GOOGLE A NICE ‘PLUG’ FOR ESWATINI

Sir,
Electronic government services will eradicate corruption and make life easier. Eswatini has partnered with Google and with this introduction of electronic government services, all citizens will have equal access to government services without the need for bribery. This will create a more transparent and efficient system that will benefit all members of society, not just those who are able to pay bribes. With accessible government services, the partnership will also bring about economic benefits to Eswatini. By streamlining government processes and reducing corruption, businesses will be able to operate more efficiently and effectively. This will attract foreign investment and create a more conducive environment for economic growth.

It will also help to bridge the digital divide in Eswatini. Many citizens in rural areas do not have access to traditional government services due to a lack of infrastructure. By providing these services through electronic devices, even those in remote areas will be able to access government services with ease. This will help to promote inclusivity and ensure that all citizens have equal opportunities to access government services. Furthermore, the digitalisation of government services will also improve the overall quality of life for citizens in Eswatini. With easier access to services such as healthcare and education, citizens will be able to lead healthier and more productive lives. This will also help to reduce poverty and improve overall social well-being in the country.

While the partnership between Eswatini and Google to bring government services to the people through electronic devices is indeed a groundbreaking initiative with numerous benefits, it is important to acknowledge the potential drawbacks that come with such innovation. One of the main disadvantages is the issue of slow network connectivity, which can hinder the smooth operation of electronic government services. In a country like Eswatini, where internet infrastructure may not be as robust compared to other countries, this could pose a significant challenge for citizens trying to access government services online.

Furthermore, there is also the concern that certain segments of the population who are not familiar with using electronic applications may face barriers in utilising these services. This could potentially create a digital divide where certain groups may be excluded from accessing important government services simply due to a lack of technological literacy.
However, despite these drawbacks, it is important to recognise the significant advantages that this partnership brings. One of the key benefits is the potential reduction in instances of long queues and wait times for accessing government services.

As mentioned, obtaining a passport in Eswatini can often be a time-consuming process, with individuals spending hours or even days waiting in line. By transitioning these services to electronic platforms, the partnership has the potential to significantly reduce wait times and streamline processes, making it more convenient for citizens to access the services they need. Additionally, the eradication of corruption through the reduction of human interaction in the delivery of government services is a major advantage that cannot be overlooked. By minimising the need for face-to-face interactions, the partnership can help eliminate the opportunity for bribery and unethical practices, creating a more transparent and accountable system.

In conclusion, while there are potential challenges associated with the introduction of electronic government services in Eswatini, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. By embracing this digital revolution, Eswatini is taking a step towards a more efficient, transparent and inclusive government system that will ultimately benefit all citizens. With proper investment in internet infrastructure and efforts to ensure technological literacy among the population, the partnership with Google has the potential to revolutionise the way government services are accessed and delivered in the country.

Njabulo Ngwenya

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