Africa-Press – Eswatini. Serving in the public sector has taught Minister of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT), Savannah Maziya, one invaluable lesson: patience.
The minister shared these insights on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, at the Ministry of ICT Conference Room in Mbabane during a meet-and-greet session with journalists. Attendees included members of professional organisations such as the Eswatini National Association of Journalists (SNAJ) and the Eswatini Editors Forum (EEF). During the discussion, Maziya reflected on her experiences over the past two years in office and outlined her aspirations for the remaining three years of her tenure.
From Workaholic to Patient Leader
“I am naturally a workaholic and firmly believe in meritocracy,” Maziya said. “I have always felt that the best person for a task should be allowed to execute it to the best of their abilities. However, I have come to realise that not everyone in the public sector operates at the same pace or intensity. Learning to understand and work with others at their level has been an essential part of my growth.”
The minister emphasised that patience has allowed her to collaborate more effectively with her team and the wider public service. By understanding colleagues’ perspectives and starting from their level, she believes she can guide initiatives that ultimately benefit Eswatini and its citizens.
Honoured to Serve the Nation
Maziya described it as a great honour to have been called upon to serve the nation in 2023 by His Majesty King Mswati III. She reiterated her commitment to advancing the information technology sector in the country, which she believes will foster growth in both the public and private sectors. Among her key goals is the expansion of Eswatini’s optical fibre network—a project she believes will transform the country’s telecommunications landscape.
Strengthening Media Partnerships
The minister also expressed her delight at meeting journalists in person, praising the revival of SNAJ as a crucial step for the media industry. While acknowledging the competitive nature of media houses in Eswatini, Maziya stressed the importance of creating a professional home where journalists can share ideas and support one another. She highlighted her ministry’s willingness to collaborate with media organisations to enhance the sector, which she described as vital for national development.
Promoting Eswatini to the World
Beyond media engagement, Maziya urged journalists to actively contribute to promoting Eswatini as an attractive destination for investment and tourism. “Individuals may face personal challenges, but these should not overshadow the positive image of our country,” she said. She drew a comparison with the United States, noting that Americans proudly market their country despite its own issues. “They want the world to see their nation at its best, and this works to their advantage,” she added.
The Power of the Pen
The minister reminded the media of the significant influence they wield through their reporting. “Journalists hold the power of the pen, which can either build or undermine a country,” she stated. Maziya encouraged the media to highlight and support government and private-sector initiatives, even when early efforts face setbacks. She emphasised that mocking failures, particularly among young entrepreneurs, could discourage the next generation—the future of the nation—from pursuing their ideas.
Vision for Innovation and Growth
Highlighting her ministry’s plans, Maziya shared that several initiatives aimed at improving Eswatini’s technological infrastructure and digital capabilities were underway. She stressed the importance of collaboration between government, media, and private enterprises to ensure these projects succeed. Her vision, she said, is not only to advance technology but to create an environment where innovation is nurtured and celebrated.
Patience as a Leadership Principle
Maziya’s reflections also touched on personal growth, acknowledging that her time in public service has reshaped her approach to leadership. She admitted that while her natural inclination is towards speed and efficiency, learning to adapt to different working styles has enhanced her ability to achieve meaningful outcomes. “Patience is not just about waiting; it’s about understanding, guiding, and growing together,” she remarked.
Partnering with Media for Nation-Building
Her message to journalists was clear: their role goes beyond reporting—they are essential partners in nation-building. By presenting accurate, constructive, and encouraging stories, the media can inspire confidence, attract investment, and support a culture of innovation and progress. Maziya stressed that in this interconnected era, how Eswatini is perceived globally can have a direct impact on its development prospects.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
In conclusion, Minister Maziya’s engagement with the media underscored a broader vision of inclusive growth, technological advancement, and strategic patience. Her approach reflects a commitment not only to improving Eswatini’s ICT landscape but also to cultivating a collaborative, forward-looking culture across the public sector. Through patience, understanding, and partnership, she hopes to pave the way for sustainable development and lasting positive change in the country.
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