By Thokozani Mazibuko
Savannah Maziya, Eswatini’s Minister of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in shaping the country’s research, science, technology, and innovation (RSTI) landscape during a timely workshop held at Tums George.
The meeting, aimed at gathering inputs for the development of a strategic plan for the Department of RSTI, underscored the commitment of the ministry to build a knowledge-based economy.
“Today marks a pivotal moment as we lay the foundation for Eswatini’s future in innovation and scientific development,” Minister Maziya stated.
“Our discussions will play a crucial role in shaping our journey toward a knowledge-based economy.
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The strategic plan will be our roadmap for the next five years, guiding our activities and ensuring they align with both national and continental goals.”
The workshop followed benchmarking exercises conducted in Rwanda, South Africa, Namibia, and Kenya, from which valuable insights into strategic planning emerged.
“The experiences from these countries illustrate how strategic planning can facilitate innovation and enhance research capabilities,” Maziya explained.
“By learning from their successes and challenges, we can craft pathways tailored to our unique context.”
Key frameworks guiding Eswatini’s RSTI efforts include the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the African Union’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024 (STISA-2024), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on Science, Technology, and Innovation.
Minister Maziya highlighted that aligning the strategic plan with these frameworks would ensure Eswatini remains an active player in the global STI landscape.
“Research and innovation are essential for sustainable development,” she noted. “They drive economic diversification and address societal challenges such as climate change, food security, and health.
Our policies will cultivate an environment where research and innovation can thrive.”
The minister reiterated the importance of the meeting’s contributions in refining the strategic plan.
“The invaluable data and perspectives from the Parliament Portfolio Committee will help us pinpoint priority areas and align our initiatives with the aspirations of our citizens,” she said.
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“Your insights ensure our strategic plan is evidence-based and reflective of the diverse needs of Emaswati.”
In her concluding remarks, Minister Maziya expressed gratitude to attendees for their support and engagement in this critical initiative.
“Together, we are laying the groundwork for a future where Eswatini leads in research, science, technology, and innovation, not just in our region but across the continent,” said Maziya.
As the meeting concluded, there was a palpable sense of determination among participants, with many optimistic feelings about Eswatini’s potential to become a hub of innovation and technological excellence.
With the collaborative efforts of stakeholders firmly established, the future looks bright for the Kingdom of Eswatini as it embarks on this strategic journey.
