By Fezile Mkhatshwa
Eswatini is set to host one of its most significant tech events yet—the AI & Digital Transformation Summit 2025, scheduled for July 15–17 at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre in Manzini.
Organised by the Stratcom Group, the summit aims to accelerate the country’s digital future and foster innovation among youth, startups, and enterprises.
The three-day summit is expected to draw participants from Eswatini, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, serving as a launchpad for the next generation of innovators, digital leaders, and aspiring tech professionals.
According to Sibusiso Mngadi, CEO of Stratcom Group, the summit is designed to act as a catalyst for national economic growth by fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Backed by the Ministry of ICT, the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), and the Eswatini National Commission for UNESCO, the event is being positioned as a national innovation platform to help strengthen Eswatini’s tech ecosystem.
“We commend the young people who have already applied through our website,” Mngadi said. “This summit is a rare opportunity to engage with industry leaders and gain exposure to cutting-edge trends in AI and digital transformation. We are also in advanced discussions with both local and international organisations to incubate participants who will attend the summit, which we will be unveiling at a later stage. We are looking at every means to open opportunities for young people.”
The enthusiasm among Eswatini’s youth has been overwhelming, with 160 of the 200 free youth passes already claimed. Fewer than 40 complimentary slots remain, signaling strong demand and growing interest in digital technologies among the nation’s young innovators.
Once the free youth passes run out, early bird registration will open at E1,500 per person until May 30, 2025, after which the standard registration fee will rise to E2,250. Premium VIP passes, offering priority seating and exclusive networking opportunities, are also available at E2,750.
The summit boasts a stellar lineup of over 20 speakers from across the region, including Talifhani Banks, founder of Spaza Eats, Musa Kalenga, Group CEO of Brave Group, as well as local experts like Professor Sandile Motsa and Dr. Rejoice Maseko, who will share insights on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.
The initiative is aligned with His Majesty King Mswati III’s declaration of 2025 as the ‘Year of Transformation’, and supports Minister Savannah Maziya’s ‘Government in Your Hand’ project—an ambitious drive to digitally empower citizens and streamline service delivery through technology.