BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
EZULWINI – Minister of Information, Communications and Technology Savannah Maziya has urged government institutions and partners to prioritise swift implementation of development projects that improve the lives of emaSwati, create economic opportunities and strengthen service delivery.
Speaking during the official launch of the Eswatini National Addressing Standard (SZNS ISO 19160) at Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini on July 16, 2026, Maziya said successful development depends not only on introducing innovative initiatives, but also on ensuring they are implemented efficiently so that citizens can experience their benefits.
She said government projects must continue to focus on creating jobs, promoting social inclusion and delivering practical solutions that respond to the needs of communities.
“We are here to empower, we are here to give dignity, but we are also here to have empathy,” said Maziya. “There are real human beings out there, there are our families, there are people in the rural areas and there are people who are disabled who need for us as government to have the kind of empathy that we talk about.”
The minister said the newly launched National Addressing Standard represents an important step towards building a modern and digitally connected Eswatini, with the potential to transform service delivery across various sectors.
She explained that a reliable addressing system will support emergency response, logistics, e-commerce, postal services and investment by making it easier to locate homes, businesses and institutions.
“In 2026 there shouldn’t be a country that does not have addressing,” said Maziya. “Most of the cars, as you know, have navigation systems. But when you cross the border and come to us, it’s just lines. We need to be able to have addressing so that when you do have it, it is also in the car and you are able to actually get to these houses.”
Maziya highlighted that the standard will also bring significant benefits to businesses by improving accessibility and strengthening the ease of doing business.
“I’m very happy that we are able to support businesses. This is so important for businesses, to be able for people to reach businesses,” she said.
The minister commended the collaboration between the Ministry of ICT, the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM), the Eswatini Standards Authority (SWASA) and the Universal Postal Union (UPU), describing partnerships as essential in delivering initiatives that advance national development.
She encouraged all stakeholders to maintain momentum and move towards effective implementation of the new standard.
“Let’s make sure that we are always delivering for the people, that we are always ahead of the game, that we are really working as one government. But most importantly, quick execution now. This is such a great opportunity for our country,” she said.
The Eswatini National Addressing Standard seeks to provide every citizen with a formal and recognised address, supporting improved public services while accelerating digital transformation and inclusive economic development.
Maziya said the initiative aligns with His Majesty King Mswati III’s vision of transforming Eswatini into a modern, globally competitive economy.
“This particular service makes me so happy because I really understand that as a country, and the companies that we have, especially in ICT, but everywhere else, are giving this country and its people jobs, economic development and ensuring that those who are vulnerable are being serviced,” she said.
The launch marks another milestone in Eswatini’s digital transformation journey, with the National Addressing Standard expected to enhance service delivery, support businesses, improve connectivity and contribute towards sustainable economic growth.
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