…Chief Nursing Officer Calls for Stronger Global Solidarity and Health Equity
BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE– The Kingdom of Eswatini has voiced strong support for the proposed global pandemic agreement currently under discussion at the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA79) in Geneva, Switzerland.
Speaking during the assembly, Chief Nursing Officer Nkosinathi Nkwanyana said the agreement is critical in strengthening international cooperation and ensuring better preparedness for future global health emergencies.
“To secure national peace, we are building a collective global plan for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response,” Nkwanyana said.
He explained that the agreement seeks to strengthen:
- Global solidarity
- International cooperation
- Pandemic prevention systems
- Emergency preparedness
- Rapid response mechanisms
Lessons Learned From COVID-19
Nkwanyana said the COVID-19 pandemic exposed major weaknesses within global healthcare systems and highlighted the need for stronger international coordination.
“The agreement encourages political mutual cooperation, complements the amended International Health Regulations of 2005, and reflects the collective global plan for a swifter recovery and rapid response to pandemics,” he said.
According to Nkwanyana, the proposed agreement directly addresses gaps involving:
- Pandemic response coordination
- Preventive healthcare systems
- Global governance
- Public health preparedness
He stressed that future pandemics require stronger collective action among nations.
One Health Approach Emphasised
The Chief Nursing Officer also highlighted the importance of advancing the:
- One Health approach
which promotes coordination between:
- Human health
- Animal health
- Environmental health systems
“The pandemic agreement directly addresses these gaps by focusing on strengthening response and preventive measures while advancing the One Health approach,” Nkwanyana said.
Global health experts increasingly believe integrated health systems are essential in preventing future disease outbreaks.
Eswatini Supports Africa Group Position
Nkwanyana said Eswatini strongly aligns itself with the position of the:
- African Group at the World Health Organization
particularly regarding the need for:
- Equity
- International solidarity
- Fair access to healthcare resources
- Effective pandemic response systems
“We therefore align strongly with the Africa Group position on the continent’s needs and the importance of ensuring adequate and effective responses,” he said.
Readiness For Signature And Ratification
Eswatini also expressed readiness to support:
- Signature
- Ratification
- Implementation
of the proposed agreement.
Nkwanyana said the agreement would become an important tool for:
- International cooperation
- Health system resilience
- Pandemic preparedness
- Reducing inequalities
“The conclusion of this agreement is an essential tool for international solidarity, reducing inequalities, strengthening resilience and enabling effective pandemic responses,” he said.
He added that Eswatini remains committed to strengthening cooperation with global partners in protecting public health.
WHA79 Continues In Geneva
The 79th World Health Assembly has brought together ministers, health experts and development partners from around the world to discuss:
- Pandemic preparedness
- Universal health coverage
- Health financing
- Disease prevention
- Climate and health resilience
The proposed pandemic agreement remains one of the most closely watched discussions at the assembly as countries seek stronger protection against future global health crises.
(Courtesy Pic)
