BY NELIWE NGUBANE (INTERN)
MATSAPHA– Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula has commended MTN Eswatini for fulfilling its pledge to support the country’s healthcare sector through a E160 000 investment in Eswatini Hospice at Home, describing the initiative as a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can strengthen health service delivery.
The minister made the remarks during the official handover of a refurbished inpatient unit, upgraded water system and six new patient beds at Eswatini Hospice at Home, delivered through MTN Eswatini’s annual 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign.
Addressing guests at the ceremony, Matsebula said he was encouraged to see the commitments made during the launch of the 2026 Y’ello Care campaign being translated into tangible improvements for healthcare facilities and patients.
“The memories of the launch of the 2026 MTN 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign are still fresh in my mind, as I recall the promises made by MTN Eswatini regarding assistance that would be extended to the health sector. It is wonderful to see such promises coming to fruition,” said Matsebula.
The minister noted that the project aligns with MTN Eswatini’s 2026 Y’ello Care theme, “Expanding Equitable Health for Every Community,” while simultaneously addressing key healthcare priorities identified by the Ministry of Health.
He said the investment would strengthen hospice and community-based healthcare services, which play a vital role in caring for terminally ill patients and supporting families during challenging times.
Matsebula highlighted the important contribution made by Eswatini Hospice at Home in providing home-based and inpatient care for patients living with life-limiting illnesses, particularly cancer.
He described the organisation as a valuable partner to government in ensuring that quality healthcare services reach some of the country’s most vulnerable citizens.
“The work of Eswatini Hospice at Home is very critical because they are able to reach those who are terminally ill at home. This model of care is commendable and ensures that our health sector leaves no one behind in the provision of quality health services,” he said.
The minister further praised the hospice’s referral system, which works closely with hospitals across the country to ensure patients can transition from hospital treatment to home-based care while maintaining comfort, dignity and quality of life.
According to Matsebula, healthcare is about more than medicine and treatment. He stressed that patients also require safe, supportive and dignified environments where they can receive care and spend time with their loved ones.
He said the refurbished facility would greatly improve the wellbeing of both patients and families who depend on the hospice’s services.
Matsebula also paid tribute to the board, management and caregivers of Eswatini Hospice at Home for their unwavering dedication despite the operational and financial challenges often faced by palliative care institutions.
Recognising the growing demand for specialised palliative care services, the minister called on more companies, donors and development partners to support the hospice and other healthcare initiatives across the country.
“Improving health outcomes is a shared responsibility, one that government cannot carry on its own. Partners such as MTN Eswatini have shown up to be part of this responsibility,” he said.
He concluded by urging all stakeholders to protect and preserve the facility so that it can continue providing compassionate care and support to generations of Emaswati in need.
The MTN-funded project is expected to have a lasting impact on patients receiving palliative care, while reinforcing the importance of collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society in improving healthcare outcomes across Eswatini.
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