BY Tlalane Dlamini
MALKERNS – MTN Eswatini officially launched its 21 Days of Y’ello Care initiative, hailed as a transformative and meaningful contribution to national development. Principal Secretary Phesheya Dube, speaking on behalf of Minister of ICT Savannah Maziya, praised MTN as a true partner in progress, leveraging technology to uplift communities and accelerate inclusive development.
This year’s theme, “Connecting at the Roots: Connecting Communities Through Digital Tools,” perfectly aligns with Eswatini’s digital transformation agenda. Dube stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring every Liswati benefits from the digital revolution, welcoming partners like MTN in achieving this vision.
He commended MTN’s dedication to digital inclusion at the grassroots level and highlighted the Ministry of ICT’s “Government in Your Hand” mobile app. This platform offers citizens convenient access to public services and secure mobile payments, boosting efficiency and dignity in service delivery. Future updates will introduce even more government services, fostering a citizen-centric, accessible, and responsive government.
Strategic Partnerships and Holistic Development
A key aspect of this drive is the strategic collaboration between MTN Eswatini and the “Government in Your Hand” program, reinforcing the mission for an inclusive digital Eswatini. This year’s Y’ello Care features initiatives like training rural teachers in AI and digital education, empowering smallholder farmers with digital market access through the eHIS App, and equipping entrepreneurs with e-commerce skills. Dube emphasized these are not just programs, but “investments in our people, in their potential, and in Eswatini’s digital future.”
Beyond digital innovation, MTN demonstrates a deep commitment to sustainable development. Partnerships include installing solar-powered boreholes in rural primary schools with Thirst, providing clean water, and clearing roads to remote schools with the Ministry of Public Works, ensuring no child is left behind due to infrastructure limitations. These initiatives showcase a holistic approach to development, where connectivity, education, health, and access go hand in hand.
The Power of Volunteerism
Dube highlighted the powerful spirit of volunteerism among MTN staff, who are actively participating in “real service to the nation.” This, he noted, underscores that development is a collective responsibility, with every partner playing a vital role.
Concluding, Dube expressed the Government of Eswatini’s sincere appreciation to MTN Eswatini and its partners. He affirmed their efforts in expanding connectivity, promoting digital payments, enhancing digital literacy, and uplifting rural communities are “shaping the future of our country.” He called for continued collaboration to build an Eswatini that is “inclusive, innovative, and prepared for the opportunities of tomorrow.”
