BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI– Childhood cancer survivors have been celebrated as champions and living testimonies of hope, with their journeys inspiring children still undergoing treatment to believe in a future beyond cancer.
The message was delivered during Childhood Cancer Survivors Day 2026, hosted by the Eswatini Childhood Cancer Foundation at The George Hotel , where Her Royal Highness Inkhosikati Make LaNkhambule, the Foundation’s Patron, was represented by Princess Buhlebetive.
The celebration brought together childhood cancer survivors, children undergoing treatment, parents, caregivers, healthcare workers, Government representatives and partners to recognise the strength and resilience of children affected by cancer.
CANCER SURVIVORS ENCOURAGED TO DREAM BOLDLY
The Patron encouraged survivors to embrace their experiences and use their journeys to inspire other children facing cancer. She said survivors should not be ashamed of their stories, noting that their visible and invisible scars are reminders of the battles they have overcome.
She also said their presence at this celebration should give hope to children still undergoing treatment, showing them that survivorship is possible. “To every child still fighting, we are cheering for you. We look forward to celebrating your survivorship with you one day,” she said.
CHILDREN URGED TO FOLLOW TREATMENT
Children still undergoing treatment were reminded that they are not alone and that the nation continues to support them. She encouraged them to follow the advice of their doctors and nurses and adhere to the treatment procedures provided to them.
The cancer journey can be difficult and lengthy, with children experiencing moments of tiredness and fear, but urged them to remain hopeful. She said their stories are still being written and that their future should not be defined by their diagnosis.
CHILDREN’S DREAMS MUST BE PROTECTED
The Patron said childhood cancer should not take away children’s opportunity to dream about their futures. She highlighted that behind the number of children diagnosed with cancer are young people who hope to attend school and become doctors, teachers, engineers, artists, leaders and parents.
She said ensuring that children have the opportunity to pursue these dreams requires continued efforts to improve awareness, early recognition, treatment and support. Parents and caregivers were also recognised for walking alongside their children throughout the cancer journey.
She acknowledged the sacrifices made by families, including hospital visits, waiting, fear and continued emotional support. She also said the love and commitment of parents and caregivers remain an important part of the children’s journey. Healthcare workers and other stakeholders were also recognised for their role in supporting children and families affected by cancer.
The Patron reaffirmed her commitment to initiatives that promote childhood cancer awareness, early detection, access to appropriate treatment, survivorship care and the well-being of children and their families.
CHILDHOOD CANCER REQUIRES COLLECTIVE ACTION
The Patron praised the Eswatini Childhood Cancer Foundation for its work in providing support to children affected by cancer. She called on all sectors of society to support efforts aimed at addressing childhood cancer, describing it as a national concern requiring collective responsibility.
Government, the private sector, healthcare workers, schools, parents, families and friends of the Kingdom of Eswatini were identified as key stakeholders in supporting children affected by cancer.
She said continued work in awareness, early recognition, access to quality and affordable care, treatment and survivorship support would help ensure that childhood cancer does not prevent children from reaching their full potential.
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