Eswatini Parliament Embraces Digital Future with AI Training and New Media Plans

Mbabane, Eswatini — Members of the Eswatini Parliament have kicked off the second leg of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Training Programme, marking a significant stride in modernizing the country’s legislative functions.

The initiative was bolstered by an announcement from the Minister for ICT, Honourable Savannah Maziya, who revealed that Parliament, in collaboration with the Ministry of ICT, will launch its own digital studio and television station by the end of 2025. The move is seen as a direct response to His Majesty King Mswati III’s Speech from the Throne, which called on Parliament to bring its work closer to the people.

“This is not just about technology—it’s about transparency, education, and accessibility,” said Hon. Savannah. “We are heeding His Majesty’s call by transforming how Parliament communicates and interacts with citizens.”

The training programme, which aims to equip lawmakers with knowledge on governing emerging technologies such as AI, reflects a broader national push towards digital transformation in governance. The Minister also encouraged Parliamentarians to support the “Government in Your Hand” initiative, which seeks to make public services more accessible through digital platforms.

In a related session, representatives from the Universal Postal Union (UPU), Mr. Juan Moroni and Mr. Juan Ianni, shared insights on how the digital age is impacting traditional postal services. They highlighted challenges and opportunities brought by e-commerce and digital communication, urging policymakers to innovate while ensuring service inclusivity.

The Parliament’s adoption of AI training and plans for a media studio underscore a growing commitment to embracing digital tools in governance and public engagement—a development likely to reshape how policy is communicated and implemented in Eswatini.