BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LOBAMBA – Government has moved a step closer to strengthening leadership within key information and communications technology (ICT) institutions, with the appointment of permanent chief executive officers (CEOs) for several parastatals now nearing completion.
The Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology revealed this during an appearance before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), where lawmakers sought clarity on the status of leadership positions within entities operating under the ministry.
Principal Secretary Mshishimba Andreas Dlamini assured the committee that the recruitment process was progressing well and that government was committed to ensuring that all ICT parastatals are led by substantive office bearers capable of driving the country’s digital transformation agenda.
The issue was raised by PAC Chairperson and Deputy Speaker Madala Mhlanga, who expressed concern that a number of public enterprises appeared to be operating under acting leadership arrangements. He said permanent appointments were essential for stability, continuity and long-term strategic planning within institutions that play a critical role in national development.
Responding to the concerns, Dlamini said significant progress had already been achieved.
He revealed that a permanent appointment had already been made at the Eswatini Post and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC), with Thulani Fakudze selected to take over the top post.
“We are working on the issue of CEOs. In Eswatini Post and Telecommunications, Thulani Fakudze has already been appointed and what remains is his start date before he assumes office. Regarding RSTP, the recruitment process is ongoing. The first stage has been completed and an appointment will be made very soon,” said Dlamini.
The Principal Secretary emphasised that strong and stable leadership was crucial if ICT institutions were to effectively support government programmes aimed at expanding digital services, improving communication infrastructure and enhancing service delivery across the country.
He said capable leadership would help position the sector to respond to rapidly changing technological trends while ensuring that public entities remain efficient, accountable and responsive to the needs of emaSwati.
Members of the PAC welcomed the update, noting that ICT institutions occupy a strategic position in the country’s development agenda. They stressed that permanent leadership would provide direction and strengthen governance structures within organisations responsible for telecommunications, broadcasting and digital innovation.
The committee also highlighted the importance of ensuring that recruitment processes are concluded without unnecessary delays, allowing institutions to focus fully on delivering services and implementing national development priorities.
The PAC engagement formed part of its ongoing oversight responsibilities aimed at promoting transparency, accountability and sound management of public resources across government ministries and state-owned enterprises.
The latest developments are expected to bring renewed confidence within the ICT sector, which remains central to Eswatini’s efforts to modernise public services, attract investment and build a digitally connected economy.
As government accelerates its digital transformation programme, the appointment of permanent CEOs is being viewed as a key step towards creating stronger institutions capable of supporting innovation, economic growth and improved service delivery for all citizens.
