By Ncaba Ntshakala
Minister of ICT Savannah Maziya has highlighted the transformative power of digitalization in Eswatini, citing its pivotal role in fostering economic growth, improving service delivery, and empowering citizens.
Speaking at the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) Digitalisation Roadmap Symposium, Maziya outlined how the government’s commitment to technological innovation aligns with national development priorities.
The symposium was also attended by Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg and other notable figures.
Maziya expressed confidence in the potential of the ERS Digital Transformation Roadmap, which dovetails seamlessly with the Government in Your Hand Initiative.
This initiative seeks to modernize and simplify how citizens interact with government services, ensuring that these services are delivered with dignity, accessibility, and efficiency.
It was said that by leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence, the government aims to create secure and innovative systems that benefit both citizens and businesses.
One of the central themes of Maziya’s address was the convenience brought by digitalization.
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She emphasized how modernizing processes, such as company registration, passport applications, and border operations, significantly enhance the lives of emaSwati.
“This transformation is about bringing convenience and dignity to our people,” she stated. Maziya further highlighted that these advancements make government services more accessible and efficient.
Moreover, economic growth was another focal point of her remarks. Maziya explained how digitalisation removes barriers that hinder business operations, accelerates the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and creates employment opportunities.
“By leveraging technology, we attract businesses, empower entrepreneurs, and open doors for innovation,” she said.
Furthermore, the Minister cited the importance of preparing young people for the digital future. She explained that engaging youth in the digitalization process not only empowers them but also ensures that they are active contributors to the country’s economic transformation.
Collaboration, according to Maziya, is another key factor in Eswatini’s digital journey. She emphasized breaking silos and fostering partnerships between government entities, the private sector, and development partners to accelerate progress.
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The government, she noted, is actively working to enhance connectivity across the country. With optic fibre rollouts and infrastructure improvements, schools, clinics, and Tinkhundla centres are being equipped to become part of this digital revolution.
Maziya also highlighted the innovative potential of blockchain and artificial intelligence, noting their role in the Government in Your Hand Initiative.
These technologies, she explained, are pivotal in creating secure, efficient systems that enhance the user experience while ensuring data integrity and reliability.
