UN Eswatini Joins Ministry of ICT to Explore Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development

The Kingdom of Eswatini hosted its inaugural Artificial Intelligence (AI) Indaba and Annual Research Conference, a collaborative initiative led by the Ministry of Information Communications and Technology (MICT) and the Kingdom of Eswatini Academy of Sciences (KEAS). Held under the theme, "Harnessing Science, Innovation & Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable National Development," the event brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and international partners at the Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini.

Representing the Minister of ICT, the Under Secretary, Ms. Macanjana Motsa, highlighted Eswatini's commitment to transitioning from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy. She emphasized the critical role of innovation, science, and technology in addressing national challenges and driving economic growth. Notable achievements, such as the enactment of the 2023 National Research Council Act and the redefinition of the Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP) as an innovation agency, were underscored as transformative milestones.

UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. George Wachira, reinforced the importance of AI as a tool for addressing Eswatini’s socio-economic challenges, including high youth unemployment, poverty, and food insecurity. He called for strategic investments in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), and emphasized leveraging Eswatini’s youthful population for innovation-driven development. Wachira also shared UN-backed initiatives like the Youth Leadership and Sustainable Energy Academy (YLSEA) and smart agriculture projects that integrate AI technologies to optimize productivity,

The event featured panel discussions, paper presentations, and an awards segment recognizing scientific excellence, including the prestigious Scientist of the Year Award. Attendees included representatives from the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) of South Africa, and researchers from various institutions.

Looking ahead, Ms. Motsa announced plans for the development of Eswatini’s National AI Strategy and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Strategy in the 2024/2025 fiscal year. These frameworks will guide Eswatini’s integration of AI into key sectors like education, health, and agriculture to foster sustainable development.

The conference underscored Eswatini’s determination to harness the transformative power of AI, fostering collaboration across academia, government, and industry to position the nation as a leader in innovation within the region.