Eswatini's National Data Centre, operated by the Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP), experienced an incident that has disrupted several government digital services and platforms. The incident, which occurred recently, has affected various online services, including the Government in Your Hand application, e-Visa, company registration, and the government website. According to RSTP Communications Officer Senzo Malaza, engineers and external experts are working to restore the disrupted services.
The incident has impacted several government digital platforms, including the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) and the Elderly Grant Application and Payment system. Malaza confirmed that the organisation is dealing with the incident and has brought in external expertise to assist its engineers. He stated that RSTP engineers, together with experts from external partners, are working around the clock to ensure the interruption is addressed as soon as possible.
The Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) has confirmed that several government web-based services and digital platforms are experiencing outages. The affected services include selected government services available through the Government in Your Hand (GIYH) application, such as online services provided by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade. The Ministry of ICT has engaged a team of technical experts to investigate the outages and establish the circumstances surrounding the disruption.
The team of technical experts is assessing the affected systems and will provide technical findings and recommendations to inform the restoration of services and any necessary corrective measures. The Ministry of ICT has recognised the inconvenience and disruption these outages have caused to citizens, businesses, and other users who rely on government digital services. The ministry is treating the matter with urgency and seriousness.
RSTP has not confirmed allegations circulating on social media that the National Data Centre was hacked or that alleged attackers are demanding a ransom. Malaza apologised to RSTP customers for the inconvenience caused by the interruption and assured them that the organisation remains committed to providing quality services while maintaining a secure environment. He stated that the organisation is working to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
While some government services were affected, RSTP stressed that the disruption has not brought all government services to a standstill. Malaza said that the public can still access some services from government without any challenges. The organisation is working with all relevant entities to address the incident in a holistic manner.
The incident has raised concerns about the security and reliability of Eswatini's digital infrastructure. The government and RSTP are working to resolve the issue and restore the affected services. The incident highlights the importance of investing in robust digital infrastructure and implementing effective measures to prevent and respond to cyber threats.
Key points
- At least 12 government digital services and platforms have been disrupted due to the incident.
- The incident has affected various online services, including the Government in Your Hand application, e-Visa, and company registration.
- RSTP has not confirmed allegations of a hack or ransom demand.
