BY MBONGENI NDLELA
EZULWINI — The Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) has taken a bold step into the digital age with the unveiling of its 2024-2027 Digitalisation Roadmap during the ERS Digitalisation Symposium.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) Savannah Maziya underscored the transformative power of technology in driving national progress and modernising Eswatini’s economic infrastructure.
The symposium, held at the ERS Headquarters in Ezulwini, brought together government officials, industry leaders, and public and private sector representatives to discuss how digital innovation can revolutionise tax administration and service delivery.
The ERS’ new strategic pillars—seamless registration, transformed declarations, integrated payments, and smart borders—represent a roadmap for improved efficiency, transparency, and enhanced service delivery. These initiatives reflect the ERS’ commitment to harnessing technology for the benefit of businesses and citizens.
“The ERS is laying the groundwork for a future where digital infrastructure simplifies processes and fosters trust. This roadmap embodies our shared vision of a digitally transformed Eswatini,” said Maziya.
The Minister emphasised the government’s pivotal role as an enabler and partner in ERS’ digital journey.
She said through the Ministry of ICT, Eswatini is actively developing national ICT infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring policies that foster digital inclusion.
She said programs like “Government in Your Hand”, which aim to bring over 200 government services online, are key to creating a connected and empowered society.
“Our mission is clear—to position Eswatini as a smart, digitally empowered nation. By digitising services, we make tax compliance intuitive and create an ecosystem where innovation thrives,” the Minister stated.
Highlighting the critical role of data, the Minister outlined plans to enhance data-sharing frameworks and system interoperability across government entities.
She said this will enable institutions like the ERS to access accurate, real-time information, enhancing service delivery while building public trust through transparency.
In parallel, cybersecurity remains a top priority.
She stated that the Ministry of ICT is implementing robust frameworks to safeguard sensitive data and ensure confidence in Eswatini’s digital platforms.
NEED TO ADDRESS GAPS IN DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY AND LITERACY – MINISTER SAVANNAH
EZULWINI – Minister Savannah Maziya says government’s Digital Readiness Assessment has revealed the need to address gaps in digital accessibility and literacy, ensuring no one is left behind.
The Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to empowering citizens with the skills and tools needed to participate in the digital economy.
“We must ensure that every liSwati has the opportunity to thrive in this digital era. The ERS’ efforts to embed a Digital First culture, combined with taxpayer education, reflect our shared vision for inclusion and progress,” Minister Maziya concluded.
She stated that the symposium served as a testament to the power of collaboration between the government, private sector, and public institutions. As Eswatini embarks on its digital transformation journey, the partnership between the Ministry of ICT and the ERS will remain instrumental in achieving the country’s ambitions.
“Together, through innovation and purpose, we will build a smarter, connected, and more prosperous Eswatini,” Minister Maziya said in closing.