By Noncedo Shabangu (Intern)
EZULWINI – United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has applauded Eswatini’s bold strides toward building a digitally inclusive economy, declaring the Kingdom poised to lead the continent in using innovation and finance as tools for development.
Speaking at the FINNOVATION 2025 Innovation Summit held at Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Ms. Nessie Golakai Gould commended the country’s growing commitment to transformative technology, local innovation, and inclusive financial solutions that empower ordinary citizens.
Ms. Golakai-Gould emphasised that for the UNDP, innovation is not about chasing the latest trend but about reimagining systems and services to better serve people and the planet. She cited Eswatini’s digital tools such as mobile e-payment platforms and real time data systems like EHIS as proof of local solutions that are already delivering impact on the ground.
The Deputy Resident Representative also stressed the importance of aligning development finance with national goals. She noted that innovation must be matched by strategic investments that reach small businesses, rural farmers, youth, and women entrepreneurs. “We must mobilise and align capital at scale both public and private,” she said. “We’re focused on unlocking finance for MSMEs, climate resilience, and nature positive solutions.”
She highlighted UNDP’s support for Eswatini’s MSMEs, which includes promoting digital finance access, e-commerce integration, and data driven decision making. In addition, the organisation is driving efforts to empower youth and women led businesses through digital skills training and ecosystem development.
A key highlight was the AgriFinTech Accelerator, which aims to transform agriculture into a tech-enabled and profitable space for rural entrepreneurs. Ms. Golakai-Gould also addressed the need to rethink financial systems that have historically excluded informal businesses and early stage enterprises. She advocated for fintech innovations such as mobile lending, AI powered credit scoring, and peer to peer financing as tools to create faster and more inclusive financial ecosystems.
“Let us challenge ourselves to think bolder,” she urged. “Digital payments should move people out of poverty. Development finance must fuel transformation, not just funding.” UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Eswatini as a partner in innovation, systems change, and inclusive growth.
(Courtesy Pic)
