BY LINDELWA DLAMINI
MBABANE – The Ministry of Home Affairs is now in a move to fight corruption within the Ministry by digitising its services.
This was revealed by Minister of Home Affairs Princess Lindiwe on Friday (June 7, 2024) when she met legislators (from both chambers of Parliament) at Sibane Sami Hotel in Ezulwini. The Ministry had organised a workshop for the lawmakers to familiarise them with the work done by the Ministry.
According to information sourced from the Ministry of Home Affairs’ social media pages, Princess Lindiwe revealed ongoing efforts towards the digitisation of the services offered by the Ministry of Home Affairs. This digital transformation is projected to bolster security measures and eradicate corruption within the Ministry’s operations.
Addressing the attendees at the workshop, the Minister of Home Affairs highlighted a series of significant achievements over the past five years. Among these achievements were the successful implementation of the Ngwenya 24-hour border operation and the Mopping-up exercise. Notable progress has been made in the completion of the exercise in the Lubombo and Shiselweni regions. The initiative has now transitioned to the Manzini Region and is set to commence in the Hhohho region next week.
Looking ahead, the Minister shared plans to introduce key legislative measures in the form of the Immigration Bill, among other Bills. She appealed to the members of parliament for their valuable support in the passage of these critical bills, underlining their significance in advancing the mandate of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Speaking during the workshop, Senate President Lindiwe Dlamini expressed gratitude for the informative workshop, recognising the vital role of the Ministry of Home Affairs as the linchpin of a nation. She noted that while the significance of the ministry is universally acknowledged, its importance seems to hold a unique standing in Eswatini.
The Senate president emphasised that the ministry shapes the life trajectory of individuals, from the moment of birth to the final breath—a responsibility that underscored the critical need for unwavering support from stakeholders.
Moreover, the Senate president pledged her commitment to bolstering the digital transformation of the services offered by the Ministry. She highlighted the imperative of digitisation in combating corruption stemming from prolonged queues and administrative inefficiencies.
According to the Ministry, by streamlining processes and leveraging technology, it aims to enhance service delivery, improve accessibility, and fortify the integrity of its operations.
As the workshop concluded, a sense of unity and collaboration resonated among attendees, underlining the shared commitment to advancing the mission of the Ministry of Home Affairs and bolstering the nation’s security infrastructure.
This workshop serves as a testament to the government’s ongoing efforts to engage key stakeholders, foster dialogue, and enhance regulatory frameworks for the collective benefit of society. The engagement not only served to enlighten the committees about the Ministry’s endeavours but also sought to rally crucial support for upcoming initiatives and legislative measures on the horizon.
