By Noncedo Shabangu
MBABANE – Mr. Tipho Shabalala, Head of Information Security Risk and Control at Standard Bank, delivered an informative and engaging speech at the Hilton Garden Inn in Mbabane. Speaking to an audience of government officials, IT professionals, and service providers, he emphasized the need for better data systems, automation, and secure digital practices in municipalities.
Understanding data is the first step
Shabalala began by stressing the importance of knowing the kind of data an organization collects, who is responsible for it, and why it matters. He explained that some data is protected by law, and failing to handle it properly could lead to legal problems. He encouraged municipalities to create data standards, which help make new systems easier to manage and safer to use.
Shabalala said that know your data, understand who owns it, and define its importance. Automation saves time and improves service. He explained how automation can help reduce errors and improve public service delivery. Many tasks done in municipalities are repeated daily, weekly, or monthly. These are perfect opportunities to use automation tools.
Shabalala shared how Standard Bank had successfully introduced automation over the past few years. He noted that employees from across the organization not just in IT have been involved in the process. “Start with simple tasks and build from there,” he advised. “If it’s done often, it can likely be automated.” He also encouraged municipalities to simplify how they bill residents. Instead of sending separate bills for different services, one clear and combined bill would make things easier for both the municipality and its customers.
Cloud computing and legal compliance
Shabalala spoke about the rising interest in cloud computing to cut IT infrastructure costs. He confirmed that it is possible, but organizations must follow legal and regulatory requirements. “Yes, you can move your data to the cloud,” he said. “But it must be done within the law.”
He explained that data can only be stored in countries with strong data protection laws, and that approval must be obtained from regulators like the Central Bank and the Communications Commission.
Shabalala encouraged leaders to invest in data, systems, and skills to create better, faster, and more secure public services. His message was clear smart use of data and technology can make a real difference.
