“Digitally Connecting Every Drop.”
This is the theme for the Eswatini Water Services Corporation (EWSC) at this year’s Eswatini International Trade Fair. The utility’s Specialist PR and Communications, Hlobile Jele, notes that this theme reflects their bold steps in adopting digital innovation and inclusivity in water service delivery.
“The EWSC is proud to participate in this year’s EITF under the theme: “Digitally Connecting Every Drop”. The theme highlights the Corporation’s efforts in utilizing digital innovation to improve efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity in water services.”
Jele adds that as part of this year’s showcase, EWSC will present two of its latest milestones in digital transformation: the Prepaid Metering Project and Prepaid Standpipes. These innovations underscore the corporation’s dedication to modernizing water access for both households and communities nationwide.
The Prepaid Metering Project officially launched after a successful pilot at Mndoni Estate in Ezulwini. Based on a pay-as-you-use model, prepaid meters enable customers to monitor and manage their water usage in real time. This encourages responsible consumption, better budgeting, and transparency.
EWSC plans to upgrade 12,000 residential connections to prepaid meters over the next five years, with the first phase already underway in five areas across all four regions of Eswatini.
Complementing this, Prepaid Standpipes are being introduced in cluster communities for residents without individual water connections. Currently operating in Mangwaneni (Manzini) and Lobamba Mashibini, these standpipes utilize a token system that allows households to load funds and access water conveniently. This model ensures fair usage, accountability, and affordability, aligning with EWSC’s strategic theme for the year, Sitselekile – Embracing Digitisation and Leaving No One Behind.
The Specialist PR and Communications further notes that visitors will have the opportunity to interact with EWSC teams and see live demonstrations of how both prepaid meters and standpipes work during this year’s Trade Fair.
Customers will also receive education on the benefits of these systems, including sustainability, reliability, and the empowerment that comes with greater control over water use.
Jele says that the showcase is more than just an exhibition; it is a demonstration of how innovation is transforming the customer experience.
“This year’s Trade Fair marks an important milestone for EWSC. By showcasing our prepaid meters and standpipes, we are bringing our digital transformation journey closer to the people we serve. This is about empowering customers with choice, transparency, and convenience while making sure no one is left behind.”
Jele concludes by stating that a model of the metering system will also be shown to demonstrate EWSC’s progress over the years, highlighting how the current postpaid system operates, as most customers still use it.
“As part of our Trade Fair activities, we are also rewarding customers who settle their water bills during the event,” Jele explained. “Exciting prizes are up for grabs, including a trolley dash, a JoJo Tank, and even a luxurious night’s stay at Sibane Sami Hotel. This is our way of thanking customers for their continued support and encouraging timely bill payments.”
The corporation invites all Trade Fair visitors to stop by its stand to learn more, engage with the team, and see first-hand how EWSC is Digitally Connecting Every Drop.