The importance of space technologies, particularly for developing countries and growing economies like Eswatini, cannot be overstated. This was the central message delivered by the Minister of Information, Communications, and Technology, Savannah Maziya, as she announced the Kingdom’s participation in a high-level training programme hosted by the Republic of India.
“The importance of space technologies, particularly for developing countries, cannot be overstated,” Minister Savannah remarked. “Globally, the space economy was valued at approximately USD 613 billion in 2024 and is projected to exceed USD 1.8 trillion by 2035. For developing nations, space technologies are an essential layer of modern infrastructure.”
The Minister explained that the drive toward space science is not a peripheral interest but a core component of the nation’s digital transformation. She noted that space-based systems are already the backbone of essential services that Emaswati rely on daily.
“From satellite communications and GPS systems to weather forecasting and remote sensing, these technologies are already supporting agriculture, disaster management, healthcare delivery, and financial systems,” the Minister said. She emphasized that building capacity in this field allows the Kingdom to position ourselves to harness data, improve service delivery, and unlock new economic sectors aligned to the digital economy.
The initiative is a strategic pillar of the broader Government in Your Hand campaign, which seeks to modernize public service through innovation and capacity building. Minister Savannah highlighted that this programme is vital for ensuring that Eswatini remains ahead of the curve in a knowledge-based global economy.
“This initiative therefore aligns perfectly with our national vision to create opportunities for Emaswati, particularly our youth,” the Minister said. “As our participants prepare to undertake this programme, we are confident that they will return with knowledge and expertise that will strengthen our national capabilities.”
The training, titled “Space Technologies for the Benefit of Mankind: Indo-African Perspective,” is facilitated through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. The Minister extended her sincere appreciation to the Indian High Commission, noting that the partnership reflects the strong and growing bilateral relations between the two nations.
“We further wish to acknowledge and commend the Government of India for the extension of the ITEC programme to the Kingdom of Eswatini. This programme continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening human capital and advancing our digital transformation agenda,” she said.
The Minister officially presented four distinguished professionals who will represent Eswatini in the Republic of India. These individuals were selected for their ability to bridge the gap between academic research and national development:
- Prof. Simiso Mkhonta – University of Eswatini (UNESWA)
- Dr. Nkambule – University of Eswatini (UNESWA)
- Mr. Phesheya Sukati – Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP)
- Mr. Sikhumbuzo Dlamini – Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP)
“These distinguished professionals represent both academia and research and are well positioned to contribute to national development,” the Minister concluded.