Mbabane – The Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) is training Change Agents from across government ministries and institutions as part of preparations for the implementation of the E1.2 billion (USD65 million) Eswatini Digitization Project, which is funded through a loan from the World Bank.
The three-day Change Agent Training Workshop, which started on Tuesday at Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane, is equipping participants with the skills needed to support the rollout of the project in 2027 and drive digital transformation across the public sector.
At the centre of the initiative is the Government in Your Hand vision, which seeks to make government services more accessible, efficient and citizen-centred through technology. Planned interventions include the introduction of Electronic IDs and USSD-based services, enabling citizens, including those without smartphones, to access government services digitally.
On the first day of the workshop, participants explored the importance of embracing change and accelerating digital transformation to improve service delivery and enhance the lives of emaSwati. Day Two focused on digitization of Eswatini messaging architecture, knowledge transfer tools, digital storytelling for the public sector, gender-sensitive communication and strategies for engaging rural communities through the Tinkhundla system. Digital Eswatini Project Implementation Unit representative Bheki Nxumalo facilitated practical exercises aimed at strengthening participants’ ability to champion digital adoption within their institutions.
The World Bank-funded project is expected to have a significant impact on education, healthcare and community development. A total of 859 schools, 134 health centres and 38 Tinkhundla centres are set to benefit from broadband connectivity under the programme.
Of the E1.2 billion investment, E648 million has been allocated to affordable broadband expansion, including EPTC stabilisation and reform, fibre network expansion and last-mile connectivity. Another E450 million will support the Government in Your Hand component through the development of Digital Public Infrastructure, the digitalisation of priority government services and digital skills development.
Nxumalo said the project is about more than technology. It is intended to create a digitally inclusive Eswatini where citizens can access services online, learners can benefit from digital education, healthcare facilities can operate more efficiently and businesses can thrive in a connected economy.
As preparations for the 2027 rollout continue, the trained Change Agents are expected to play a key role in ensuring the successful implementation of the World Bank-funded Eswatini Digitization Project and in bringing digital services closer to communities across the country.
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