BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE – The Municipal Council of Mbabane has announced that the city’s Smart City initiative is progressing well, with plans to introduce free 5G internet connectivity and expand surveillance infrastructure in the capital.
The project is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and the Ministry of Information Communication and Technology as part of efforts to modernise urban services and strengthen digital connectivity in the city.
The Smart City project was officially launched last year by Prime Minister Russell Dlamini together with visiting Taiwanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung. The launch ceremony was attended by cabinet ministers, senior government officials, Taiwanese delegates and key stakeholders.
The initiative was made possible through a grant of about E38 million from the Republic of China (Taiwan) to support the development of technology-driven infrastructure in the capital city.
During the launch, the prime minister and the visiting minister activated a 3D digital bowl in a symbolic gesture to officially unveil the Smart City programme.
At the time, 57 surveillance cameras had already been installed in different parts of Mbabane as part of a broader smart infrastructure system aimed at enhancing urban security, improving traffic monitoring and strengthening city management.
In a statement, the Municipal Council said the Smart City Project Control Room was currently under development and that the city remains focused on achieving a modern capital with free 5G connectivity and fully operational surveillance systems.
Officials highlighted the strong collaboration between government ministries and strategic institutions working together to implement the project.
Key institutions involved in the initiative include the Eswatini Royal Science and Technology Park and the Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC), alongside the Department of Communications under the Ministry of ICT.
The introduction of 5G technology is expected to significantly improve internet speed and connectivity in the capital. Fifth-generation broadband networks provide high-speed data services for smartphones, digital platforms and Internet of Things technologies.
Authorities said the improved connectivity will support innovation, digital services and modern city management systems while positioning Mbabane as a technologically advanced urban centre.
The Smart City initiative forms part of broader national efforts to strengthen digital transformation and enhance public services through modern technology.
#SmartCity #Innovation #MbabaneMyCity #DigitalEswatini
Post Views: 266