06 March 2025

Mbabane, Eswatini – The Honorable Minister of Information Communications and Technology (ICT), Savannah, recently met with Private Sector stakeholders at Business Eswatini to present the ICT Strategic Focus for 2025/26. The Minister emphasized the critical role of the private sector in driving Eswatini’s digital transformation, calling for collaboration to commercialize digital initiatives and ensure inclusive growth.

The meeting highlighted key achievements, including the establishment of digital services infrastructure and partnerships with global tech giants like Google, Amazon, and the UAE. These partnerships will bring advanced technology and training opportunities to Eswatini, particularly through initiatives such as the Google Learning Academies, which offer global exposure to Emaswati children at no cost.

One of the most significant developments is the introduction of a Digital ID system, which will consolidate national IDs, driver’s licenses, and other documents into a secure digital platform. This system, enhanced with biometrics, will improve cybersecurity and streamline access to government services.

Key Milestones and Future Plans

The Minister outlined several milestones for the coming years, including but not limited to:

Smart Mbabane City: By 2025, the capital will transform into a smart city, leveraging technology to enhance urban living and governance.

Fiber Optic Expansion: The government plans to extend the fiber optic network to cover most of the country, ensuring high-speed internet access nationwide.

Cybersecurity: With Eswatini scoring 84 on cybersecurity readiness, the government is committed to further strengthening this area through training and awareness programs.

The Minister also emphasized the importance of capital investments, partnerships, and youth support programs, such as internships and incubation initiatives, to build a thriving digital ecosystem. The Minister called for strong private sector collaboration, stating, “It would be great to have a partnership with the private sector and leverage resources, because all of us stand to benefit greatly from the success of this strategy.” She highlighted the need for local partnerships to ensure the sustainability of ICT initiatives, particularly in areas like cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and the commercialization of digital services.

Members of the Private Sector praised the Minister’s innovative plans, particularly the Government in Your Hand (GIYH) initiative, which aims to make government services more accessible through digital platforms. They also raised concerns about internet speed, Wi-Fi access in rural schools, and copper theft, which could hinder digital infrastructure rollout.

Addressing Challenges

The private sector urged greater investment in primary and high schools to nurture digital skills early. The Minister acknowledged these concerns, reiterating the government’s commitment to addressing them through partnerships. On internet speed and power supply, the Minister assured stakeholders that improvements are underway, with plans to increase bandwidth and ensure reliable power for digital infrastructure. The meeting concluded with a call for the private sector to join the government in driving Eswatini’s digital transformation. By working together, Eswatini can become a hub of digital innovation, creating opportunities for businesses, empowering the youth, and improving citizens’ lives. As the Minister stated, “Local partnerships will ensure that such initiatives and projects are sustainable.” The private sector has a unique opportunity to shape Eswatini’s digital future, and the time to act is now.