By NOXOLO DLAMINI
PIGGS PEAK – The Kingdom of Eswatini has assumed the chairmanship of the East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC) Advisory Committee, marking a leadership transition from the Republic of Mauritius aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and improving health outcomes across member states.
The handover took place on Thursday, 8 October 2026, when Mauritius’ Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Mr Parmanand Mawah, handed over the chairmanship to Eswatini’s Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr Khanyakwezwe Mabuza.
The transition positions Eswatini to lead the Advisory Committee as regional health stakeholders continue to work together to advance cooperation and address shared health priorities across the region.
The handover was witnessed by Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Grace Magembe; Uganda’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Diana Atwine; and the Director General of ECSA-HC, Dr Ntuli A. Kapologwe.
ECSA-HC expressed its appreciation to Mr Mawah and the Government of Mauritius for their leadership during their tenure, while welcoming Mr Mabuza and the Kingdom of Eswatini into the new leadership role.
The leadership transition highlights the importance of collaboration among member states in strengthening regional health systems and pursuing better health outcomes for their populations.
Through the Advisory Committee, Eswatini will take on a leadership responsibility within the regional health cooperation framework, providing an opportunity to contribute to collective efforts aimed at advancing health priorities across ECSA-HC member states.
The handover marks a new chapter in Eswatini’s participation in regional health leadership, with continued cooperation expected to remain central to the community’s work.
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