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By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Minister of Information Communication and Technology (ICT), Savannah Maziya, in a voice of the Principal Secretary, Phesheya Dube, delivered an inspiring speech at the Code for Care Healthcare Hackathon, emphasizing the transformative power of technology in addressing the pressing challenges in Eswatini’s healthcare sector.
Held at the Royal Science and Technology Park, the event showcased the innovative potential of the nation’s youth in developing solutions that have the capacity to improve lives and healthcare access.
9 students were awarded internship awards and prizes out of 64 who had participated.
Minister Maziya expressed appreciation for the collaboration with Georgetown University’s Centre for Global Health Practice and Impact, noting their significant contributions towards enhancing healthcare accessibility in Eswatini.
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“Your partnership and support of our Ministry’s vision is unparalleled,” she stated. The Minister highlighted initiatives such as automated medication dispensing lockers as crucial advancements for vulnerable populations.
The Hackathon, focused on user-centered digital health solutions, sought to tackle the unique barriers faced by adolescent girls and young women in accessing healthcare.
Minister Maziya praised the creative minds involved, stating, “Through creative solutions that improve patient data management, enhance disease surveillance, and promote telemedicine, your projects reflect the kind of forward-thinking approach that is essential to addressing Eswatini’s healthcare challenges.”
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering an environment that nurtures innovation, stating, “Technology is a pivotal driver in healthcare delivery, and through it, we can enhance the well-being of our communities.
” She noted that initiatives outlined in the Eswatini Digitalisation Strategy aim to empower citizens by making government services more accessible and efficient.
While acknowledging the challenges of maximizing the potential of these technologies among the youth in underserved communities, she asserted that the Hackathon was a vital platform for innovation and the realization of impactful digital solutions.
“This Hackathon provides the perfect platform to innovate around these challenges. By harnessing digital tools, we can make impactful strides in healthcare access, delivery, and awareness,” she explained.
Highlighting the importance of mentorship, Minister Maziya urged the Royal Science and Technology Park to extend support to the innovators beyond the competition.
“Whether you are developing applications to enhance patient care or tools to improve data management, each of you has the potential to make a remarkable impact,” she encouraged.
In a call to action, the Minister announced that Eswatini has been invited to participate in the prestigious GovTech Prize and the Global Best M-Gov Award competitions.
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“This is a unique platform to showcase your creativity and technological solutions on a global stage, affirming that Eswatini is indeed a hub of innovative talent,” she urged the youth.
The top three student teams will be awarded prizes of $50,000, $25,000, and $10,000, respectively.
As her speech concluded, Minister Maziya acknowledged the hard work of all participants and expressed hope that their success would inspire others. “Together, let us push the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare and lead Eswatini into a new era of digital transformation,” she declared.
The Code for Care Healthcare Hackathon not only highlighted the innovative spirit of Eswatini’s youth but also served as a testament to the nation’s commitment to leveraging technology for a healthier and more inclusive future.
