Matsapha – His Majesty King Mswati III has declared that agility, digital transformation and strong partnerships are central to Eswatini’s drive toward a modern and citizen-focused public service. The King’s message was delivered by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Prince Simelane, during the official opening of the 44th AAPAM Roundtable Conference.
Speaking on behalf of His Majesty, Prince Simelane said this year’s conference theme, “Agile Public Administration, Partnership and Digital Transformation for Citizen-Centric Service Delivery,” aligns directly with Eswatini’s development priorities. He said the National Development Plan, the Nkwe Programme of Action and the Grand Plan for National Transformation collectively outline the Kingdom’s ambition to build an efficient, inclusive and technology-driven governance system.
He noted that agility in public administration is essential for driving economic diversification, improving human development and strengthening institutions. The Nkwe Programme of Action, he said, seeks to accelerate digital reforms and promote collaboration with the private sector and development partners, while the Grand Plan for National Transformation sets the vision for a digitally enabled and knowledge-driven society.
His Majesty highlighted the centrality of Eswatini’s monarchical democracy, the Tinkhundla system, which blends modern governance practices with traditional values of buntfu, culture and respect. At the heart of this system is Sibaya, the People’s Parliament, where citizens form the highest advisory body to the King.
His Majesty reminded delegates that during the most recent Sibaya held in October and November 2023, emaSwati called for improved service delivery, faster and more transparent government processes, equal access to opportunities and a more responsive public service. He said the AAPAM conference provides a platform to turn these national concerns into practical reforms through shared learning from African states and global partners.
The King stressed that public service excellence is not optional for Eswatini but a national imperative. A well-performing public sector, he said, boosts investor confidence, enhances social development and strengthens the country’s resilience. Above all, it ensures that every liSwati receives timely, efficient and compassionate service.
His Majesty’s message highlighted several national programmes driving digital transformation. These include the National Data Centre housed at the Royal Science and Technology Park, which supports government digital services, and the ongoing expansion of the National Broadband Network to improve connectivity across the nation.
He added that the Universal Access and Service Fund under ESCCOM has upgraded ICT infrastructure in schools and extended free internet access to a number of Tinkhundla centres. Eswatini is also intensifying accountability through the Performance Management System and expanding e-government services through the Government-In-Your-Hand programme.
The King pointed to the introduction of e-procurement, e-customs, e-taxation services and the Business One-Stop Shop as key steps toward improving the ease of doing business. In the health sector, digital systems such as the Client Management Information System, Logistics and Warehouse Management platforms, Lab Information System and digitally managed emergency services are already strengthening service delivery.
He also noted efforts to equip the youth with digital skills to prepare them for the technology-driven economy the country is working to build.
“These initiatives form the foundation for the agile and responsive public administration our people deserve,” His Majesty said. “They demonstrate that digital transformation is becoming a lived reality for citizens and businesses.”
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