By Mbono Mdluli
EZULWINI – Eswatini Communications Commission (ESSCOM) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mvilawemphi Dlamini wants all Emaswati to be able to communicate in Eswatini.
Dlamini said this during the opening of the inaugural National Communications Forum, held at Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini, an event which was also attended by Minister of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) Savannah Maziya.
To make the inclusive connectivity a reality, Dlamini has thrown a challenge to different communications experts participating in the forum to find ways of making sure that Emaswati are able to communicate, in terms of coverage, affordability, and otherwise.
The meeting started on March 12, 2025 and is supposed to be concluded on March 14, 2025. The forum will look at telecommunications, broadcasting, as well as the postal and courier service industry in the country.
Introduction
Dlamini began by addressing the audience, including the Programme Director, the Honourable Minister of ICT, ICT Portfolio Committee chairs, and other esteemed guests. He extended a warm welcome to the inaugural Eswatini National Communications Forum, expressing great pride and honour in leading such an engaging and transformative event.
Acknowledgment of Attendees
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Minister for ICT for attending the forum despite a busy schedule and thanked all attendees for their presence, which he noted reflected the growing importance of the communication and digital sectors in shaping the future of Eswatini.
Forum Theme
The CEO highlighted that the theme of the forum, “A Dialogue on Industry Growth, Innovation, Regulation, and Consumer Protection,” was timely and underscored the vast potential of leveraging technology and communication to unlock new opportunities for every citizen. He mentioned that the forum came at a pivotal moment for ESCCOM, having recently celebrated its 10th anniversary under the theme “A Decade of Digital Evolution: Pioneering Eswatini’s Digital Journey.” He stated that since its establishment, ESCCOM had tirelessly worked to transform Eswatini’s communications landscape, promoting innovation and inclusivity across various sectors.
Minister’s Commitment
The CEO commended the Honourable Minister for their commitment to a dynamic and pragmatic approach to leveraging ICTs for economic growth, noting their dedication in positioning Eswatini at the forefront of ICT development through engagements with global tech companies like Google. He asserted that through these efforts, Emaswati were ensured full enjoyment of the benefits of digital transformation.
Importance of the Forum
He explained that, as mandated by the ESCCOM Act of 2013, the forum served as a vital platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions regarding the state and performance of regulated sectors, marking a significant step forward in fulfilling this essential aspect of their mission.
Reflection on Progress
The CEO remarked that, as they stood at the threshold of a new digital transformation era, it was imperative to reflect on the significant strides made by Eswatini in recent years. He noted how the communications landscape had evolved dramatically, highlighting improvements in mobile connectivity and the rapid adoption of internet services, which had enhanced the lives of the people and created new possibilities in various sectors.
Responsibilities and Opportunities
While acknowledging the successes of ESCCOM, including the reduction in communication costs and advancements through the Universal Access & Service Fund, he emphasized that progress also brought responsibility and opportunity. The forum provided a unique opportunity for dialogue on how stakeholders could collectively address challenges, share innovative solutions, and foster partnerships to promote sustainable growth.
Vision for Eswatini
He connected Eswatini’s Vision 2022, which aimed at achieving a high-income economy, to the growth of the communications and ICT sectors, noting that the Tinkhundla government had prioritised digital infrastructure development to keep pace with global trends and position Eswatini as a leader in the Southern African region. He stressed that digital transformation was not solely about infrastructure but also about empowering citizens with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a connected world.
Engagement in Discussions
He encouraged all participants, from government, business, academia, and civil society, to engage actively in important discussions over the three days, sharing insights on collaboration opportunities, enhancing industry performance, ensuring affordability and accessibility, and strengthening consumer protection.
Commitment to a Strong Ecosystem
The CEO reiterated the ESCCOM’s commitment to building a strong, dynamic, and inclusive communications environment that fosters innovation, supports local content, attracts investment, and safeguards consumer interests.
Conclusion
In closing, he thanked partners, sponsors, speakers, and all individuals who contributed to making the forum possible, recognising their collaboration as a testament to the collective effort needed to advance the country in the digital age. He urged everyone to use the forum as a platform for sharing ideas and forging new partnerships, committing to work together for the betterment of Eswatini and its people.
Finally, he posed questions for consideration by the end of the forum regarding the competitiveness of voice and data prices, the sustainability of the broadcasting sector in the digital age, and the regulatory balance needed for the post office amid digital advancements.
He concluded by wishing everyone a productive and inspiring Eswatini National Communications Forum 2025.
