Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Minister of Information Communications and Technology Hon. Savannah Maziya says digital transformation is not just a goal it is a national necessity.
According to the Minister it boosts efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery. It also enables innovation, supports data-driven decisions, and helps expand access to global markets and better jobs.
The Minister revealed this today July 31,2025 during the official launch of the Eswatini Economic Update held at the UN House in Mbabane. The event was hosted in collaboration with the Eswatini Government and the World Bank Group.
Government is implementing critical reforms to lead this shift. New legislation includes the Cybersecurity Bill, RSTP Bill of 2023, E-Commerce Strategy, and Critical Infrastructure Bill. These will guide safe, inclusive, and sustainable digital growth.
Massive investments in infrastructure are already underway. With World Bank support, fibre optic is being rolled out countrywide, including rural areas. Eswatini has also expanded international bandwidth from 47 Gbps to 72 Gbps.
Smart digital projects are taking shape. Mbabane now has a 5G-enabled Smart City with AI-powered cameras and free Wi-Fi. Free connectivity has also been extended to all 48 tinkhundla and over 60 schools across the country.
The “Government in Your Hand” platform has introduced 11 online services including scholarship applications, license renewals, and company registration. Government aims to introduce 90 more services in the next 36 months.
Health, education, and key departments are being digitised. Systems such as deeds registration, road permits, and police training have been launched. New platforms for social protection, e-payments, livestock tracking, and digital addresses are in development.
To build capacity, over 50 teachers, 108 girls, and members of parliament have been trained in ICT and emerging technologies. Libraries and youth centres are also being used to teach digital skills.
The country will launch a coding program for 300 000 emaSwati this August. Global partners including Google, India, and the UAE are supporting training, innovation, and job creation.
The ministry warns that failure to transform digitally will hurt Eswatini’s competitiveness. Risks include rising unemployment, loss of talent, and digital dependency.
They urge the World Bank and government to act urgently. With support, Eswatini can become a leader in digital innovation and fulfil His Majesty’s first-world vision.
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