Africa-Press – Eswatini. Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, has championed the role of youth in shaping digital economies across Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs).
Khumalo was speaking during a dynamic session titled “Driving Growth – Youth-Led Innovation in Digital Development for Sustainable Economies in LLDCs”, held on the sidelines of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3).
Khumalo delivered a hopeful message: “Today, we gather to reflect on an urgent but promising reality, that LLDCs, despite our geographic limitations, can unleash powerful economic growth through digital innovation, especially when that innovation is led by our youth. The transformative potential of young people in the digital space is evident.”
He noted that across LLDCs, young people are creating mobile apps, launching digital platforms, producing online content, and reshaping the way societies work and learn. However, he emphasised the need for supportive ecosystems and smart policy frameworks to ensure this potential thrives.
“This session gives us an opportunity to hear from youth, but also to learn from them,” he said. “They are not just future leaders — they are current innovators, problem-solvers, and partners in development.”
Four Key Areas for Digital Growth Khumalo outlined four strategic pillars that he believes will empower youth innovation and transform LLDC economies:
1. Investment in Digital Infrastructure
He stressed that digital connectivity is the foundation of any thriving digital economy. “In Eswatini, we are expanding our fibre optic backbone and rolling out infrastructure to support cloud computing, smart logistics, and e-government services,” said the Minister.
2. Access and Affordability
He called for urgent efforts to reduce internet and data costs and ensure rural communities are not left behind. Community ICT hubs, open-source platforms, and device-financing models were highlighted as ways to bridge the digital divide.
3. Efficient Digital Payments
For youth-led businesses to flourish, the Minister urged the creation of secure and interoperable digital payment systems. “Digitising taxation, trade, and customs is key to unlocking youth entrepreneurship and enabling seamless cross-border commerce.”
4. ICT Education and Digital Application Development
Minister Khumalo stressed that digital literacy must go beyond smartphone use. “We must prioritise coding, cybersecurity, big data, and platform development to prepare our youth for the digital future,” he said.
The Minister’s remarks received strong support from fellow delegates and youth representatives at the forum, who echoed the urgency of closing the digital gap in LLDCs. His contribution reflects Eswatini’s growing leadership in championing youth empowerment and digital transformation on the international stage.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
