BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
EZULWINI- The Minister of Information, Communications and Technology, Hon Savannah Maziya, has reaffirmed Eswatini’s commitment to safeguarding personal data as a cornerstone of economic growth, innovation, and human dignity.
Speaking during the Data Protection Day Commemoration on January 28,2026 at Sibane Hotel hosted by the Ministry of ICT in partnership with the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM), Savannah Maziya emphasized that data protection is no longer a technical matter, but a people-centred issue that directly affects livelihoods, trust, and national development.
“For Eswatini to compete and succeed in regional and continental markets, we must protect personal data while enabling innovation and trade. Data protection is not a barrier to growth, but an enabler of sustainable economic integration,” said Savannah Maziya.
She noted that in today’s digital economy, data touches every aspect of life from entrepreneurs selling products online and farmers checking market prices, to parents accessing government services and young people applying for opportunities beyond Eswatini’s borders.
While data fuels innovation, trade, and job creation, its misuse erodes trust, exposes citizens, and weakens economies.
Hon. Savannah Maziya highlighted that e-commerce and digital trade can only thrive where there is trust, stressing that consumers must feel safe sharing personal information, businesses must be confident their data and innovations are protected, and government must ensure national data assets are securely managed.
She also pointed to key digital initiatives such as the Government in Your Hands platform, which has transformed access to public services by bringing government closer to the people, reducing costs, and saving time.
The minister emphasized that the success of such platforms depends on public confidence in strong data protection measures.
Addressing regional and continental trade, Savannah Maziya underscored the importance of trusted data governance as Eswatini positions itself within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
She noted that His Majesty King Mswati III has consistently championed Eswatini’s full participation in AfCFTA, particularly as digital trade and cross-border data flows become increasingly central to economic integration.
Senator Savannah Maziya said protecting personal data while enabling innovation will ensure Eswatini competes effectively while safeguarding national sovereignty.
She commended the Eswatini Communications Commission, in its role as the Eswatini Data Protection Authority, for the progress made in strengthening the country’s data protection framework, and confirmed that Data Protection Regulations are at an advanced stage, with firm commitment to their timely finalisation.
“These regulations will provide clarity, certainty, and confidence to citizens, businesses, and investors,” she said.
The Minister concluded by reiterated that data protection is essential to economic growth, digital inclusion, and human dignity, adding that the decisions taken today will shape whether Eswatini’s digital future empowers its people or exposes them to harm.
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