BY MAFUFIKILE KHATHWANE
EZULWINI – EmaSwati could soon no longer have to repeatedly submit the same personal information at different government offices as Government moves to introduce a new data governance system aimed at making public services faster, easier and more efficient.
The proposed National Data Governance Policy (2027–2031) seeks to introduce a “Tell Government Once” principle, where citizens provide their information once and authorised government institutions securely access it when delivering services.
This means services such as applying for birth certificates, marriage certificates and other government documents could become simpler as departments work through connected digital systems.
The policy is currently being validated during the National Data Governance Policy Validation Workshop held at Sibane Sami Hotel in Ezulwini, bringing together government ministries, regulators, the private sector, civil society, academia and development partners.
Ending repeated requests
Representing the Minister of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) Senator Savannah Maziya, Under Secretary Macanjana C. Motsa said well-governed data was one of the most valuable assets the Kingdom holds and could transform public service delivery.
Motsa said Eswatini already had large amounts of data in areas such as health, education, agriculture, finance, land and civil registration, but the information was often fragmented across more than 70 government systems.
He said the new policy would help address these challenges by creating a coordinated approach to managing and sharing data securely.
“Data, well governed, is one of the most valuable assets this Kingdom holds. Let us use the days ahead to make sure we govern it well, for the benefit of every Emaswati,” Motsa said.
Digital transformation drive
The draft policy is built around nine pillars focusing on stronger data governance, digital infrastructure, privacy protection, innovation, skills development and the growth of a data-driven economy.
Among the key proposals is the establishment of a National Data Exchange Platform known as Mchumanisi, which will enable secure sharing of information between government institutions.
The policy also proposes a National Data Marketplace and a Data Champions Network to support implementation across ministries.
Under Secretary said the reforms would help improve government efficiency, attract investment and allow citizens to participate more confidently in the digital economy.
Protecting citizens’ information
While promoting easier access to services, the policy places strong emphasis on protecting personal information.
The draft recognises the role of the Eswatini Data Protection Authority in overseeing the use and sharing of personal data, including regulating data transfers and ensuring that citizens’ privacy rights are protected.
The policy also seeks to strengthen public confidence by ensuring that data is handled responsibly and securely.
Support from partners
GIZ Country Director for South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho commended Eswatini for taking proactive steps to develop a national data governance framework aligned with the African Union Data Policy Framework.
The director said data had become a key driver of development, economic growth and improved services in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education and finance.
GIZ and Germany pledged continued support towards building a secure and inclusive data economy in Eswatini.
Meanwhile, Smart Africa Director for Digital Infrastructure, Skills and Empowerment Thelma Efua Quaye praised Eswatini’s commitment to advancing its digital transformation agenda.
She said the Kingdom had demonstrated strong leadership and passion in building systems that would support digital growth.
Future is digital
European Union Ambassador to Eswatini Kersten Mecklenburg said the future of both the economy and government was digital, making effective data governance critical.
He said strong data systems would support innovation, improve public services and help countries compete in the digital economy.
The National Data Governance Policy is expected to provide the foundation for a more connected government where services are delivered faster, while ensuring that emaSwati’s personal information remains protected.
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(Courtesy Pic)
