(Ecofin Agency) - Digital transformation is one of the top priorities for Eswatini’s government. As part of this effort, the government announced a partnership with Google in January 2025.

Eswatini has officially entered the 5G era. The state-owned telco Eswatini Mobile announced it on March 24. This step is part of a broader push by the government to speed up digital transformation and make digital services faster, more efficient, and easier to access.

“This isn’t just about faster internet,” the company said in a press release. “The arrival of 5G signals a major shift in how Emaswati connect, communicate, and do business. From improving education opportunities and powering economic growth to driving innovation and empowering communities, 5G is set to change daily life across the country.”

5G technology is expected to deliver internet speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, along with much lower delays and stronger network capabilities. These features open the door to next-level applications, from real-time connections to advanced tech tools that could transform key sectors like health, education, and agriculture. That is according to a 2021 study by U.S.-based tech company Dell Technologies, which said 5G will be a key enabler of digital change.

Despite the rollout, Eswatini still has work to do to catch up globally. In the 2024 UN e-Government Development Index, the kingdom ranked 113th out of all countries, with a score of 0.6081 out of 1. That puts it above the African average (0.4247) but still below the global average (0.6382).

A 2024 report by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) describes Eswatini’s digital readiness as “systematic,” meaning the country is moving forward in a structured way, focusing on clear priorities. With a digital development score of 2.6, the report shows progress in several key areas, while also pointing out gaps that need more investment and attention.

Right now, 5G coverage in Eswatini is limited to the cities of Matsapha and Manzini. Rolling out 5G nationwide will not be cheap. According to Swedish telecom giant Ericsson, deploying 5G infrastructure in a single country can cost anywhere from $3 billion to $8 billion. After that, expanding coverage to reach more people typically requires another 20–35% in additional investment.

Another challenge is making sure people can actually use the technology. Accessing 5G requires smartphones that are 5G-ready, and those devices are still too expensive for many. Without more affordable options, adoption may stay low, which would slow down the use of both government and private digital services, including those from startups.

Still, launching 5G is a major step forward for Eswatini—and a sign that the country is serious about building a more connected, digital future.