Government has intensified efforts to position Eswatini as a regional hub for innovation, technology and entrepreneurship, with a renewed focus on developing home-grown solutions and strengthening the country’s participation in the global knowledge economy.
This was revealed by Minister of Information, Communications and Technology Savannah Maziya during the launch of National Science Month 2026 at the University of Eswatini Sports Emporium on Monday.
Maziya said the Kingdom’s Digital Eswatini Agenda was designed to ensure the country participates meaningfully in the rapidly evolving global economy driven by science, technology and innovation. 
“Through the Digital Eswatini Agenda, government is intentionally positioning the Kingdom to participate meaningfully in the global knowledge economy and emerge as a regional hub for innovation, technology and entrepreneurship,” she said.
The Minister noted that advancements in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, automation and digital technologies were transforming economies worldwide, making investment in science and innovation increasingly important.
She stressed that Eswatini’s ambitions extend beyond simply adopting technologies developed elsewhere.
“Our goal is not merely to consume technology developed elsewhere, but to nurture innovators, researchers and entrepreneurs who will create solutions for Eswatini, Africa and the world,” she said.
Maziya said innovation should be used to address practical challenges facing citizens while creating jobs, attracting investment and improving service delivery.
She linked the vision to government’s broader digital transformation initiatives, including the Government in Your Hand programme, which seeks to make public services more accessible through digital platforms.
The Minister further highlighted cooperation between Eswatini and South Africa in strengthening the country’s science and innovation ecosystem.
She said the partnership had already contributed to the development of key frameworks and institutions, including the National Bioeconomy Strategy, the National Research Council Act and the Royal Science and Technology Park Act.
National Science Month 2026 is being held under the theme “Accelerating STEM and Digital Transformation for a Resilient Economy and Enhanced Quality of Life” and runs from June 8 to 12 across the country’s four regions.
Government expects the programme to reach more than 3,000 learners, researchers, educators, innovators and policymakers as part of efforts to build a competitive digital economy powered by local talent, research and innovation.
