By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
The Government of Eswatini
has strengthened its digital inclusion efforts through the distribution of
hundreds of smartphones to vulnerable citizens and specialised assistive
technology devices to support learners with visual impairments.
The initiative was
undertaken by the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT)
in partnership with the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) through the
Universal Access Fund.
During a handover ceremony,
the Ministry of ICT presented 474 smartphones to the Deputy Prime Minister’s
Office for distribution to vulnerable citizens across the country. In addition,
13 specialised assistive technology devices were handed over to the Ministry of
Education and Training to support inclusive learning for students with visual
impairments.
The devices include eight
Prodigi Connect 12 units and five BrailleNote Reader 32-cell devices, designed
to enable learners to access educational content, participate more effectively
in classroom activities, and learn independently.
Speaking at the ceremony,
Minister of ICT Senator Savannah Maziya said the initiative demonstrates the
government's commitment to ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the
country’s digital transformation agenda.
She noted that digital
inclusion remains a key pillar of national development and emphasized the
importance of extending the benefits of technology to vulnerable groups and
persons with disabilities.
According to the minister,
the assistive technologies will provide visually impaired learners with greater
access to educational resources and create opportunities for improved academic
performance and participation.
Receiving the devices on
behalf of beneficiaries, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the role of
accessible technologies in promoting independence, dignity, and social
inclusion for persons with disabilities. The Deputy Prime Minister also praised
ESCCOM and the Universal Access Fund for their continued investments in
community development and digital empowerment initiatives.
The Ministry of Education
and Training welcomed the donation, describing the assistive devices as
transformative tools that will enhance inclusive education and expand learning
opportunities for students with visual impairments.
Officials said the
technology will help learners engage with complex educational materials,
participate more actively in classroom environments, and pursue academic
pathways that may previously have been inaccessible.
The Ministry of ICT, ESCCOM,
the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, and the Ministry of Education and Training
reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration aimed at bridging the
digital divide, expanding access to technology, and ensuring that all Emaswati
can participate meaningfully in the digital economy.
