Ezulwini – Principal Secretary (PS) Andreas Dlamini of the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) has called for the nation’s internet and digital demand adoption to match affordability.
Speaking at this week’s fifth Internet Governance Forum (IGF) at the Sibane Sami Hotel in Ezulwini, through the EBIS Director, Sabelo Dlamini, the PS stated that the nation continues to see increases in internet users.
In fact, the Eswatini Communication Commission’s (ESCCOM) current monitoring of digital services reveals an expanding digital adoption pathway.
According to Dlamini, “these advancements are encouraging, but they remind us that coverage, affordability, and digital readiness must keep pace with rising demand.”
The IGF, which was hosted by ESCCOM and had the theme “Building Digital Governance Together,” gave stakeholders in the digital sector a chance to consider emerging and emerging issues.
This year, the emphasis is on a cooperative, inclusive, and responsible framework for the governance of digital technologies, data, and online spaces.
Dlamini reminded stakeholders that digital governance involves shared responsibilities across the public, corporate, and civil society sectors in addition to regulations.
Under Sustainable and Responsible Innovation, Eswatini is committed to enabling transformation that is sustainable, meaningful and citizen impacting, Dlamini said.
“Our policy approach should be evidence‑based and consultative to ensure that regulation does not stifle innovation but stimulates digital e-commerce and research,” he said.
The ministry prioritises universal access to the net. Some national connectivity initiatives are supported through the Universal Service and Access Fund. The fund helps reach the last‑mile communities, establish community access points and expand public Wi‑Fi hubs.
The ministry also commits to:
- accelerate national connectivity projects and ensure transparent deployment of Universal Service and Access Fund resources;
- sustain investments in digital skills, local content and public service digitisation;
- strengthen cybersecurity readiness and public awareness programmes; and
- Maintain an open, consultative policy environment that invites partnership and accountability.
“These interventions are aimed at improving broadband penetration, widening access for women and youth, and strengthening platforms for local content and services.
“Digital government is central to our agenda. We are accelerating the digitisation and interoperability of public services so citizens can access them faster, more transparently and more user centredly. Priority services include e‑health referrals, digital licences and streamlined business registration—all designed to reduce administrative burdens and extend service reach to citizens distant from physical offices,” Dlamini said.
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