5th Eswatini Internet Governance Forum builds inclusive digital future

By Delisa Magagula

The Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT), in partnership with the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM), hosted the 5th Eswatini Internet Governance Forum (IGF).

Hosted under the theme, ‘Building Digital Governance Together’. The annual forum serves as a national platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing on internet governance and the development of the digital ecosystem in Eswatini.

The event brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, industry, academia, and the private sector to discuss policies, strategies, and practices that ensure a safe, inclusive, and accessible digital environment for all Emaswati.

According to ESCCOM, the event aligns with international efforts to promote an internet that is open, secure, and beneficial to society while ensuring that national digital policies reflect the voices of diverse stakeholders.

The Principal Secretary of the Ministry of ICT, Andreas Dlamini emphasised that the forum remains a critical platform for participatory engagement, noting that digital governance is a shared responsibility.

“Digital governance is not only about rules; it is about shared responsibility across government, industry, civil society, and citizens. Our digital future must be built together transparently, inclusively, and responsibly, ensuring that every Swati benefits from the opportunities the digital era brings,” he said.

The forum featured a series of panel discussions and presentations covering key topics in Eswatini’s digital agenda. Discussions included digital inclusion, ensuring that marginalised groups, rural communities, and women have equitable access to digital tools and services.

Experts stressed the importance of expanding connectivity infrastructure and reducing barriers to Internet access, noting that broadband penetration and affordability remain critical to national development.

Cybersecurity and data protection formed another central theme. Participants highlighted the need for strong frameworks to protect citizen data, prevent cybercrime, and ensure trust in online services.

Panellists emphasised that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, requiring coordinated efforts between the government, the private sector, and civil society.

“We must create a secure and trustworthy digital environment. Protecting personal data is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a foundation for public confidence in digital services,” said a cybersecurity expert from the Ministry.

The promotion of innovation and emerging technologies was also a major focus, with discussions exploring how Eswatini can leverage digital tools to foster entrepreneurship, improve government services, and drive economic growth.

Speakers highlighted initiatives in e-commerce, digital payment systems, and smart agriculture, noting that technology adoption can empower citizens and enhance national competitiveness.

Furthermore, the forum included panels on responsible and inclusive digital transformation, which emphasised that digital growth must not leave behind any segment of society.

Meanwhile, experts underscored the importance of developing local content, digital literacy programs, and training initiatives to ensure that citizens have the skills and knowledge to participate fully in the digital economy.

ESCCOM CEO, Mvilawempi Dlamini, noted that the IGF provides a platform for shared understanding of Internet governance and its role in national development.

“This 5th edition of the IGF seeks to promote a shared understanding of how the Internet can be governed and leveraged for national development. We must ensure Eswatini’s digital transformation remains safe, inclusive, and empowering for every citizen,” Dlamini said.

He stressed that collaboration across all sectors is key to implementing effective policies and building trust in digital services.

In addition, the forum also examined the growth of the e-commerce ecosystem in Eswatini, highlighting opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to reach new markets online.

Panellists noted that strengthening regulatory frameworks, ensuring secure online payment systems, and providing training for businesses are essential to creating a sustainable digital economy.

In addition to policy discussions, participants reviewed national efforts to expand connectivity infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to ensure that all citizens have reliable access to the Internet.

Meanwhile the Ministry of ICT reiterated its commitment to accelerate national connectivity projects, develop local digital content, and improve government digital services to enhance accessibility and efficiency.

Furthermore, the Ministry highlighted ongoing initiatives to strengthen cybersecurity awareness among citizens. Programs include public education campaigns, partnerships with schools and universities, and engagement with the private sector to improve understanding of digital risks and safe practices.

Panellists further emphasised the importance of inclusive policymaking, encouraging the participation of youth, women, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups in the digital ecosystem.

They noted that policy development should reflect the needs and perspectives of all citizens to ensure equitable benefits from digital growth.

The forum concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing. Participants agreed that continuous engagement across sectors is essential to achieve a digital ecosystem that is secure, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Eswatini.

The Ministry of ICT reaffirmed that the government remains focused on building an Internet ecosystem that is transparent, accountable, and beneficial for all Emaswati.