BY THEMBA ZWANE
NTFONJENI– Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has praised the dedication and leadership of Dr Masitsela Mhlanga, Head of Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR), for his significant contribution to strengthening Eswatini’s emergency healthcare services.
The Prime Minister made the remarks in the presence of His Majesty King Mswati III during a visit to Ntfonjeni Inkhundla, where the King toured and officially opened the Esicancweni Setemphilo health facility. The project forms part of ongoing national efforts to improve emergency medical services and healthcare access in communities.
Speaking during the ceremony, Dlamini reflected on the important role played by Dr Mhlanga in developing the country’s emergency response capacity over the past decade.
“This makes me look back in time and remember that there has been your servant, Your Majesty, the EPR Head, Dr Masitsela Mhlanga,” the Prime Minister said. “He has diligently served and led the EPR department for more than 10 years. If it was not for his passion and commitment, we would not be where we are today.”
Dlamini noted that Dr Mhlanga had worked strategically with the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF) over the years, helping to strengthen partnerships that have improved emergency response services in the country.
The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to His Majesty for making time to visit Ntfonjeni Inkhundla to tour and officially open the facility, describing the project as a significant national development initiative.
“This is a major national development project that truly deserves to be officially opened by His Majesty the King,” he said.
He added that the project reflects the vision behind the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund, a royal initiative that recognises the critical role played by emergency responders, including paramedics commonly known as bomasheshisa.
During the visit, His Majesty King Mswati III toured the newly developed Esicancweni Setemphilo health facility, a project valued at E15 million. The development includes the Mshinande Clinic, which features the country’s first Road Crash Stabilisation Centre at regional level in Mshingishingini under Ntfonjeni Inkhundla.
The clinic itself was constructed at a cost of E2 million. His Majesty noted that the first phase of the project has been completed, while preparations are underway for the second phase to commence in the near future.
In addition to the clinic, the King was informed that six advanced ambulances equipped with modern medical technology had been procured at a cost of E13 million through the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund. These ambulances are designed to provide rapid and specialised care for accident victims and other emergency cases.
During the tour, His Majesty had the opportunity to explore the facility and observe the modern medical equipment installed at the clinic. Healthcare workers also demonstrated how patients are treated using specialised training equipment designed to simulate emergency situations.
The demonstration showed how medical teams respond to accident victims and stabilise patients before further treatment, highlighting the importance of rapid intervention during emergencies.
After the tour, the King expressed satisfaction with the facility and the equipment available to support emergency medical services.
“There is equipment that can monitor heartbeat, blood pressure and other important functions, as well as advanced tools used in surgical procedures,” His Majesty said.
The new health centre, constructed with the support of SMVAF, is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare services for residents of Ntfonjeni and surrounding communities in the northern Hhohho region.
When delivering his remarks, the King emphasised that while such facilities are essential for saving lives, efforts to prevent accidents remain equally important.
Despite this, he expressed confidence that the facility would provide quality care to those who need medical assistance.
“When one visits this health facility, it should feel similar to visiting your parents, where you will be well taken care of,” said the King. “With all the medical equipment available, I am confident that residents will receive the medical care they need.”
His Majesty also encouraged healthcare professionals to remain dedicated to their work of saving lives and serving communities across the country.
During the event, the King officially christened the facility as the Esicancweni Setemphilo Medical Centre and commended medical practitioners nationwide for their continued commitment to improving healthcare in Eswatini.
The new centre is expected to play a vital role in strengthening emergency medical services and improving healthcare delivery for communities in the region.
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