By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – The Cabinet’s donation of E70,000 will be a critical boost in addressing the challenges posed by malaria during the current season.
End Malaria Fund (EMF) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Steven Mthethwa revealed this during an interview on Eswatini TV’s Kusile Breakfast Show on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.
Mthethwa highlighted that the summer season brings an increased prevalence of malaria, which places a significant burden on communities in need of assistance.
Mthethwa expressed gratitude for the timely donation, acknowledging its importance in meeting the growing number of applications for help from those affected by malaria.
He explained that the E70,000, donated under the leadership of Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, would go towards providing much-needed support to individuals suffering from malaria.
“This donation has come at the right time. The demand for assistance has grown significantly during this malaria season, and the funds will help us respond effectively to those in need,” Mthethwa stated.
Mthethwa emphasised the importance of partnerships in combating the disease. He noted that while EMF receives support from various organisations and individuals, there remains a need for greater contributions to meet the demand.
The End Malaria Fund (EMF) works closely with the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP), which implements strategies to fight malaria using the funds raised by the EMF.
Zulisile Mthimkhulu, Acting Programme Manager of NMCP, praised the collaboration between the two entities, highlighting the transparency and accountability in how funds are utilised. She confirmed that EMF’s support had been instrumental in achieving their goals.
“We work well with EMF and we are always informed about the resources being mobilised. This transparency is key in ensuring the success of the malaria elimination programme,” Mthimkhulu noted.
Mthimkhulu further revealed that the NMCP aims to eliminate malaria in Eswatini by 2025 and achieve official certification by 2028. She expressed optimism, citing the effective collaboration and ongoing support from EMF and other partners.
She added that EMF also assists in maintaining the NMCP’s fleet of vehicles, which are essential for reaching remote communities where help is urgently needed.
While the Cabinet’s contribution is a welcome boost, EMF Chairperson Thandile Nxumalo noted that the organisation still requires significant financial support to achieve its objectives. Nxumalo revealed that EMF needs E65 million to fully fund its operations, yet they have only raised E12 million to date.
“The fight against malaria requires collective effort. While we have made progress, there is still a long way to go to secure the resources we need,” Nxumalo stated.
Mthethwa urged continued contributions from the public and private sectors, highlighting the importance of sustained funding in eradicating malaria.
“With everyone’s support, we can achieve a malaria-free Eswatini. This is not just a health issue but a national priority,” he concluded.
The donation and ongoing partnerships demonstrate a united effort to combat malaria, bringing hope that the country will soon achieve its ambitious elimination goals.
