EZULWINI – Minister of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) Senator Savannah Maziya announced a new era for government services in Eswatini, stating that citizens will no longer have to endure long queues to access essential services or pay taxes.
During the launch of the Government In Your Hands mobile app and the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) TaxPal app at the ERS auditorium, Ezulwini, on Wednesday, Maziya emphasized the importance of digital platforms in making government services more accessible.
“Today we officially unveil the government in your hand national mobile app,” she said, marking the first phase of a significant national initiative. Maziya’s vision for digital accessibility began when she was appointed by His Majesty King Mswati III. The Director of eGovernment, Bongani Ndlangamandla, highlighted the app’s launch as a significant milestone, noting that it was Maziya’s brainchild.
The new app aims to alleviate the frustrations Emaswati face when seeking government services. Maziya noted that it allows users to access services from anywhere and avoid missing important deadlines. The TaxPal App is designed to simplify tax compliance and enhance communication between taxpayers and authorities.
While Maziya acknowledged the possibility of technical glitches, she encouraged citizens to provide feedback to help improve the app. Future enhancements will include online trading licenses and improved tech infrastructure, with 48 Tinkhundla centers upgraded with free WiFi and 155 schools benefiting from similar initiatives. Rural areas will also gain connectivity through nationwide optical fiber installation, expected to be completed in 24 months.
ERS Commissioner General Brightwell Nkambule stated that the new apps will provide seamless digital services. The TaxPal App will allow taxpayers to manage their accounts and access tax clearance certificates anytime, anywhere, with plans to include more payment options in the future.
“Our ambitions in tax and customs modernization depend on the strength of our Public Digital Infrastructure,” Nkambule stated, highlighting the need for integrated systems to deliver a comprehensive, inclusive digital revenue service.
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