By Kwanele Dhladhla
Minister of Information, Communication and Technology Savannah Maziya has assured the nation that security of national data will not be compromised by the country’s partnership with Google.
Eswatini recently became the first African country to embark on a significant partnership with Google to drive its digital transformation and economic growth.
The collaboration aims to integrate Google’s advanced tools into the nation’s ‘Government in Your Hand’ initiative.
This initiative was part of a broader trend of African nations embracing digital transformation to stimulate economic development.
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Google has been instrumental in supporting such efforts across the continent. In 2021, the company announced a US$1 billion investment fund for Africa, targeting areas like digital transformation for businesses and support for entrepreneurs.
“This partnership is a step towards positioning Eswatini as a leader in the digital economy, unlocking opportunities for our people, especially the youth,” Maziya said at the launch event themed ‘Innovating Together:
Strategic Partnerships for Eswatini’s Digital Transformation and Economic Prosperity’.
During Senate Portfolio Committee budget debate for the 2025/2026 financial year, Senator Fezeka Dlamini sought assurance from the minister on whether national data would not be compromised since globally countries endeavor to keep data within their borders.
In response, Maziya said; “the ministry has signed a non-disclosure agreement which is a standard global practice.
This makes access granted on a need to know basis, and is normally deactivated post implementation.”
The senator went on to applaud the ministry for inculcating a culture of cyber security among Emaswati through an intentional programme.
She however inquired whether there was any provision to manage the flow of digital information particularly in the digital space.
Maziya said the ministry was currently working on finalising the Access to Information Bill.
“This bill will address the flow of information in the digital space,” Maziya explained.
The minister when launching the programme said the collaboration symbolised a shared vision of leveraging innovation to transform Eswatini into a digital hub that competes globally.
“With 70 per cent of our population being youth, this initiative lays the foundation for creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and accelerating sustainable economic development,” Maziya said.
In line with these objectives, Google launched various programmes to bolster digital skills and innovation.
Tech Africa reported that the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, for example, had provided mentorship and resources to numerous startups, aiding in the development of solutions across sectors like fintech, health-tech, and artificial intelligence.
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Moreover, Google’s commitment to enhancing internet accessibility was evident through infrastructure projects like the Equiano subsea cable, aimed at increasing Africa’s internet capacity.
It was noted that such initiatives were crucial for countries like Eswatini, where improved connectivity could lead to significant socio-economic benefits.
The partnership between Google and the Southern African country also underscores the potential for smaller African nations to leverage technology for development.
By adopting digital tools and fostering innovation, these countries can address unique challenges and create opportunities for their populations.
