance brand value, customer loyalty, and long-term profitability for small businesses.
The forum also featured opening remarks by consumer rights advocate Bongani Bhanyaza Mdluli, Chairman of the Eswatini Consumer Association, and a panel discussion with experts from the competition commission and marketing sector on the rise of the “conscious consumer”. Together, these sessions painted a comprehensive picture of the opportunities and challenges facing Eswatini’s entrepreneurs in today’s consumer landscape. From tax education provided by the Eswatini Revenue Service to digital marketing strategies and sustainability pledges, the event covered critical areas that MSMEs must understand to succeed.
Significance for Eswatini’s Business Community
For Eswatini’s business community, the Consumer Choices Forum 2025 was more than just a seminar – it was a catalyst for change. By bringing together thought leaders and entrepreneurs under one roof, the forum created a space for local MSMEs to learn, network, and commit to innovation. The insights shared on AI, market trends, and sustainability directly empower small business owners to make informed decisions in steering their companies forward. Events like this play a crucial role in preparing Eswatini’s entrepreneurs to compete not only locally but also in regional and global markets by embracing new tools and practices.
Stratcom Media’s involvement in the forum underscores a wider commitment to driving growth and innovation in the country. The agency not only contributed expertise through Mngadi’s presentation but also supported the event’s success through live social media coverage and content creation.
