LOBAMBA – The 2026/27 national budget commits E3.24 billion to the Ministry of Health, reinforcing Government’s determination to build a resilient and prevention-focused healthcare system.
Presenting the budget, Minister Neal Rijkenberg acknowledged global funding uncertainties but assured the nation of continuity in essential services. “We have engaged directly with US Government representatives and I am pleased to report that an MOU has been signed to ensure continuity of HIV support,” he said.
A significant reform is the operationalisation of the new Eswatini Medical Supplies Agency, transforming the Central Medical Stores into a semi-autonomous institution. E40 million has been allocated to modernise procurement and logistics systems, reduce stock-outs, and improve medicine availability.
“Our goal is that no LiSwati should travel more than 8 kilometres to a health facility,” the Minister stated. He emphasised that every clinic built and every health worker deployed is aimed at achieving equitable access.
Eswatini continues to lead globally in HIV innovation. The country has introduced Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable requiring only two doses annually. “This transforms adherence and dramatically improves health outcomes,” the Minister said.
Additionally, four mobile cancer screening units have been deployed nationwide, bringing early detection services directly to communities. The Phalala Fund’s debt has also been reduced to E30 million, strengthening sustainability.
The Minister concluded, “This is our commitment to a health system that prevents, heals and loves its people back to wholeness.”
