BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini today welcomed a delegation from the End Malaria Fund (EMF) at the Private and Cabinet Office, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the fight against malaria.
The delegation was led by Acting Chairperson Ms. Fikile Nkosi, accompanied by notable Board Members, including legendary South African singer and global malaria advocate Ms. Yvonne Chaka Chaka Mhinga, who serves as the Global Ambassador for the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), and Ms. Futhi Tembe, CEO of the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF).
Fundraising Gala to Support Malaria Eradication
During the meeting, the EMF Board briefed the Prime Minister on the upcoming End Malaria Fund Gala Dinner, scheduled for May 9, 2025, at Happy Valley Hotel, where the organization aims to raise E800,000 to support malaria elimination efforts.
The Board expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their commitment, particularly for signing the “Zero Malaria Starts With Me” Pledge and making a government donation of E70,000 to the fund in December 2024.
Malaria Elimination Scorecard and Parliamentary Engagement
One of the key initiatives discussed was the introduction of a Malaria Elimination Scorecard, a tool that monitors progress in malaria control across the country. The scorecard highlights key performance indicators and identifies gaps in Tinkhundla (local governance constituencies) that may require additional support.
The Board also outlined plans to engage Eswatini’s parliamentarians in sensitization efforts, ensuring they understand the malaria elimination progress and their role in championing necessary interventions.
Collaboration on GBV and Trauma Support
During the meeting, the delegation introduced Ms. Cynthia Prime, CEO of Saving Orphans through Healthcare and Outreach (SOHO), an organization dedicated to supporting victims of gender-based violence (GBV). SOHO collaborates with the Eswatini Action Group Against Abuse (ESWAGAA) to provide trauma counseling and capacity-building interventions.
Government’s Commitment
Prime Minister Dlamini reaffirmed the government’s support for the End Malaria Fund and the upcoming fundraising dinner, pledging continued collaboration to achieve Eswatini’s goal of malaria elimination.
A Step Closer to Malaria-Free Eswatini
Eswatini has long been recognized as a leader in malaria elimination efforts within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. With sustained government support, strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, the country continues to make significant strides toward a malaria-free future.
