By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) has been commended for its role in helping the nation minimize the spread of COVID-19 through stringent health measures and a proactive approach to cleanliness.
During a visit to the HMCS Correctional Centre in Matsapha, Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula praised the organization for prioritizing the health of correctional officers, inmates, and other stakeholders.
“The Ministry of Health collaborated effectively with HMCS throughout the pandemic. We are pleased to note that there was no significant outbreak of COVID-19 in your facilities despite the congregate living environment,” Matsebula remarked. He highlighted the training provided to healthcare workers within correctional centers and the strict adherence to infection prevention protocols as key to this success.
The minister expressed gratitude for HMCS leadership’s swift action in seeking guidance and support from the Ministry of Health and other partners during the pandemic. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with HMCS, emphasizing the importance of universal health coverage (UHC).
“Our Ministry values every individual’s health equally, regardless of race, gender, geography, or social status. UHC means that everyone should access necessary health services without financial hardship,” Matsebula stated.
He further lauded the longstanding partnership between the Ministry of Health and HMCS, which has resulted in notable achievements in controlling diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and malaria. Matsebula specifically mentioned the “Nkwe” approach adopted by HMCS during the implementation of programs to combat HIV/AIDS and TB.
Healthcare workers from HMCS clinics actively participated in training and shared knowledge with their peers, which the minister credited with protecting inmates from the severe impacts of these diseases.
“This collaborative spirit has positioned the Kingdom of Eswatini on the global map for its successes in disease control,” Matsebula concluded, expressing hope for continued cooperation in advancing health initiatives.
