BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE — The country has not recorded any polio case since 1989, a milestone health officials say reflects decades of sustained immunisation efforts and expanding protection against more than 18 vaccine preventable diseases.
This was revealed during the launch of the National Immunization Strategy, Social and Behaviour Change Strategy, and Effective Vaccine Management Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) held on 4 May 2026.
Expanded Programme on Immunization manager Xolisiwe Dlamini said the country was certified polio free in 2020, marking international recognition of long standing progress in disease prevention. “We are now preventing about 18 or more vaccine preventable diseases,” Dlamini said.
She said the immunisation schedule has expanded over the years to include vaccines such as measles rubella, rotavirus and pneumococcal vaccines, which have significantly reduced severe illness and deaths among children.
Dlamini noted that despite progress, access gaps still exist in some communities. World Health Organization representative Dr Susan Tembo said while the progress is commendable, immunisation gaps remain a concern across Africa.
She commended the country’s leadership in vaccine financing, saying the decision to fully fund and procure vaccines reflects strong national ownership, sustainability and commitment to child health. She said it demonstrates long term investment in protecting future generations.
Principal Secretary Khanyakwezwe Mabuza said government remains committed to sustaining immunisation gains through continued investment in vaccine delivery systems.
He said full domestic financing of vaccines reflects strong national ownership of public health priorities. The newly introduced strategies are expected to improve vaccine supply systems, strengthen disease surveillance and ensure wider access to life saving immunisation services across communities.
