Africa-Press – Eswatini. Government’s digital financial transformation is accelerating rapidly as the Ministry of Finance finalizes the rollout of the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMAS).
Minister Neal Rijkenberg outlined the latest progress this week, confirming that the upcoming national budget will be produced entirely through the new digital system.
Rijkenberg described IFMAS as a major milestone in modernizing Eswatini’s financial administration. The system digitizes all stages of government finance, from budgeting and procurement to approvals and final treasury payments.
“Everything becomes paperless, transparent, and traceable,” he said.
IFMAS also introduces automated tracking to reduce delays and strengthen accountability. When any document stalls in the workflow, the system issues alerts that escalate over time.
“It turns yellow, then orange, then red until supervisors are notified. It keeps everyone answerable,” Rijkenberg emphasized.
Technical teams from Rwanda are in Eswatini providing full support as ministries adapt to the new setup. Despite expected challenges, the minister noted strong commitment across government departments. “There will be issues, but we’re determined to push through. This is a phenomenal change,” he said.
One of the most significant developments is that the upcoming national budget is being drafted fully within IFMAS. The budget call circular has already been issued, and ministries are submitting their requirements directly through the system.
“We’ve started the process, and it’s moving well,” he confirmed.
Rijkenberg also elaborated on the country’s shift from a cash-based accounting system to an accrual system, which will offer deeper insight into government spending patterns and financial planning. This shift, he said, will strengthen decision-making and long-term sustainability.
Although the fiscal year ahead will be tight due to increased salary obligations, the minister expressed confidence that the efficiencies gained through digital transformation will create room for progress.
“Good management, even during constrained periods, can still drive growth,” he said.
He closed with optimism: “We are building a modern, transparent, and efficient financial system for Eswatini. This is the direction we must move in, and there’s no turning back.”
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