Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini National FinTech Strategy is a move aimed at protecting citizens from the risks of rapidly evolving global financial technologies while ensuring the country embraces digital innovation responsibly.
The strategy was officially unveiled by the Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, during a ceremony held at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini on Thursday, 4 December 2025. Speaking during the launch, Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) Chief Executive Officer, Ncamiso Ntshalintshali, described the new strategy as a crucial shield for Emaswati against disruptive global financial trends that have challenged consumer protection and financial stability in many countries.
A Major Milestone for Eswatini
Ntshalintshali said the FinTech Strategy marked a “landmark moment” in Eswatini’s efforts to build a modern, safe and inclusive financial ecosystem. He emphasised that the new roadmap responds directly to His Majesty’s national call for unity, agility and innovation in the face of global technological transformation.
“This strategy is a bold step, taken with clarity and national resolve,” he said, adding that Eswatini must be ready to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Balancing Innovation and Protection
According to the FSRA CEO, financial technologies offer enormous benefits, including cheaper and faster services, greater financial inclusion, and improved efficiency across sectors. However, he cautioned that without proper oversight, fintech can expose consumers to exploitation, instability and cyber risks.
“Our responsibility as a nation is to embrace innovation, but to do so safely and responsibly,” he said.
The new FinTech Strategy aims to ensure that innovative digital services evolve within a secure environment that protects consumers, strengthens confidence in digital systems, and maintains overall financial stability.
A National, Collaborative Effort
Ntshalintshali highlighted the creation of the Eswatini FinTech Working Group (EFWG) as a decisive response to the fast-changing digital financial landscape. The multi-sector team includes the Central Bank of Eswatini, FSRA, Eswatini Communications Commission, Centre for Financial Inclusion, Royal Science and Technology Park, Eswatini Revenue Service and the University of Eswatini.
He said the group was established to ensure that regulators, policymakers and industry players work together, share information and speak with a coordinated national voice on emerging technologies.
“The Strategy is a product of collective effort, institutional cooperation and forward-thinking leadership,” he noted.
Driving Inclusion, Growth and Youth Empowerment
The strategy also supports national goals such as economic recovery, SME growth, job creation and digital skills development. Ntshalintshali stressed that fintech can transform access to finance, especially for underserved groups, and strengthen the competitiveness of Eswatini’s economy.
A Call to Action
The FSRA CEO urged all stakeholders to commit to effective implementation, saying success will depend on collaboration across public and private sectors. A Technical Implementation Team inaugurated during the event will guide the rollout of reforms and ensure measurable progress.
“With great optimism for our nation, we reaffirm our commitment to building a resilient, inclusive and innovative financial sector,” he concluded.
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