Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) will host the 27th Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Electoral Commissions Forum of SADC countries (ECF-SADC) from 1 to 5 December 2025, marking a historic return of the event to Eswatini since 2006.
The conference brings together Electoral Management Bodies (EMBs) from across the Southern African region to strengthen democracy, promote electoral integrity, and share knowledge on contemporary election challenges.
The conference was officially launched today at Happy Valley, where Reverend Sipho Tembe, Deputy Chairperson of the EBC, said the AGC provides an important platform for collaboration and learning among EMBs. “This conference presents an opportunity for Eswatini and the region to explore the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in elections, harnessing technology to enhance transparency, efficiency, and public trust,” he stated.
The AGC will welcome 94 delegates, including representatives from Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Key regional and international partners, such as the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), will also participate, bringing expertise on electoral best practices and innovations.
The theme, “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Elections: Threats and Opportunities,” comes at a time when the EBC has already automated its voter registration process using a biometric system. The move aims to reduce election fraud, strengthen equal suffrage, and optimise electoral resources. Reverend Tembe emphasized that Eswatini is committed to delivering free, fair, credible, and peaceful elections, leveraging technology to enhance inclusivity and democratic governance.
Eswatini last hosted the AGC in 2006, when the conference was officially opened by His Majesty the King. The 2025 AGC signals a major milestone for the country, highlighting its leadership role in promoting democracy in the SADC region. “We are optimistic that this conference will be a turning point, a moment when AI is embraced not as a threat, but as a tool to deepen democracy and genuine elections,” Reverend Tembe said.
Preparations for the conference are already at an advanced stage, reflecting the EBC’s dedication to ensuring a successful and impactful event. The AGC is expected to provide actionable insights that will strengthen electoral processes in Eswatini and across the SADC region.
This year’s conference not only underscores Eswatini’s commitment to democratic principles but also showcases its growing capacity to host significant regional events, reinforcing its image as a hub for political dialogue and innovation in electoral management.
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