LOBAMBA – Minister of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Savannah Maziya has revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has offered to provide Eswatini with a mobile application (App) aimed at protecting minors from exposure to explicit online content.
She made the revelation during the debate of her ministry’s second quarter performance report in Parliament yesterday.
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This development follows growing concern over reports of minors, some as young as nine and ten, being increasingly exposed to inappropriate material and online exploitation.
Lubombo Region Member of Parliament Futhi Ngcamphalala urged the ministry to strengthen measures that safeguard children from harmful digital content. While commending the ministry’s ongoing efforts to expand internet access across the country, Ngcamphalala highlighted that connectivity costs remain prohibitively high in rural areas.
“I am from the Lubombo region, and many people in rural areas still do not have access to the internet. Since assuming office, we have been discussing the lack of connectivity, yet nothing tangible has been achieved, many Emaswati remain unconnected,” she said.
The MP further noted that inadequate access coupled with unregulated digital spaces leaves children particularly vulnerable to exploitation and exposure to explicit content.
In response, Minister Maziya acknowledged the disparities in internet access nationwide and confirmed that her ministry is exploring options, including a potential loan, to secure additional funding for full national connectivity.
“We are aware of the connectivity challenges and are actively working to bridge the gap,” she assured.
On the issue of child protection, the minister stated that as part of Eswatini’s recent agreements with the UAE, discussions included the introduction of a dedicated application designed to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate online material.
“Part of the agreements signed with the UAE includes an App that will assist in protecting our children from explicit online content,” she said.
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