His Majesty King Mswati III, together with the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (MICT), has announced that Eswatini is actively exploring a potential collaboration with Google Cloud to advance the kingdom’s digital economy.
This follows the Government’s signing of a strategic partnership with Google under the “Innovating Together” initiative, aligned with the Government in Your Hand programme.
This was revealed by the Minister of ICT, Savanah Maziya, while speaking on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly and Climate Week at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York. Maziya addressed an audience that included H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State in the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside other dignitaries.
Maziya explained that Eswatini is investigating how frontier technologies could be integrated into government operations, with possible solutions including a digital addressing system and Public Key Infrastructure.
“This potential collaboration aligns with our Government in Your Hand programme, which seeks to leverage technology to enhance public services and foster economic opportunities,” she said.
According to Maziya, discussions with Google Cloud are centred on:
Google Workspace for the public sector: exploring how this collaborative tool can improve governance, making services more secure, accessible, efficient, and transparent.
E-Government solutions: integrating digital tools to streamline service delivery.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning: applying these technologies in government to analyse data and enable smarter, more responsive decision-making.
Cloud computing and cybersecurity: strengthening government systems to ensure efficiency and protection of information.
Emerging technologies and e-learning tools: creating opportunities for innovation and education.
She added that engagement with Google Cloud presents an opportunity to harness world-class digital platforms and expertise to enhance public services, empower youth with vital digital skills, and position Eswatini as a regional leader in innovation and talent development.
“The Government of Eswatini extends its deepest appreciation to Google Cloud for their interest and for engaging with us in these important exploratory discussions,” Maziya said. “By walking with Eswatini on this innovation journey, and exploring future collaborations, they demonstrate confidence not only in our nation, but also in Africa’s ability to lead the next wave of digital transformation, innovation, and inclusive growth.”