The Minister of Information, Communication and Technology, Savannah Maziya, has officially launched the country’s first-ever National Data Policy process, marking a decisive step toward strengthening data governance and securing Eswatini’s digital future.
Speaking at the First National Stakeholder Workshop held at the Hilton Hotel, Maziya described the initiative as a historic milestone that will shape how the country governs, protects, and harnesses data as a key driver of development.
“This is not just another policy discussion; it is the beginning of a national movement,” she said.
“Data is one of the most valuable resources of our time, and how we manage it will determine our future competitiveness.”
The workshop, supported by the Smart Africa Alliance, brought together stakeholders from government, business, civil society, academia, and development partners to contribute to the development of a unified national data framework.
Maziya stressed that while Eswatini generates vast amounts of data daily across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, and public services, the absence of a comprehensive national framework poses significant risks.
“This gap exposes us to threats to citizen privacy, national security, and investor confidence,” she said. “Without a clear policy direction, we cannot fully participate in the global digital economy.”
She warned that many countries across Africa are already implementing robust data governance systems, and that Eswatini must act swiftly to remain competitive.
At the heart of the proposed policy is the recognition of data as a strategic national asset, one that must be carefully managed to unlock economic opportunities while safeguarding citizens.
“This policy will guide how data is collected, stored, shared, and protected,” Maziya explained. “It will also create an enabling environment for innovation and growth.”
The Minister highlighted that the National Data Policy will play a central role in advancing Eswatini’s broader development agenda, particularly its ambition to become a knowledge-based and digitally driven economy.
“From e-government to financial inclusion, agriculture, and healthcare, every sector depends on reliable and secure data,” she said. “This policy will impact every citizen.”
Maziya also confirmed that the initiative has full government support and will be integrated into the country’s wider digital transformation strategy.
She further pointed to existing legislation that provides a strong foundation for the policy, including the Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, the Data Protection Act, and the Electronic Transactions Act of 2022.
“These laws already establish important safeguards and frameworks,” she said. “The National Data Policy will build on them to ensure a coherent and effective system.”
Importantly, Maziya revealed that regulations to operationalise both the Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act and the Data Protection Act are at an advanced stage, signalling progress toward stronger enforcement and accountability.
“The policy will complement our legal framework and ensure alignment across all systems,” she added.
She concluded by urging stakeholders to actively participate in shaping the policy, emphasizing the importance of inclusive engagement.
“This policy must reflect the aspirations of the nation,” Maziya said. “It must be inclusive, forward-looking, and capable of unlocking the full potential of data for the benefit of all emaSwati.”