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26 March 2024
United Nations and AeTrade Forge New Partnerships for Youth Empowerment and Job Creation in Eswatini
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Speech
18 March 2024
Remarks by the UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. George Wachira, at the Development Policy Dialogue Series Roundtable on Enabling Policies for Financing Sustainable Development and Enhancing Poverty Reduction.
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18 March 2024
Roundtable on Enabling Policies for Financing Sustainable Development and Enhancing Poverty Reduction
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Eswatini
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Eswatini:
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22 February 2024
Government launches Hlonipheka - Thriving for Dignity Programme for GBV survivors and persons with disabilities
Close to 400 survivors of gender-based violence in Eswatini, along with approximately 1500 persons with disabilities, are set to benefit from the Hlonipheka – Thriving for Dignity programme, valued at nearly E11 million. This initiative, supported by the European Union and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), aims to address the pressing issue of gender-based violence and empower vulnerable communities in Eswatini, including persons with disabilities.Hlonipheka, meaning dignity in Siswati, was officially launched by the Deputy Prime Minister, Sen. Thulisile Dladla, represented by Ambassador. Melusi Masuku, Principal Secretary of the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, at the UN House in Mbabane on 21 February 2024. Highlighting the urgency of the project, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized its timeliness in light of the recent surge in cases of gender-based violence across the country.Over the course of three years, the project will implement various interventions, including the empowerment of 200 caregivers and family members of children with disabilities, as well as training of 80 service providers and counsellors in safe spaces. Additionally, 700 policymakers, including Members of Parliament, Tindvuna Tetinkhundla, service providers (healthcare workers, teachers, and community members), will undergo training and sensitization on their roles in supporting the programme's objectives.The overarching goal of Hlonipheka is to foster safe communities that actively promote social justice and protect the rights of women, girls, and persons with disabilities. It is anticipated that the programme will lead to significant improvements in the human rights and overall well-being of survivors of gender-based violence and persons with disabilities in Eswatini.Recent data underscores the critical need for initiatives like Hlonipheka, with statistics revealing that one in four females and nearly one in three males aged 13-24 years in Eswatini have experienced some form of violence. Moreover, between 2020 and 2022, the country witnessed a troubling 22% increase in gender-based violence cases.EU Ambassador Ms. Dessislava Choumelova echoed His Majesty King Mswati III's call for increased resources to combat gender-based violence, emphasizing the EU's commitment to investing in human capital and social cohesion. The EU's contribution of EUR 500,000 (SZL 10,260,000) towards the project demonstrates its dedication to supporting initiatives that address pressing social issues.Ms. Lydia Zigomo, UNFPA Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, highlighted the widespread prevalence of violence against women and girls globally, emphasizing the need for collective action to combat this human rights abuse. In Eswatini, data reveals significant disparities in decision-making power, with 51% of women lacking autonomy in crucial areas such as sexual consent, contraception use, and healthcare decision-making.Mr. George Wachira, UN Resident Coordinator, stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to achieve the project's objectives effectively. He expressed gratitude to the Deputy Prime Minister for her strong leadership on GBV in line with the directives of His Majesty the king, and thanked civil society, the media, the private sector and international partners for speaking up strongly on the issue. Mr. Wachira thanked the EU for its continued partnership with the UN, locally and globally, in delivering sustainable development programmes, recognizing the vital role of financial support in driving positive change.The Hlonipheka – Thriving for Dignity project represents a significant step forward in addressing gender-based violence and promoting the rights of vulnerable communities in Eswatini. Through collaboration and concerted efforts, it is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of survivors and persons with disabilities, fostering a more equitable and just society for all.
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20 February 2024
Young Women Economic Empowerment Project gives young women in Eswatini the tools to run successful businesses
Phumelele Manana, a 28-year-old entrepreneur from Mweni in Eswatini’s Mbheka area in the Manzini Region, formalised her family business in 2022 with the help of the Young Women Empowerment Project. Phumelele inherited the family piggery business from her father, who she also credits for her business acumen. After inviting her to work in the business with him for several years, her father fully handed over the business to her in 2022. Phumelele is now the sole owner of the business that raises and sells pigs.
She joined the UNAIDS-supported Young Women Economic Empowerment Project in 2022 to upskill herself to take the business to the next level. At the time she, her two children, and the rest of her immediate family depended on the income her father generated from the business as her livelihood. Although this sustained the business, which only had access to their local community as it is market, it was not thriving. Other challenges also added to the shortage of operational funds. Phumelele recalls how they would take all the money from the business to provide for the family’s needs without investing any of it back into the business. As a result, the business would be short of money to buy more stock and feed, and its growth stunted.
When Phumelele heard about the Young Women Economic Empowerment project in her village she immediately applied to participate. She enrolled in the 5-day Entrepreneurship and Business management course, which made her eligible for a grant to start her own business after completion. The course taught her how to start and formalise her business, manage business resources and cash flow, and identify new markets.
Using the grant, she got from Swaziland Network of Young Positives (SNYP), Phumelele decided to formalise the business. Using the skills, she acquired from the training and the continued mentorship from YSPN, she secured six months' worth of feed for her pigs. This injection of resources allowed her to expand her operations and purchase additional pigs for slaughter. Phumelele was also able to expand her market beyond her community. In addition to her hometown of Mweni, she now sells to neighbouring communities as well. She has seen a surge in the profits of her business which has brought financial stability and security to her family. She also saves at least 400 Swazi Lilangeni (about $21) monthly for her business.
The Young Women Economic Empowerment programme did not only grow Phumelele’s business, but also contributed to her personal development. Motivated to put action to her dreams, she decided to study further, using her earnings from the business. In 2023 she enrolled in a 6-months plumbing course which she completed and got experience from doing her practicals with a local company. She is now awaiting to do her trade test which will certify her as a plumber. Her future is marked by clear goals and unwavering determination, one of those being to acquire her own assets such as a vehicle and house, over the next five years.
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26 March 2024
United Nations and AeTrade Forge New Partnerships for Youth Empowerment and Job Creation in Eswatini
The United Nations Country Team in Eswatini and the delegation from the Africa Electronic Trade Group (AeTrade), led by Founder and CEO Mr. Mulualem Syoum, convened at the UN House to discuss future collaborations aimed at leveraging digital transformation for economic empowerment, job creation, and the promotion of sustainable development within the Kingdom of Eswatini.The United Nations Country Team in Eswatini and the delegation from the Africa Electronic Trade Group (AeTrade), led by Founder and CEO Mr. Mulualem Syoum, convened at the UN House to discuss future collaborations aimed at leveraging digital transformation for economic empowerment, job creation, and the promotion of sustainable development within the Kingdom of Eswatini.The historic meeting, underscored by a shared vision for innovative solutions to address unemployment and foster economic growth, highlighted the critical role of youth and technology in driving forward the nation's development agenda. Dr. Susan Tembo, the UN Resident Coordinator ad interim, warmly welcomed the AeTrade delegation, acknowledging the significance of their visit as a cornerstone for collaboration between AeTrade and the United Nations in Eswatini.During the meeting, Ms. Margaret Thwala-Tembe, UNPFA Head of Office, provided an overview of the UN Youth Initiative, emphasizing the commitment to young Emaswati and the potential areas for joint efforts in youth economic empowerment, education, and health. Mr. Syoum presented the groundbreaking work of AeTrade in creating a trading platform that eliminates barriers for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa, with a special focus on empowering youth and women through digital access and financial services.The discussions centered on the vast opportunities for synergy between the UN's initiatives and AeTrade's platform to harness digital economy benefits for Eswatini's youth. The dialogue led to identifying potential areas of collaboration, particularly in advancing the One UN Youth Offer, which seeks to provide comprehensive support across economic empowerment, education, skills development, and health and wellbeing for young Emaswati.Reflecting on the meeting, Dr. Susan Tembo remarked, "This partnership signifies a promising future for the youth of Eswatini, where digital innovation and collective effort can pave the way for inclusive and sustainable development. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead with AeTrade in empowering our youth to not only participate in but also to lead in the digital economy." Mr. Syoum expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "AeTrade is committed to transforming the digital landscape in Africa to promote job creation and entrepreneurship among the youth. Our partnership with the United Nations in Eswatini is a pivotal step towards realizing our shared goals of economic empowerment and sustainable development."The meeting concluded with a commitment to explore concrete steps towards operationalizing the discussed collaborations, with both parties expressing optimism for the impact these efforts will have on the youth and the broader socio-economic landscape in Eswatini.
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18 March 2024
Roundtable on Enabling Policies for Financing Sustainable Development and Enhancing Poverty Reduction
In a landmark collaboration between the Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE) and the United Nations (UN), key policymakers, international development experts, and stakeholders convened at the Happy Valley Hotel for a roundtable forum on "Enabling Policies for Financing Sustainable Development and Enhancing Poverty Reduction" on 18 March 2024.This critical dialogue, co-hosted by Dr. Phil Mnisi, Governor of the Central Bank of Eswatini, and Mr. George Wachira, UN Resident Coordinator, aimed at addressing the pressing challenges and opportunities in financing sustainable development and poverty eradication within Eswatini and globally.Dr. Mnisi highlighted the domestic economic progress, acknowledging a growth path with a real GDP increase by 3.0% q-to-q and 7.7% y-on-y in Q3 of 2023, and projected growths of 4.6% in 2024 and 3.4% in 2025. Despite these positive indicators, he emphasized the need for policies that augment growth and tackle poverty, underlining the significance of collaboration in revitalizing the economy and exploring sustainable finance strategies amidst challenges like geopolitical tensions and the lingering effects of COVID-19.Mr. Wachira's welcome remarks stressed the UN's role in supporting nations like Eswatini through guidance, expertise, and the promotion of sustainable financial management. He outlined the UN's commitment to assisting in developing policies and frameworks that ensure long-term sustainability, particularly in the face of changing energy production needs and climate change risks.The roundtable forum served as a platform for sharing experiences, discussing policy measures, and exploring innovative financing mechanisms. Themes such as Priority Sector Lending, Just Energy Transition, and Climate Financing were central to the discussions, with a focus on strategic investments that could catalyze economic development, job creation, and environmental sustainability.Governor Mnisi and Mr. Wachira jointly underscored the importance of shared vision and harmonious collaboration among all stakeholders to foster inclusive growth and address critical areas such as rural development, employment generation, and sustainable energy, ensuring environmental safeguards.As Eswatini and the global community strive towards the Sustainable Development Goals, the forum marked a significant step towards leveraging policy tools and frameworks to enable financing for sustainable development. The collaborative efforts of the Central Bank of Eswatini and the United Nations signal a promising path forward in building a prosperous, sustainable future for all.
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08 March 2024
Kingdom of Eswatini Unveils National Strategy for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Implementation 2024–2028
In a significant milestone for Eswatini and the African continent, the Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini, with support from the Economic Commission of Africa, Sub-regional Office for Southern Africa, officially launched the National AfCFTA Implementation Strategy and Plan for 2024–2028 on 7 March 2024. This groundbreaking initiative aims to harness the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement, fostering economic growth, industrialization, and integration into regional and continental value chains.The launch event, marked by the attendance of distinguished guests and stakeholders from across the continent, underscored Eswatini’s commitment to leveraging the AfCFTA for national and continental prosperity. Acting Hon Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Hon. Dr. Thambo E. Gina (MP), highlighted the strategic importance of the AfCFTA to Eswatini's broader development framework, especially in enhancing the trade policy environment. "We look forward to using this National AfCFTA Implementation Strategy as a tool to promote and increase our trade within the African continent and beyond, attract investment, stimulate industrialization, promote productivity, and enable Eswatini businesses to partake in national, regional, and continental value chains," said Hon. Gina.The strategy is structured around seven strategic objectives aimed at maximizing Eswatini’s benefits under the AfCFTA. These include increasing and diversifying local production, developing export readiness programs for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), improving access to finance, enhancing border management, sector-specific support, business climate improvements, and developing a competitive services sector to attract investment and diversify exports.Mr. Mphumelelo Makhubu, a representative of the private sector from Business Eswatini, expressed the private sector's enthusiasm for the strategy, noting that "the AfCFTA provides a path to achieve that growth and indeed it is a path to inclusive growth and resilience."UN Eswatini's Resident Coordinator, Mr. George Wachira, commended Eswatini's leadership and proactive measures in embracing the AfCFTA, describing it as "a beacon of hope for a united and prosperous Africa." He added: "As we celebrate the launch of the National #AfCFTA Implementation Strategy, let us renew our commitment to a collaborative and coordinated approach that ensures the fruits of this monumental agreement are realized by all." The National AfCFTA Implementation Strategy for the Kingdom of Eswatini represents a significant step towards realizing the vision of a more integrated and prosperous Africa. It sets a commendable precedent for the continent, emphasizing collaboration, coordination, and inclusive growth.About the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA):
The AfCFTA is a landmark trade agreement aimed at creating the world's largest free trade area by integrating 1.3 billion people across 55 countries with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at $3.4 trillion. It seeks to boost intra-African trade by reducing tariffs and creating a single market for goods and services, thereby fostering economic growth and industrialization across the continent.
The AfCFTA is a landmark trade agreement aimed at creating the world's largest free trade area by integrating 1.3 billion people across 55 countries with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at $3.4 trillion. It seeks to boost intra-African trade by reducing tariffs and creating a single market for goods and services, thereby fostering economic growth and industrialization across the continent.
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31 January 2024
Government, UN, and Partners Review Progress of UN Programmes in Eswatini
Ezulwini, January 31, 2024 - The Government of Eswatini and the United Nations Joint National Steering Committee (J-NSC) convened for a high-level meeting at the Royal Villas, Ezulwini, to assess the advancement of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF 2021-2025).
The J-NSC serves as the foundation for the UN's accountability to the Government and the people of Eswatini. The annual review of the Cooperation Framework, aimed at contributing to "a prosperous, just, and resilient Eswatini where no one is left behind," was conducted through four Results Groups aligned with the strategic document's four outcome areas:
Promoting Sustainable and Inclusive Economic Growth
Investing in Human Resources and Social Development
Accountable Governance, Justice, and Human Rights
Strengthening Natural Resource Management, Climate Resilience, and Environmental Sustainability
Seventeen UN agencies, coordinated by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, collaboratively implement the Cooperation Framework in partnership with the Government, development partners, civil society, private sector, and other sectors.
Dr. Thambo Gina, Minister of Economic Planning and Development, who co-chairs the committee with UN Resident Coordinator Mr. George Wachira officially opened the meeting.
Dr. Gina highlighted the meeting's significance, aligning with the Government's programme of action for the next five years, post the people’s parliament (Sibaya) and Cabinet deliberations.
Acknowledging the importance of international cooperation, Dr. Gina emphasized its role in assisting Eswatini in achieving Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He expressed confidence that Eswatini will make substantial progress in SDG targets by 2030, particularly in achieving 100 percent electrification and potable water access.
Mr. Wachira, the UN Resident Coordinator, emphasized the Cooperation Framework's role as the cornerstone of the UN's accountability to the Government and people of Eswatini. He extended appreciation to partners for their contributions while highlighting the challenges faced by middle-income countries like Eswatini, such as the reduction in Overseas Development Aid (ODA) and the impact of global challenges, including COVID-19, conflicts, and climate change emergencies.
Recognizing the evolving development funding landscape, Mr. Wachira underscored the UN's commitment to supporting Eswatini through integrated financing assessments and policies. He mentioned ongoing discussions with the Central Bank of Eswatini to co-host a roundtable discussion in March 2024 on policy instruments such as priority sector lending.
The meeting drew senior Government officials, development partners, civil society, academia, private sector representatives, and individuals with disabilities, reflecting a comprehensive engagement in the development process. UN heads of agencies, resident and non-resident, including their technical staff were also part of the meeting.
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16 January 2024
UNCT presents at Cabinet Retreat
On 16 January 2024, the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Eswatini, led by the UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. George Wachira, engaged with Government at the Cabinet Retreat to discuss on-going cooperation to accelerating UN support to national priorities and the 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Mr. Wachira commended the Government on the remarkable efforts to respond to the citizens' submissions of the People’s Parliament. “The concerted efforts to address shortages of essential medicines, ensure smooth school enrolment, strong messaging on gender-based violences, response to the frequent storm disasters, among others, will go a long way in demonstrating a caring and responsible government,” he told a Cabinet Retreat attended by the Prime Minister, Cabinet, Principal Secretaries and Senior Government Officials, held at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini.
There is total of 17 resident and non-resident agencies which are supporting the Government of Eswatini through the UN-Government Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for the period 2021-2025, which was signed by the entire cabinet in 2020.
The UN Resident Coordinator committed to supporting Government with systems thinking as an answer to complexity in response to on-going uncertainty across the globe, including reduced funding for countries that are considered to be middle-income. “If, for example, the answer to reducing poverty is wealth creation, then the entire system must be geared towards the goal – the education system and its relation to employability, training and skills; the investment and trade policies; policies to facilitate the digital economy and the creativity of the young generation; niche location in the regional value chains; our immigration policy and how it may attract or hinder investments; our land policy; access to affordable finance by all, and so on,” he stated.
He also suggested support for greater coordination of Government departments through a Whole of Government Approach and helping with strategic foresight as an answer to uncertainty. “The idea of identifying trends that are driving or likely to drive change, how they may interact in each time horizon, their possible implications for our development and investment pathways into the future, and how these may interrogate the choices we make today. Strategic foresight can be broad, or sector-specific,” he said.
The UN presented five areas of support, including a need to create linkages between education, skills, and employability of young people through an integrated youth programme. The UN also made proposals to help the Government with making choices for just energy transitions and green financing. In health systems strengthening, the UN committed to providing quality health care through established procurement platforms in UN agencies such as WHO, UNICEF and UNFPA.
The Prime Minister, Mr. Russell Dlamini, expressed appreciation to the Resident Coordinator and UN team for preparing clear proposals for supporting the Government to implement national priorities. “We have noted your proposals on systems thinking which is also our approach for tackling challenges faced by the country,” he said. “We look forward to working with the UN in undertaking assessments and analysis of how we can speed up implementation of our existing plans.”
The UNCT was represented by heads of agencies for primarily resident agencies, including IOM, FAO, UNAIDS, UNICEF, UNESCO, UNDP, UNFPA, WFP, and WHO.
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Press Release
14 March 2024
UN Lauds Eswatini for Global Leadership in Women Representation in 2023 Elections
The United Nations in Eswatini has applauded Eswatini’s recognition for increased women representation in parliament. In its report, the International Parliamentary Union has recognized Eswatini as one of the top performers globally for increased women representation in the 2023 elections.Eswatini recorded the highest progress in women’s representation among countries that held elections around the world in 2023, with a 20-percentage-point increase in its upper chamber, the Senate. Overall, Eswatini was ranked third at 14.4% for both upper and lower houses after Benin and Sierra Leone, with increases of 18.5 and 15.9 percentage points respectively.UN Resident Coordinator in Eswatini, Mr. George Wachira, commended the country's leadership and its people for their concerted efforts towards achieving gender parity in Parliament. Mr. Wachira noted that His Majesty King Mswati III personally advocated for the election of more women to Parliament when he dissolved parliament in July 2023 ahead of the September elections. "Eswatini's performance in the 2023 elections is a testament to the power of strong leadership and the willingness of its citizens to embrace progress. His Majesty's direct appeal has been instrumental in achieving this milestone This achievement serves as a shining example to the world of what can be accomplished when leadership and citizens unite for a common cause,” stated Mr. Wachira.However, the journey towards gender equality does not end here. Mr. Wachira emphasized the importance of sustaining this momentum and extending it beyond the parliamentary level. "The great progress is still relative compared to global standards and aspirations. It is crucial that we continue to strive for increased women representation across all levels of the electoral process, including the local government elections. This will ensure that we retain a strong base for women’s leadership and that women's voices are heard and their perspectives are integrated into the national development agenda from the ground up," he added, pointing out that the SADC 50-50 gender parity aspiration is within Eswatini’s reach.
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Press Release
12 February 2024
UN Eswatini applauds Speech From the Throne
His Majesty's speech spanned several critical issues which are key in improving the welfare of the people and progress of the Kingdom and demonstrate a resolve to address the concerns raised by citizens at Sibaya last year. His Majesty also reaffirmed Eswatini’s commitment to global agendas, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union Agenda 2063.
The UN notes in particular His Majesty’s focus on the need to grow the economy; bolstering infrastructure development, particularly in ICT; improving the business environment especially for SMEs; resolving the challenges hindering access to quality healthcare; tackling youth unemployment through quality education, entrepreneurship and skills development; ensuring energy security; addressing climate change, environmental management and disaster preparedness; the establishment of the Agriculture Development Fund; and combatting corruption. Yet again, His Majesty spoke clearly and strongly about ending the scourge of gender-based violence.
As the Government takes up the task of translating into programmes and implementing the directives contained in His Majesty’s speech, the United Nations remains steadfast in its commitment to support Eswatini’s vision of a prosperous and sustainable future in line with the objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2021-2025.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Mr. Sibusiso Mngadi, RCO Communications Coordinator
Email: Sibusiso.mngadi@un.org | Tel: 2409 6615 | Mobile: 7806 9042
Mr. Sibusiso Mngadi, RCO Communications Coordinator
Email: Sibusiso.mngadi@un.org | Tel: 2409 6615 | Mobile: 7806 9042
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Press Release
08 February 2024
UN Country Team Hosts Minister of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) at the UN House
The session delved into the multifaceted contributions of ICT towards revolutionizing the entire development and economic value chain. Attended by a cohort of heads of UN agencies and technical experts specializing in ICT-related programmes and mandates, the UN team included representatives of UNICEF, UNDP, UNESCO, UNFPA, and ITU.. The ITU Regional Director for Africa Ms. Anne-Rachel Inné, and UNESCO’s Regional Director and Representative, Ms. Nisha Arunatialke, participated virtually.
In his remarks, the UN Resident Coordinator underscored the cross-cutting significance of digital transformation across all the areas of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2021-2025). This framework outlines a shared commitment between the Government and the UN in Eswatini towards fostering a prosperous, just, and resilient nation where inclusivity is paramount. He further indicated that digital connectivity provides a key investment pathway with positive knock-on effects on several other sectors and SDGs including employment creation and entrepreneurship.
Furthermore, ongoing initiatives supported by various UN agencies were highlighted, encompassing endeavours such as bolstering policy and regulatory frameworks for digital transformation, nurturing digital skills among youth, and enhancing public service delivery through robust ICT infrastructure.
Minister Maziya expressed gratitude for the UN's role in the country’s development journey, and for taking a special interest in technology and digital advancement. Emphasizing the necessity of forging collaborative partnerships to spearhead Eswatini's economic transformation via ICT, she championed the idea that the country's modest size should be leveraged as an advantage rather than a hindrance. "Attaining first-world status is within our grasp through digital transformation," she affirmed. "We must lead the change in the ICT sphere by fostering alliances with the private sector and development partners." The minister expressed optimism that Eswatini has what it takes to be a leader in the region with ICT as a driver for development. She highlighted the need to ensure that the education curriculum stays in step with technological advancements to avoid Eswatini being left behind in the age of algorithms and artificial intelligence.
The meeting underscored the imperative of coordinated efforts and partnerships to propel the nation towards meaningful digital transformation, enhancing the efficacy of diverse sectors including manufacturing, energy, and natural resource management. Minister Maziya stressed the importance of embracing automation in manufacturing while concurrently empowering individuals with requisite skills to ensure they remain integral to the evolving landscape.
Recognizing the dynamic nature of digital development, the meeting emphasized the need for periodic reassessment of educational models to ensure their continued relevance.
Moving forward, the Ministry of ICT is keen on continuing the engagement with the UN to sustain ongoing support initiatives and explore other avenues of collaboration.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Mr. Sibusiso Mngadi, RCO Communications Coordinator
Email: Sibusiso.mngadi@un.org | Tel: 2409 6615 | Mobile: 7806 9042
Ms. Gugu Nkambule, Ministry of ICT Communications Officer
Email: nkambuleg@gmail.com | Tel: 2405 4000 Mobile: 7625 2871
About United Nations Country Team (UNCT):
The UNCT in Eswatini is comprised of 17 UN agencies, including non-resident agencies, working in collaboration with the Government to support national development priorities, including the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Press Release
04 December 2023
Public Notice
The United Nations System in the Kingdom of Eswatini has received several public enquiries regarding an entity going by the name “United Nations and Religions World Organisation.”
The United Nations in Eswatini wishes to advise the public that the said entity is not a part of or affiliated with the United Nations, and the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator has advised the Eswatini authorities accordingly.
The United Nations in Eswatini further notes that the use of the United Nations name as part of the entity’s name and the use of the olive branches from the United Nations emblem as part of the entity’s logo have not been authorised.
The UN wishes to clarify that UN recruitments are always undertaken through official, publicly advertised processes, including UN websites, or known social media sites. The UN does not charge any fee at any stage of its recruitment processes and does not request any banking details from candidates.
For more information, contact:
Sibusiso Mngadi – Coordination Officer, Communications & Advocacy
Tel: 2409 6615 Mobile: 7806 9042 Email: sibusiso.mngadi@un.org
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Press Release
10 November 2023
United Nations Statement on violence against women
The United Nations Family in Eswatini is appalled by the acts of gruesome violence against women which have resulted in the loss of lives and horrendous injuries in the recent past. On 28 October alone, five women were shot, with four dying on the spot, and one reported to be still fighting for her life in intensive care.
The UN Family in Eswatini conveys its deepest condolences to His Majesty’s Government and the families that have been affected by these unacceptable acts perpetrated by men.
The UN condemns violence of all forms and continues to stand with the women and girls who suffer it, often at the hands of those they consider as loved ones.
Violence against women and girls is one of the most prevalent human rights violations worldwide. It knows no social, economic or national boundaries and undermines the health, dignity, security of its survivors, yet remains shrouded in a culture of indifference.
Every year, 25 November commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and marks the start of the “16 Days of Activism” ending on International Human Rights Day on 10 December. This year’s campaign coincides with the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the document which enshrines inalienable rights that every human being is entitled to at birth regardless of race, gender, identity or any other identifier. That includes women.
As we plan this year’s campaign, I urge that it does not become just another routine observance on our calendar. Rather, I call on all stakeholders to take time to reflect on our commitments to end the scourge of violence against women and girls. I urge all men to join the fight to end the scourge. I urge that we give meaning to this year’s campaign by pledging to be the change that we want, by reminding each other that women are human beings, not objects, and have rights that we all must speak out for and protect. Let us act now. Let us change the tide.
Statement Released on behalf of the United Nations by
H.E. George Wachira
UN Resident Coordinator
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