LocationsICT Ministry and UNDP Launch Digital Readiness Assessment Results
November 13, 2024
UNDP Resident Representative, Henrik Franklin, after handing over the DRA results report to NDP of ICT, Hon. Savanna Maziya.
The Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MICT), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), today officially launched the results of the Digital Readiness Assessment (DRA) in Eswatini, marking a significant milestone in the country’s path toward digital transformation.
Supported by the UNDP’s Chief Digital Office, UNDP Eswatini, in close collaboration with MITC, assessed the country’s digital strengths, challenges, and opportunities. The assessment, launched on 21 August, paved the way for a strategic roadmap that aligns with national development priorities.
The DRA is a critical step in supporting Eswatini’s efforts to integrate digital solutions into all sectors, facilitating economic growth, enhancing public services, and fostering inclusive digital access. The DRA whole-of-society approach involved multiple stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, civil society, development partners and academic leaders. The DRA confirmed the country is systematically advancing in key areas of digital transformation based on identified priority areas.
The assessment highlighted the need for investing in:
Connectivity and public digital infrastructure: Digital ID, Payments, and data exchange interoperability.
In People: Creating Digital Skills for the Population and Civil Service
Public Services: Providing better public services through digital platforms.
Strengthen digital ecosystems: Private Sector Digitalization, including support for innovation and the start-up ecosystem
UNDP Digital Specialist under the Chief Digital Office, Darinka Vasquez, outlining the Digital Readiness Process.
In his remarks, Mr. Henrik Franklin, UNDP Eswatini Resident Representative, emphasised the transformative potential of this initiative. "The Digital Readiness Assessment is an invaluable and independent baseline diagnosis against which further progress can be measured moving forward," he said. "Through a collaborative approach, we aim to create a roadmap that not only builds digital infrastructure but also fosters digital skills, supports innovation, and promotes inclusivity. We are committed to supporting Eswatini’s journey toward a digitally empowered society that leaves no one behind."
The Minister of ICT, Hon. Savannah Maziya, highlighted the significance of this partnership with UNDP and its role in the country's digital transformation agenda. “The findings in this report are key to the successful realisation of the Eswatini Government Digital Transformation Strategy, as they provide fundamental insights into the digital public infrastructure foundational elements that need to be strengthened as we pave the way for integrated digital services," she said. "The insights from this assessment will help us craft policies and frameworks that support our national digital transformation agenda. It is encouraging that the findings of this DRA are aligned with the Government in Your Hand Strategy."
UNDP Eswatini is working alongside MICT to identify strategies for building digital resilience, enhancing data management, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
The DRA workshop, stakeholder engagements, and report presentations scheduled over the coming days will provide in-depth insights and actionable recommendations that lay the groundwork for Eswatini’s digital future. UNDP remains committed to supporting Eswatini’s goals of achieving equitable digital transformation and fostering a vibrant digital economy that benefits all citizens. Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESEPARC) partnered with UNDP in conducting the assessment.