Taiwanese company CECI will continue to provide technical and other assistance for the ambitious Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP) project in Swaziland.

The company believes the project, driven by King Mswati III, will transform Swaziland into a center of hi-tech industry and Research & Development.

The project is located in Manzini and CECI was brought in by the country's Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology to conduct a feasibility study, draw up a master plan for its development, as well as design and aid construction.

RSTP project manager Vumile Dlamini visited CECI headquarters in Taipei on the 9th of June 2015 to sign an agreement for the second phase of the project.

In a company statement Dlamini is quoted as saying, "CECI is considered as the role model for carrying out exceptional works for the Park as the schedule and the quality of the construction works of the Park are completed, within the planned schedule.(sic)"

The government has made assurances that once completed, the RSTP will provide opportunities for SMEs in Swaziland to grow. Authorities also believe the project will attract foreign direct investment and help position Swaziland as a premier location for research and development.

Dlamini has released a statement saying "The Royal Science and Technology Park proposes an initial double pronged approach to developing the scientific potential of Swaziland that is, the development of biotechnology and Information Technology industries in tandem."

"Our SMEs will have the opportunity to be nurtured in the ICTC incubation facilities and get support to grow into strong and independent companies."

All attempts by ITWeb Africa to solicit comment from Dlamini, specifically on the extent of participation by Swazi ICT companies in the project, proved unsuccessful.

The Royal Science and Technology Park is expected to be completed by June 2017.