Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) today hosted the National Archives Day Commemoration at the National Archives in Lobamba, bringing together archivists, researchers, innovators, and government officials to celebrate Eswatini’s rich documentary heritage.
The event, organized through the Eswatini National Archives and Records Service (ENARS), was held under the theme “Archives Accessible, Archives for Everyone.”
The commemoration was graced by His Royal Highness Prince Bandzile, Minister of ICT Savannah Maziya, Members of Parliament, and the Hhohho Regional Administrator Princess Tsandzile Dlamini, who previously served as an archivist at the National Archives. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and making archives accessible to all Emaswati.
In her welcome remarks, Princess Tsandzile highlighted that archives are not just collections of old papers but “guardians of history” that preserve the nation’s identity. She said access to archives empowers people to connect with their past, enriches cultural understanding, and fosters belonging. She further emphasized that digitisation helps break geographical barriers, allowing traditions and heritage to reach global audiences while safeguarding fragile documents for future generations.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Savannah Maziya underscored the government’s commitment to making archival information easily accessible through technology. “Technology allows us to tear down the barriers that once made archives seem distant or inaccessible. Through digitisation, we are making it possible for someone in Siteki, Mbabane, or even outside our borders to access historical records without ever stepping into a physical archive,” she said.
The Minister added that the initiative aligns with Eswatini’s Digital Transformation Agenda and Sustainable Development Goal 16.10, which promotes public access to information. The event also featured expert presentations and panel discussions exploring the importance of archives in nation-building, education, and cultural preservation.
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