Magistrate Cebisile Ngwenya Appointed Commissioner of Co-operatives in Eswatini

Magistrate Cebisile Ngwenya, a corporate law specialist and former Assistant Master of the High Court, has been appointed Commissioner of Co-operatives in Eswatini. Ngwenya takes over the position previously held by the late Russell Nxumalo, who died in October 2025. Her appointment places her at the helm of the Department of Co-operative Development at a time when some co-operatives are facing serious financial and governance challenges.

The Department of Co-operative Development, which falls under the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, is responsible for overseeing and supporting the country’s co-operative movement. Ngwenya’s legal background and experience in the administration of companies, trusts and deceased estates could prove valuable in the department, particularly in strengthening governance, financial accountability and the protection of members’ interests.

According to her curriculum vitae, Ngwenya is currently serving as a magistrate at the Pigg’s Peak Magistrates Court, a position she has held since August 2019. In this capacity, she presides over criminal and civil matters, prepares judgments and court orders, issues warrants and supervises court personnel. Before joining the magistracy, she served as assistant master of the High Court from May 2013 to August 2019.

Ngwenya’s career in the justice system dates back to October 2005, when she joined the High Court as a transcriber and assistant registrar. She worked in that capacity until May 2013, gaining experience in court administration, record management and the handling of legal processes. Her academic qualifications include an LLB from the University of Pretoria, which she obtained between 2009 and 2012, and a Diploma in Law from the University of Swaziland, completed between 2001 and 2004.

Ngwenya’s appointment comes against the backdrop of several reported difficulties within the country’s co-operative sector. One of the cases that have raised concern is that of the Bunye Betfu Buhle Betfu Savings and Credit Co-operative, which has faced serious financial and administrative problems. The Times of Eswatini reported on October 4, 2026, that an audit had found that E19.6 million could not be properly accounted for.

The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) had intervened, with the intention of stabilising the institution, restoring financial controls and paving the way for the election of a new Board. Another co-operative that has attracted attention is the Swaziland Lutsango LwakaNgwane Multi-purpose Co-operative, which had a forensic investigation proposed following concerns over the alleged disappearance of approximately E2.5 million in members’ funds.

The Eswatini Multi-purpose Co-operative Union (ESWAMCU) has also faced questions over its administration, with a forensic audit by SNG Grant Thornton uncovering alleged maladministration, abuse of power and misuse of funds by former Board members. Ngwenya’s experience and qualifications make her well-suited to address these challenges and promote effective governance and accountability in the co-operative sector.

Key points

• Ngwenya's appointment aims to address governance and financial challenges in Eswatini's co-operative sector.
• The sector faces serious financial and administrative problems, including the Bunye Betfu Buhle Betfu Savings and Credit Co-operative's unaccounted E19.6 million.
• Ngwenya's experience in corporate law, administration of companies, trusts, and deceased estates will be valuable in her new role.