STATE OF PRESS FREEDOM IN SOUTHERN AFRICA REPORT 2021 36 However, there were still some publications that managed to produce quality journalism in the face of the threats during the deadly protests. There was also commendable work during the period by the state-owned eSwatini Observer and the eSwatini Broadcasting Information (EBIS) that covered the protests within their own limitations. INTERNET ACCESS AND AFFORDABILITY According to the Datarepoportal’s 2021 report, internet penetration in eSwatini stood at 47 percent of the population. (5) The number of mobile phone connections was at 99 percent of the population in January 2020. Social media penetration was at a lowly 23 percent. The number of internet users remains low because the majority of the population cannot afford highly priced smart phones and high data tariffs. MEDIA REGULATION The effectiveness of civil society, including unions representing journalists, has over the years been curtailed by the tough political environment in eSwatini. There have been calls to strengthen the capacity of existing media bodies so that they can effectively represent the interests of journalists and offer media workers protection in light of the clampdowns witnessed in the last two years. SURVEILLANCE AND PRIVACY OF ONLINE COMMUNICATION The Kingdom of eSwatini has no law that specifically deals with privacy and data protection, but there are two proposed laws on the cards namely the Computer Crime and Cyber Crime Bill of 2020 and the Data Protection Bill of 2020. The government has repeatedly denied accusations that it intends to use the proposed laws to limit freedom of expression and muzzle the media, but the Cyber and Crime Bill seeks to criminalise what the government says is “fake news that is damaging to the country.” Critics say once it becomes law, the legislation could see online news sites, even Facebook and Twitter users, being targeted. INDEPENDENT CONTENT PRODUCERS Independent content producers in eSwatini lack a viable market for their content as the country has only one television station, eSwatini TV. The national broadcaster collects money for TV licences, but has no budget for content producers. Content producers, like journalists, also have to navigate a treacherous environment characterised by draconian legislation.