BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LOBAMBA– Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula has announced that the monthly allowance for Health Motivators (Bagcugcuteli), the country’s community health workers, will rise from E350 to E500 before the end of March 2026.
The stipend is expected to further increase to E700 in the next financial year as the government strengthens support for healthcare delivery in rural communities.
The announcement was made on 10 March 2026 during the House of Assembly Portfolio Committee budget debate for the Ministry of Health, chaired by Sandile Nxumalo.
Responding to concerns raised by Members of Parliament, Minister Matsebula confirmed that the government already has a policy guiding the operations of Bagcugcuteli within the national health system. The increase reflects the vital role these workers play in bridging communities with health facilities.
Several MPs raised issues regarding the low stipends previously paid to Bagcugcuteli and the need to improve their working conditions.
Nokuthula Dlamini from Maseyisini Inkhundla commended the Ministry for reducing maternal mortality rates and for training 190 Bagcugcuteli. She also inquired whether the ministry’s budget would allow the hiring of additional health workers and whether requests submitted to the Ministry of Public Service had been addressed. Dlamini further called for the rehabilitation of nurses’ houses at Hlathikhulu and Mankayane Government Hospitals.
Masiphula Mamba from Khubutha Inkhundla noted that some Bagcugcuteli earn as little as E300, despite their critical contribution to community healthcare. He suggested expediting ministry processes to ensure faster service delivery and also raised governance concerns regarding the Christian Medical University, emphasising that the Ministry of Health should be represented on its council. Chairperson Sandile Nxumalo assured MPs that these matters were being addressed.
Mduduzi Dlamini from Nkomiyahlaba Inkhundla highlighted the challenge of nurses leaving the country for employment abroad and urged the introduction of mechanisms to retain professionals trained using government resources. He also requested an increase in Bagcugcuteli stipends and the construction of a clinic in his constituency to reduce the long distances residents currently travel to access healthcare. Additionally, Dlamini called for improvements to the 977 emergency service to enhance coverage in rural areas.
Jabulani Mkhari Simelane from Methula Inkhundla expressed gratitude for ministry projects improving the lives of residents, including the completion of four nurses’ houses and a nearly completed clinic. He also sought clarity on the origins of the Bagcugcuteli programme and whether there is a director responsible for their welfare.
Bonginkosi Dube from Phondo Inkhundla praised the ministry for purchasing an ambulance for his constituency but recommended introducing a mobile clinic to assist residents who travel long distances for care. He further raised concerns about water shortages in Khabonina, where some residents share water sources with animals.
Zanele Mashaba from Lomahasha Inkhundla supported the call for mobile clinics, noting that they could help reduce congestion at Mbabane Government Hospital.
The debate underscored the critical role of Bagcugcuteli in supporting healthcare delivery in communities. Lawmakers called for improved allowances, resources, and infrastructure to ensure these frontline health workers can continue providing vital services effectively.
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(Courtesy Pic)
