The Ministry of Information Communication and Technology, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESEPARC) is proud to announce the launch of the Digital Readiness Assessment (DRA). This groundbreaking initiative represents Eswatini’s journey alongside other countries in implementing the UNDP Digital Readiness Assessment, a tool that helps countries assess their digital strengths and weaknesses via the Digital Transformation Framework.
The DRA is designed to evaluate the current state of digital readiness across various sectors in Eswatini, identifying not only strengths and areas for improvement but also potential weaknesses and opportunities. This comprehensive assessment will serve as a strategic roadmap for the country’s digital transformation, ensuring that all stakeholders—including government entities, businesses, and civil society organisations—are well prepared to embrace and thrive in the digital future.
Key stakeholders present at the launch included representatives from the Eswatini Revenue Services, Eswatini Post and Telecommunications Corporation, NetCom, Eswatini Bank, Eswatini National Provident Fund, Eswatini Financial Intelligence, Datamatics, government ministries and parastatals, among others. The collective expertise and commitment of these industry stakeholders are pivotal to driving the successful implementation of the Digital Readiness Assessment. Their involvement underscores a unified effort to foster a more connected and digitally empowered Eswatini.
E-Gov Director Bonga Ndlangamandla passionately emphasized that this initiative is designed to operationalise the Digitalisation Strategy (2024-2028) of the country. This strategy seeks to drive Eswatini’s digital agenda and ensure transformation of the economy by tapping into the digital era. To ensure its success, extensive scoping and resource mobilisation efforts are required to garner support for all government initiatives including the DRA and the “Government in your hand initiative”. As such, this assessment aims to align Eswatini’s efforts with the National Development Plan (NDP) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Resident Representative of the UNDP highlighted the significance of the DRA in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and an enabler for inclusion and social development.
The Digital Readiness Assessment is expected to bring numerous benefits, including improved digital infrastructure, enhanced public services, and increased economic opportunities. Identifying and addressing gaps in digital readiness to create a more inclusive and innovative society. To complete the assessment a survey with experts and digital ecosystem stakeholders from both the public and private sector will be conducted to collect information on the level of digitalisation in Eswatini. The Assessment will begin on the 21st August up to 13th September 2024. We kindly urge all institutions and individuals in Eswatini’s digital space to participate in this survey.
