GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF ESWATINI
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND TECHNOLOGY
ESWATINI LAUNCHES THE DIGITAL READINESS ASSESSMENT REPORT 2024, PAVING THE WAY FOR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
The Ministry of Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) has launched the Eswatini Digital Readiness Assessment Report 2024, a foundational document that charts Eswatini’s path towards comprehensive digital transformation, aligned with national development priorities. Developed in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), this report provides a detailed overview of the country’s current digital infrastructure, accessibility, and digital literacy, forming a roadmap for the country's Eswatini Digitalization Strategy (2024–2028), named “Governemnt in Your Hand“ programme.
The Honourable Minister of ICT, addressing the attendees, highlighted the significance of the report towards the country’s digital transformation agenda. ‘The findings in this report are key to the successful realisation of the Eswatini Government Digital Strategy, as they provide fundamental insights into the digital public infrastructure foundational elements that need to be strengthened as we pave the way for integrated digital services.” The insights from this assessment will help craft policies and frameworks that support our national digital transformation agenda. It is encouraging that the findings of this DRA are aligned with the Government in Your Hand Strategy.’
The report, supported by the UNDP Digital Office, assessed essential digital infrastructure gaps, such as connectivity and public digital infrastructure, accessibility of public services digitally, affordability, digital literacy and strengthened digital ecosystem. It also emphasises the importance of robust regulatory frameworks to ensure secure digital transactions and foster a trustworthy digital environment.
With the support of UNDP, Eswatini is making steady progress towards enhancing its digital readiness and ecosystem. Recently, Eswatini participated in the Global Digital Public Infrastructure Summit in Egypt, hosting a GovStack introductory training for developers, solution architects and business analysts across government and the private sector. Further, a comprehensive GovStack training session is scheduled to commence on 25 November, empowering Government and private sector teams to build and deploy digital services aligned with international best practices.
UNDP Eswatini Resident Representative, present at the launch, emphasised the significance of this collaboration. “UNDP is committed to supporting Eswatini’s digital ambitions. The Digital Readiness Assessment Report is more than an evaluation; it is a blueprint for action that outlines how Eswatini can leverage digitalization for sustainable development and inclusive growth. Our shared goal is to ensure that no one is left behind in this digital journey, and UNDP is honored to support the Government of Eswatini through technical and strategic partnerships. We look forward to working closely with the Ministry and local stakeholders to build capacity and bring this digital vision to life.”
The Ministry extends its gratitude to UNDP Eswatini, the Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESERPARC), and all partners involved in shaping the report. The dedication shown highlights the shared vision for a digitally inclusive Eswatini, one that harnesses technology to enhance public services, bridge the digital divide, and boost economic growth.
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Ministry of Information, Communications, and Technology
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