Technology

USA – The Kingdom of Eswatini, through the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology, together with global partners Stardust and She Powers Africa, yesterday launched two groundbreaking initiatives.

His Majesty the King has described the initiatives with Google, Stardust and SHE Powers Africa, as one that will transform Eswatini into an innovation hub.

Facilitated by the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, marks the culmination of pioneering efforts by Minister Savannah Maziya, who last year announced a historic collaboration with technology giant Google.

“We acknowledge the bold step to champion action in the Kingdom of Eswatini, which has been presented by Google, Stardust, and SHE Powers Africa. We are grateful for your keen interest in sharing your respective technologies, experiences and resources with Eswatini. Your trust in our nation reflects a shared conviction that the kingdom can drive global transformation,” His Majesty the King said.

The partnership aims to bridge the digital divide and build capacity among emaSwati, particularly the youth.
“We are also mindful of the additional benefits that will significantly contribute to the economic development of the country and enhance government operations, particularly in service delivery.

“The Kingdom of Eswatini is pleased that the United Arab Emirates is committed to partnering with us as we empower our women and girls with skills in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity and more,” the King said.

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EmaSwati youth can dream of visiting space - Minister Savannah

NEW YORK, USA – Minister for Information, Communication and Technology Savannah Maziya has declared that young emaSwati can now aspire to travel to space.

Speaking at the event, dubbed ‘Three Firsts for Africa’, with Eswatini leading the way in technology for the future, the minister addressed His Majesty the King, describing herself as a dreamer.

“Your Majesty, like you, I see beyond the horizon and challenge those in government to transform the kingdom into a First World nation, a first on the African continent. I firmly believe that emaSwati youths will, in the not-too-distant future, be able to travel to space.

“This will be made possible through the partnerships we are launching today with Stardust, a Canadian space company, Google and the United Arab Emirates,” she said.

The minister highlighted that Stardust’s CEO, Jason Michaud, is a strong advocate for capacity building and will support the kingdom in establishing a Space Agency.

“Jason, your belief in our ambition to position Eswatini as a player in space technology has been truly inspiring. Your commitment to including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration – known as NASA – in our future partnership is remarkable.

“When I expressed our vision to partner with NASA, I was encouraged that you shared our perspective,” she said.

Minister Maziya also expressed gratitude for the support of the UAE government, which has been instrumental in positioning the Kingdom as a digital hub and driving innovation across the continent.

“Your Majesty, we are also engaged in promising discussions with Google Cloud, one of the world’s leading technology companies.

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The signing: ICT Minister Savannah Maziya and Her Excellency Noura Al Suwaidi, the Secretary General of the General Women’s Union of the UAE together with Her Excellency Hanan Ahli, the Vice Chairperson of the Global Councils, SDG 5, signing the Memorundum of Understanding. (Pic: State Phothographer Bawethu Sihole)