Mbabane – The Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT), in partnership with the Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP), hosted a thought-provoking seminar under the theme “Government in Your Hand: Strengthening Public Service Delivery through Innovation.”
The seminar, which also explored the role of Artificial Intelligence in governance, was held at the Business Centre during the International Trade and Exhibition Fair. It brought together experts to unpack the opportunities and challenges of e-Government. The panel discussion was moderated by Bonga Ndlangamandla, Head of e-Government at the ministry.
While speakers highlighted the potential of digital platforms to improve service delivery, the “elephant in the room” was cyber security. With cybercrime on the rise, the discussion zeroed in on protecting the personal data of Emaswati using the Government in Your Hand platform.
Nokuthula Hlophe from the Eswatini Communications Commission reassured the public that the system is secure. She emphasised that scammers often succeed not by hacking into systems but by manipulating individuals into giving away their data.
“Scammers study society and capitalise on people’s vulnerabilities. But when they cannot penetrate secure systems, they resort to tricking individuals,” Hlophe explained.
To strengthen protection, the ministry is currently drafting legislation on cyber security and data protection. Once in place, these policies will ensure that user data is only applied for its intended purpose, with third parties barred from misusing consumer information.
Civil society also welcomed the initiative. Bhekani Dlamini from the Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organisations (CANGO) applauded the ministry for introducing Government in Your Hand, calling it a “gamechanger” that is liberating and empowering for Emaswati.
“In today’s world, time is currency. This platform provides efficiency, and that efficiency is empowerment,” Dlamini said.
His sentiments were echoed by Sabelo Gama from the Central Bank of Eswatini, who stressed that smooth and reliable payment systems are critical for the success of the platform.
“When people are paying for services, they should not face challenges. That is why the bank has formulated a one-click payment method to make transactions easier and faster,” Gama noted. He added that the central bank’s payment switch enables 24/7 transactions, meaning Emaswati can apply for and pay for government services at any time, without waiting for the normal working hours.
The panel highlighted that for Government in Your Hand to reach its full potential, innovation must go hand in hand with strong security and efficient payment systems, ensuring that digital transformation truly benefits all citizens.
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