Founder & Board of Directors

Founder and Executive Director

Sebenzile Dlamini

Sebenzile Dlamini founded Women in Trade and Development (WITAD) in 2014, driven by a deep concern for the poverty affecting households across Eswatini. At the time, she was in formal employment, later leaving in March 2022 to fully commit to developing and executing WITAD’s programs.

Her professional experience spans several leadership roles in government, including Head of Business Incubator, Chief Economist, Director of Trade and Commerce, Senior Trade Policy Analyst, and Economist. She also runs a small business, which she hopes will inspire adolescent girls and young women to explore entrepreneurship.

WITAD began with small-scale, donation-based efforts—providing food, clothing, and shelter to vulnerable families, including building a home for a family of four in Malindza in 2015. With early support from her husband, the organization’s first donor and volunteer, Mrs. Dlamini deepened her understanding of poverty’s complexities. These experiences shifted WITAD’s model from short-term relief to long-term empowerment—focusing on mindset transformation and sustainable programs for women, youth, and children.

Oversight Driven by Impact

Board of Directors

Chairperson

Mandelenkosi Dlamini

Mandlenkosi Dlamini is the Founder and Managing Director of Sdudla Engineering, a structural steelwork construction firm established in 2007. He has held several senior finance roles, including Accountant positions at Usutu Pulp Company (SAPPI) and training at PwC. In addition to his business leadership, he runs a commercial horticulture venture supplying both local and export markets. Mandlenkosi holds a Diploma in Business Studies from UNISWA and is a member of AAT, with a CIMA Diploma in Management Accounting.

Deputy Chairperson | Former Chairperson

Tawonga Gondwe

Tawonga Gondwe brings over a decade of entrepreneurial and professional experience, including 13 years teaching informally and over 3 years running a formal business. She has held roles as Project Manager, Coordinator, and Engineer across various sectors. Tawonga holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Information Management and has earned multiple professional certifications, including PMP® (Project Management Professional), McKinsey Forward Program, and ISO standards auditor qualifications. Her diverse skill set strengthens the board’s leadership and strategic direction.

Board Member

Gcinaphi Simelane

Gcinaphi Simelane brings extensive expertise in human capital and learning development, with over 10 years as a Human Capital Partner and 6 years specializing in Learning & Development. She holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Management Strategy, a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, and a Diploma in Human Resource Management. Gcinaphi’s strong background supports the organization’s focus on leadership and capacity building.

Board Member

Sicelo Dlamini

Sicelo Dlamini is a seasoned executive with over 15 years of multidisciplinary experience across engineering, operations, and strategic leadership. He has served in C-suite roles and led projects in organizations such as MTN Eswatini, Eswatini Beverages, Royal Eswatini Sugar, Mondelez International, NAMPAK, and Eswatini Water Services Corporation. Currently serving as Director for Strategy and Digitization, Sicelo holds a Master of Business Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, and has completed an Entrepreneurship Residency Program. His expertise strengthens WITAD’s focus on innovation and strategic growth.

Board Member

Zweli Shabangu

Zweli Shabangu is a legal professional with nearly two decades of experience in commercial litigation. He is a Partner at Magagula and Hlophe Attorneys, where he has practiced since 2006. In addition to his legal practice, Zweli has served as an examiner for Civil Law and Procedure and as a part-time lecturer for six years. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Swaziland. His deep legal insight adds strategic value to WITAD’s governance and compliance efforts.

Board Member

Nosipho Dlamini

Nosipho Dlamini is a co-founder and entrepreneur at DJD Investments Limited, a business focused on piggery farming. She also has experience as a research assistant, contributing to evidence-based approaches in rural development. Nosipho holds a Master’s Degree in Rural Development, bringing valuable insight on agricultural entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods to WITAD’s mission.