By Thokozani Mazibuko
In the Second Quarter Performance Report, Minister of Information, Communications and Technology (MICT), Savannah Maziya highlighted the ongoing financial turmoil plaguing the Eswatini Television Authority (ESTVA).
The report outlines the significant cash flow challenges that have led to the institution’s failure to remit pension funds and retirement benefits as they fall due, among other critical statutory payments.
According to Minister Maziya, the financial constraints have hindered ESTVA’s ability to timely compensate suppliers, resulting in operational disruptions.
The lack of viewership data is a major hindrance in advertising sales business growth,” she emphasized, underlining the direct impact of these financial issues on the authority’s revenue-generating capabilities.
The Minister also raised concerns regarding the authority’s operational inefficiencies due to insufficient equipment and a lack of critical software necessary for business operations.
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Furthermore, she disclosed that the organisation cannot fund the requested 15% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for its employees, which has led to an unresolved dispute certified by the Commission for Mediation and Arbitration (CMAC).
This development sets the stage for a possible looming strike action, as workers express dissatisfaction with the authority’s ongoing financial management.
In addition to these challenges, Minister Maziya pointed out that ESTVA lacks adequate vehicles for both internal and external assignments, forcing the authority to rely heavily on rented vehicles to meet its operational needs.
Founded in 1978 originally as the Swaziland Television Broadcasting Corporation (STBC), ESTVA was established under the Swaziland Television Authority Act of 1983, transforming into its current structure.
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As a government-owned entity classified as a Category A Public Enterprise under the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology, the authority is tasked with providing impartial, informative news and entertainment, promoting Eswatini’s cultural identity both regionally and globally.
It should be noted that with the spotlight on the financial hurdles facing ESTVA, stakeholders are urged to engage with the government to foster solutions that will stabilize the institution and ensure that it continues to serve the public effectively.
