BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – Government has announced a major healthcare initiative to combat the rising tide of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), particularly cancer.
In a statement today, Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini revealed plans to establish radiotherapy services at Manzini Government Hospital, marking a significant milestone in the country’s healthcare development.
Dlamini highlighted alarming statistics from the country’s health surveillance system, which records over 1 000 new cancer diagnoses annually, including breast, cervical, and prostate cancers.
These figures highlight the urgency of improving Eswatini’s cancer treatment infrastructure.
Since 2015, government has implemented cancer screening and chemotherapy services, which have enhanced early detection rates.
However, the lack of advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, particularly radiotherapy, remains a critical gap in addressing the disease effectively.
Government’s plan to roll out radiotherapy services is a vital step in providing a comprehensive cancer treatment centre at Manzini Government Hospital. Radiotherapy, a cornerstone of modern cancer treatment, is essential for managing various types of cancer.
Acknowledging the complexity of establishing such a facility, the premier stated that this endeavour would require specialized expertise and significant time to develop. Despite these challenges, the government is committed to addressing this critical healthcare need.
To support this initiative, government has developed the Nuclear and Radiation Regulatory Bill. Drafted with input from international partners and private sector stakeholders, the bill aims to regulate the use of nuclear technology in the country. This legislation, currently under parliamentary review, emphasizes adherence to international safety standards, ensuring the safe use of radiotherapy technologies.
The lack of radiotherapy services in Eswatini has forced many patients to seek treatment abroad, often at prohibitive costs.
Establishing local radiotherapy facilities will not only reduce these financial burdens but also provide families with the opportunity to support their loved ones during treatment without the need for international travel.
Dlamini appealed to private sector entities to collaborate with the government in providing radiotherapy services. Such partnerships, he noted, are crucial to ensuring universal access to cancer treatment and expanding healthcare options for all Emaswati.
Government’s commitment to advancing cancer care reflects a broader vision for universal healthcare access. By fostering public-private partnerships and adhering to international safety standards, Eswatini aims to position itself as a leader in addressing NCDs in the region.
The PM expressed hope that these efforts would allow families to provide closer support during treatment, creating a more compassionate and effective healthcare environment.
As Eswatini embarks on this transformative healthcare initiative, the radiotherapy services at Manzini Government Hospital represent a beacon of hope for thousands of cancer patients. With legislative support, international collaboration, and private sector involvement, the country is poised to make significant strides in combating cancer and improving the overall health of its citizens.
