By Ncaba Ntshakala
A year of ambition, partnership, and innovation has culminated in what Prime Minister Russell
Dlamini calls the “perfect birthday gift” for His Majesty King Mswati III , the official handover of
Eswatini’s first government 5G Network and the Mbabane Smart City Project.
Speaking at the Mbabane Municipal Council, Dlamini celebrated the E38 million Taiwan-
supported initiative as a major leap forward in Eswatini’s digital transformation, and a shining
example of the enduring friendship between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China
(Taiwan).
“This achievement is a proud outcome of the long-standing and fruitful partnership between the
Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China (Taiwan),” Dlamini said.
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“Today, just 12 monthssince the project was commissioned at Hilton Garden Inn on 14 May 2024, we stand incelebration of its successful completion, fully aligned with the ‘Nkwe’ directive by His Majesty
King Mswati III.”
The project features the installation of a state-of-the-art control centre, advanced real-time
surveillance systems, and smart technology components that will significantly upgrade the
capital’s safety, mobility, and infrastructure management.
The initiative, made possible through aE38 million (US$2 million) grant from Taiwan, places Eswatini on the global map of smart governance.
“We are especially inspired by the way Taiwan has embraced and supported our national vision
of becoming a digitally empowered society, aligning with the 4th Industrial Revolution,” the Prime
Minister said.
“With the deployment of this 5G network, offering unprecedented speed, reliability,
and capacity — we are laying a solid foundation for real-time data processing and connectivity,
which are essential components for any smart society.”
rime Minister expressed optimism about the broader impact of the project beyond Mbabane.
He revealed that this model will soon be replicated in Manzini, Matsapha, Nhlangano, and
Siteki, in response to national feedback shared during the Sibaya dialogues.
“As expressed by emaSwati at Sibaya, this model will be replicated in cities and towns across all regions of the country — ensuring that no liSwati is left behind in this dispensation.”
Again, referencing the siSwati idiom, he added, “Ambassador Liang is now acquainted with the
idiom ‘Ingoma lemnandzi iyaphindvwa’ meaning a good song (initiative) must be repeated. We
are, therefore, eager to expand this initiative, with your good partnership.
This will foster nationwide innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy, particularly among our youth.”
In terms of public safety, the Prime Minister highlighted how the city’s new infrastructure will
enhance citizen well-being through intelligent monitoring systems, disaster preparedness tools,
and inclusive access.
“I have been informed of the installation of a state-of-the-art control centreand advanced real-time surveillance infrastructure in the city, which I am keen to tour right after this.
These innovations will significantly enhance public safety and security. Further
developments, such as water and weather sensors at Mbabane River and free public Wi-Fi, will
support disaster preparedness and expand digital inclusion.”
Dlamini also made a major reference to the symbolic timing of the project, aligning with the
national celebration of His Majesty King Mswati III’s 57th birthday.
“This moment is even morespecial as it coincides with His Majesty’s 57th birthday celebration. Of all the gifts he may
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receive, this one — symbolising innovation, progress, and shared vision — will surely stand out.
To that, we say: Bayethe, Wena Waphakathi. Lunwele Loludze, Wena Wekunene.”
Furthermore, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that Eswatini’s embrace of smart
technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things would propel the
country into a future of sustainable digital growth.
He applauded the Government of Taiwan for their support and commended the collective effort of all the ministries and institutions involved,
including the Ministry of ICT, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Eswatini Posts
and Telecommunications Corporation, the Royal Science and Technology Park, and
implementation partner International Integrated Systems Inc.
“Let this moment remind us of what is possible when we work together in the spirit of ‘Nkwe.’ Let
us carry this energy into every ministry, every project, and every region, to transform our
Kingdom into the thriving digital Nation we all envision,” Dlamini said, before officially handing
over the 5G network and smart city system.
