By King’s Office Correspondents
His Majesty King Mswati III has stressed the importance of inclusive decision-making, promoting transparency and citizen participation.
He cited Eswatini’s Sibaya model as an example of how open dialogue between the public and government can inspire innovative and lasting policy solutions.
He also emphasized the need for economic stability, advocating the exploration of alternative financial structures that support sustainable growth and ensure economies remain flexible and robust.
Investment in sustainable sectors such as clean technology, energy, digital innovation and sustainable agriculture was deemed crucial in this regard.
Addressing the critical issue of global health, the King acknowledged the vulnerabilities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
He called for prioritizing health equity and investing in resilient health systems, including the digitization of healthcare data.
He also expressed optimism about the potential of advancements in artificial intelligence, telemedicine and biotechnology to deliver more effective and tailored healthcare.
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Eswatini’s own governance model, the King explained, is a testament to the power of harmonizing tradition with modernity.
He described the Tinkhundla system as being founded on inclusivity, consultation and community-driven development principles.
He further noted the ongoing reforms aimed at driving transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement, with a key focus on the digital transformation of governance. “
At the heart of our vision is innovation-driven development, a commitment to leveraging science and technology to accelerate economic and social progress,” he told the gathering.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The King stressed the importance of capacity building and human-centric futures, highlighting the role of education and skills development in empowering individuals to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
“Education is the great equalizer,” he stated, urging governments to invest in adaptive and inclusive educational systems that equip future generations with the skills needed to navigate evolving job markets.
He specifically mentioned digital literacy, entrepreneurship and leadership development as crucial areas of focus.
His Majesty concluded his keynote address with a call to action, reiterating Eswatini’s commitment to building a smart government that is efficient, citizen-centric and technology-driven.
He outlined the vision of harnessing digital technologies to improve service delivery and ensure all citizens have access to essential government services, prioritizing e-government solutions and leveraging the potential of artificial intelligence.
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He also shared how the Royal Science and Technology Park served as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in Eswatini, empowering youth to become job creators.
The King emphasized the importance of collaboration with the private sector to expand opportunities and invest in digital skills development for global economic growth.
“As we shape the governments of tomorrow, let us do so with boldness, collaboration and a commitment to a more inclusive, prosperous and technologically advanced world,” the King concluded.
The opening ceremony was attended by among others, Madagascar President, Andry Rajoelina, who also addressed the gathering.
Minister for Information Communication and Technology (ICT) Savannah Maziya featured as a panelist during the opening ceremony.
Also present were Ministers for Foreign Affairs, Pholile Shakantu; Commerce, Trade and Industry, Manqoba Khumalo; Education, Owen Nxumalo, Environment and Tourism Jane Mkhonta-Simelane; as well as Public Works and Transport, Chief Ndlaluhlaza.
Also addressing the summit after His Majesty the King had opened the meeting were Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina,
who spoke on leadership and national prosperity, whilst Zeljka Cvijanovic, Chairwoman of the Presidency in Bosnia and Herzegovina dealt with innovative government for a resilient future.
His Majesty the King took some time to visit other sessions of the World Governments Summit before engaging in late afternoon private bilateral meetings.
