Mbabane- The former Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Lutfo Dlamini has come out in strong support of efforts to bring global technology giant Google to Eswatini, describing the initiative as a transformative opportunity for the country.
The former Minister’s remarks follow recent controversy surrounding a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reportedly signed between the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT), led by Minister Savannah Maziya, and Google.
The MoU aimed at implementing the “government in your hand” program and as well as digital monetization and enhancing Eswatini’s digital ecosystem.
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini recently dismissed the MoU, stating verbally that even Google was not aware of such an agreement and warning that the arrangement could pose a potential threat to national security.
However, in a dramatic turn, Dlamini later acknowledged in a written submission that the MoU had in fact been approved by Cabinet, a position that came after the Attorney General Sifiso Khumalo reportedly refuted his earlier claims and confirmed Maziya consulted the cabinet and the AG’s officer prior to signing.
Amid this backdrop, the former legislator urged emaSwati to remain focused on the long-term benefits of attracting global investors, praising His Majesty King Mswati III for what he termed “giant steps” in positioning the country as a destination for major international companies.
“We are a small economy, but small is beautiful,” he said, highlighting Eswatini’s track record of hosting multinational firms that serve markets beyond its borders.
He pointed to companies such as Coca-Cola, which produces in the Kingdom for distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, and YKK Zippers in Matsapha, a Japanese manufacturer supplying regional and international markets, as evidence that Eswatini can successfully accommodate global industry leaders.
According to Dlamini, bringing a company like Google into the country would significantly boost the digital economy, create employment opportunities, particularly for young people, and stimulate innovation in the technology sector.
“This will help our young entrepreneurs and create jobs in the IT sector,” he said, adding that such investments are critical in tackling unemployment in a rapidly evolving global economy.
He also commended Minister Maziya for her role in advancing the initiative, describing her as a leader with strong international business connections capable of securing strategic partnerships. He further acknowledged the involvement of other government figures, including the current Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Trade Mancoba Khumalo.
Addressing criticism surrounding the MoU, the former politician dismissed negative sentiments as part of the natural challenges that accompany major national developments.
“When a woman is about to give birth to a beautiful baby, there are always labour pains. These are labour pains. We should focus on the outcome,” he noted.
Meanwhile, speaking during a workshop on the ratification of international legal instruments held at Happy Valley yesterday, Minister Maziya cautioned against speaking negatively about global technology companies, warning that such rhetoric could place the country in a precarious position.
Maziya noted that in large committees, issues are not always addressed swiftly due to differing views among members.
Despite the uncertainty, the former minister expressed optimism about the country’s direction, particularly as His Majesty marks 40 years on the throne, noting that initiatives such as the proposed Google partnership could play a key role in shaping Eswatini’s economic future.
“In this era, where unemployment is a major challenge, focusing on IT and technology is exactly what the country needs,” he said.
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