SECTOR 2 Subscribers to the South African satellite broadcaster, DStv, are able to access Swazi TV through the Multichoice bouquet. Channel Swazi broadcasts mainly to the urban areas of Mbabane/Manzini. Internet The high cost of internet connectivity in Swaziland means that it is generally not affordable for most citizens. Broadband comes at a cost of E1,200 ($120) a month, and is considered a luxury, even in the urban areas of Mbabane/Manzini. Internet accessibility in rural areas is very limited. The high cost of accessing the internet via mobile phone is also prohibitive. Wifi is available but is more expensive than a wired connection through the SPTC. Wired connections are generally only available in urban areas. Mobile phones Mobile phone usage is very high in urban and rural areas in Swaziland. Although many people have smart phones in Swaziland, even in rural areas, panellists felt the majority were not using these phones’ features to their full extent due to a “skills challenge”. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 2.9 (2005: 2.9; 2007: 3.1; 2009: 3.3; 2011: 2.8) 2.2 Citizens’ access to domestic and international media sources is not restricted by state authorities To a certain extent, citizens access to local and foreign electronic and broadcasting media sources is not restricted by state authorities. “If you have the resources, you can receive all kinds of foreign channels via DStv, as well as e-tv and the SABC channels.” Access to the print media can be more problematic when the content is in any way controversial and, for example, critical of the Swazi monarchy. The state has been known to ban or buy up all the copies of an edition of the South African 32 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER Swaziland 2014