MBABANE – Health communication experts from the Ministry of Health were introduced to new digital tools powered by artificial intelligence during a two-day training session hosted at Sibane Sami Hotel on Monday.
The workshop, sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO) Eswatini, featured two key presentations from Sbu Mngadi of Stratcom Media, who explored how AI is changing the landscape of health communication and social media management.
Mngadi, known for his work in strategic communication, guided participants through the growing role of AI in public health. He showed how the technology is being used to deliver faster crisis response, improve audience engagement, and refine message targeting in health campaigns.
He also offered a candid analogy during the session, likening the current approach to AI in Eswatini to how society once viewed sex — acknowledging its benefits, yet shying away from honest discussion.
“We experiment with it quietly, behind closed doors,” Mngadi told the room. “Without open conversations, we risk using it in ways that could backfire.”
He said the country needs safe and informed spaces to explore AI’s potential responsibly, warning that misuse often stems from ignorance rather than malice.
The dialogue is expected to continue at the upcoming AI & Digital Transformation Summit 2025, set to take place from 16–17 July. The summit will bring together technologists, business leaders and policymakers under the theme Job Creation & Economic Prosperity. The venue has not yet been disclosed.
Mngadi’s firm, Stratcom Media, is spearheading the event, which aims to unpack AI’s role across industries such as health, education, and commerce. An early bird special offering a 30% discount for registrations paid before 30 May is currently available.
To register, visit summit.stratcomeswatini.com or contact the organisers via 2518 5677 or 7683 8729.
Discussion about this post