GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF ESWATINI
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND TECHNOLOGY
Ministry of Information, Communications, and Technology Renews MoU with U.S. Embassy to Advance Information Access, Innovation, and Digital Inclusion – American Spaces
The Ministry of Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) of the Kingdom of Eswatini has proudly officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Embassy of the United States to strengthen and expand the American Corners initiative within Eswatini. This partnership reaffirms a shared commitment to empower emaSwati through enhanced access to information, promotion of youth engagement, entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and the stimulation of cultural and educational exchanges.
Delivering his remarks at the signing ceremony, Principal Secretary, Phesheya Dube stated: “It is key to highlight that, this cooperation aligns perfectly with the Ministry of ICT’s Digital Transformation Agenda, "Government in Your Hand" initiative, which aims to ensure emaSwati can access information and services anytime, anywhere. These centres enhance digital literacy, contributing to bridging the digital divide, promoting a more informed and inclusive society.’’
The American Corners established over the past 20 years in collaboration with Eswatini National Library Services situated in the Manzini and Mbabane National Libraries, have made significant impact and have become transformative hubs of knowledge, innovation, and personal development.
The partnership between the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology continues to benefit emaSwati, particularly the youth. American Spaces have become vibrant hubs for youth engagement, this is evident in the rise in visits from 21,556 to 33,902 visits in 2024. It is focused on developing the next generation of leaders, providing mentorship opportunities, entrepreneurship workshops, digital literacy and skills development, creativity and innovation, empowering young people to adapt to the latest trends and thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape and contribute to the economic development of the country.
‘’This Memorandum of Understanding reaffirms the U.S. Mission’s dedication to impactful engagement and programs through our American Spaces. It symbolizes our commitment to building bridges between the United States and Eswatini, particularly for the youth of this nation’’- Charge d’Affaires, Caitlin Piper, representing the U.S. Embassy, remarked.
The Ministry of ICT expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the U.S. Embassy for their steadfast support and looks forward to continued collaboration in uplifting young people to lead, innovate and inspire change within their communities.
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