Eswatini celebrates Data Protection Day with call for responsible data governance
Date: 2026-01-29
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
Ministry of Information and Communications Technology, in collaboration with
the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM), has hosted a Data Protection
Day event aimed at raising awareness on the importance of safeguarding personal
data as the country advances its digital economy.
Speaking
at the event, the Minister of ICT, Savannah Maziya emphasized that data has
evolved from an abstract concept into a deeply personal asset that now cuts
across borders and industries, driving economic growth and digital innovation.
The Minister noted that while Eswatini continues to open its digital economy to
global opportunities, this must be done with caution and a strong sense of
responsibility.
The
Minister further stressed that economic advancement should not compromise the
privacy and dignity of emaSwati, underscoring the need for robust data
protection practices to build trust in digital systems and services.
Echoing
these sentiments, the Chief Executive of ESCCOM, Prince Mvilawemphi highlighted
that data protection can no longer be viewed solely as a regulatory function.
He noted that protecting personal information is a shared responsibility
involving government, industry, institutions and individual citizens.
The
event concluded with a call for collective action to prioritize data
protection, encourage public sensitization, and promote a culture of
responsible data handling in order to foster a safer and more trusted digital
environment across Eswatini.
